The project for J&C was perceived in 2004, when my friend and I discussed on how to respect stone and its products so that the users especially the decision makers can make a correct choice.
The project was conceived as a stone world where every aspect of stone would be unfolded.
Phase I of the project is to serve the large loyal customer base that J&C has been serving for the past 40 years.
The mining arm, the creative products and the marketing arm all at one space generates operating comfort for J&C.
Apart from the administrative office, the project requirements were to display variety of stone slabs, articles and customized stone solutions .
The Site:
The distance of the site, initially when chosen in 2007, appeared more from the existing set up near Sarangpur and Sarkhej.
However with the pace of development, the idea has gained a rightful location. The 9000 sq. yds. of the plot ensures space for future expansion too.
The Design : Sense of Space
Natural stones have always been a passion for architects. Stone is nature’s wonderful creation. At Stone World, stone is celebrated in many ways.
We designed this project as a place where our clients would stock, manage, display and sale all their stone products from one single space (under one roof: one stop shop)
The gallery being the display of various stone products, tiles, slabs and value additions gives the viewer a touch and feel of stone in various finishes.
The overall effect translates into a sea of stones, shifting the experience from a simple display interior into a sense of place.
The design is functional and weaves an experience of exploration as one wanders through stocks of stone. The beauty of stone jalis is rediscovered.
Jalis allow us to relish space and light. It enriches us with the geometry and relieves us from boredom as it frames spaces from the inside as well as the outside.
The random geometry of stone generates a natural environment while guiding one through the showroom.
The ceiling is designed with wooden pelmets for direct and indirect light. The lighting is focused on task.
The walls receive an ordered arrangement and the partitioning is done to evoke visual pairing of wall and floor concepts.
Each space becomes a subset of the whole thereby allowing the designers and the client to enjoy the process of selection.
As one enters the gallery the perception of being in the space is tranquil, silent, it evokes curiosity and draws interest in selection.
The inorganic movement of the floor pattern gives a contrast to the orderly pattern of the display panels.
Being in the stone gallery, one is transcended into a stone world.
