December 3, 2020

MATERIAL AND SENSITIVITY OF SPACES with Arch. Saad Shah

A space is defined by the experience it creates the emotions that invigorates through its design. A well designed space is therefore one that evokes emotional sensibility. These sensory invigorating environments can be achieved through material exploration and experimentation.

A beautiful space is not just aesthetically pleasing but is one that evokes experiential sensitivity. This sensitivity is created through a thoughtful creation of textures and materials. With the wide variety of materials available it is a lot easier to want to apply everything in a space, however, the quality of a space can only be brought about by doing more with less.

The choice of material plays an important role in the type of atmospheres that are created. A space can either be quiet or be sensory loud. A meditation room can be devoid of all colors yet emit a sense of peace and calm with its limited use of materials. While a contrasting black and white patterned floor set against vibrant colors can depict a space that wants to be loud and speaks of grandeur.

The sensory quality of a space can be explained in the selection of finishes one chooses for a single material. A roughened surface of a stone will feel different to walk on than a polished one. An oak wooden floor can represent a feeling of lightness whereas rosewood can make the space seem grounded because of its dark tone.

Similarly, the size of the material used can further enhance or subdue how a space feels. A tile can be placed in a grid, or a pattern that is either geometric or abstract. It can be cut in different shapes and in varying proportions. The laying can be done uniformly or in a rhythmic repetition of different sizes. Each of these will add a unique character to its surroundings.

The endless possibilities present in the application of materials help in creating meaningful spaces. It plays an integral role in designing experiential atmospheres.

Ar. Saad Shah
Lead Architect – Identity Design Studio

House Renovation Ideas with Fahad Tariq Vohra.

Whether you’re looking for a new home or simply want to improve it for your own living, most homes could benefit from a bit of Home Renovation. That’s not to say that large-scale remodels are required, not at all. It all depends on your home situation and circumstances you could of course get as massively involved in home renovation as you want. But even small, strategic twists or fast DIY projects can make huge differences in the value of one’s Home.
A home that needs work can be a bargain to buy, but fixing it up can take a lot of time and money and turn into a huge project. The first impression of your house is your door. One shouldn’t underestimate the power of a front door. People make up their minds in the first seven seconds of entering a house. If you are unable to change the door completely and if your existing door is in a good condition then you should repaint your door. Your doors could also affect the lighting of your room, and you could benefit from this great technique.
The second most important impression of your house is your tiles. If you want to renovate your house consider the combination of the tiles with different textures. Sometimes changing the color of the tiles can completely change the feel of the floor. This is a popular topic for home renovation because it’s overlooked by many people. The thing about laying tile is that one of the easiest DIY project.
After living in our homes, we start to fail to notice the clutter that builds up around us, and our bedrooms are no exception. Take a few minutes or a couple of hours and clear it out. All of it. Even if it just means you transport said clutter into a style savvy container.

Arch. Fahad Tariq Vohra
Principle Architect – Fahad Tariq Vohra