Introduction:

In an extraordinary move, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the Surat Diamond Bourse (SDB), proudly claiming its title as the “world’s largest workspace.” This ambitious venture marks a futuristic shift, aiming to relocate the bustling diamond trading scene from Mumbai to the dynamic hub of Gujarat’s Surat. Let’s delve into the exclusive details shared by Manit Rastogi and Sonali Rastogi, Founding Partners at Morphogenesis and Principal Architects of this monumental project.

A Workspace of Unprecedented Scale

Morphogenesis, the architectural genius behind the Surat Diamond Bourse, has crafted not just an office complex but a marvel that stands as the largest single-office building globally. The project is a bold exemplification of high-density office architecture, surpassing even the most stringent global sustainability benchmarks.

Designing for Functionality and Flow

The heart of the design lies in its functionality and seamless flow. Drawing inspiration from Surat’s socio-cultural context, the building embraces a fishbone system of delivery. This innovative design ensures efficient circulation, allowing users to move effortlessly from a central circulation spine into each of the nine office blocks. Walkable corridors, reminiscent of an airport terminal, unite the building horizontally and vertically, promoting easy movement within the trading time constraints.

Sustainable Construction and Mitigating Challenges

Surat’s topography presented unique challenges, with flood mitigation being a paramount concern. The architects tackled this by raising the plinth and creating a rainwater harvesting trench around the periphery. The construction blends conventional RCC with post-tensioned slabs for the nine towers, showcasing a harmonious marriage of modern and traditional building techniques.

Benefits for Diamond Merchants and Surat’s Transformation

Surat, known as India’s diamond hub, witnessed a transformation with the birth of the Surat Diamond Bourse. Catering to the world’s largest community of diamond traders, this architectural marvel eliminates the need for long commutes and provides a single-function office tailored to the unique needs of the diamond trade. It is a catalyst for unprecedented socio-economic development, turning Surat into a global business district.

Eco-Friendly Features and Green Credentials

The Surat Diamond Bourse doesn’t just stand out in scale; it shines in its eco-friendly features. The design incorporates open spaces, natural ventilation, and energy-efficient cooling systems. The self-shading tower blocks, along with gardens strategically placed for natural air filtration, contribute to maintaining a pleasant microclimate. The building has earned the prestigious Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) Platinum rating, underscoring its commitment to environmental sustainability.

Conclusion:

The Surat Diamond Bourse emerges not just as a workspace but as a symbol of India’s architectural prowess and commitment to a sustainable future. The collaborative efforts of Morphogenesis, Manit Rastogi, and Sonali Rastogi have given birth to a landmark that redefines workspaces on a global scale. As Surat steps into a new era, the Surat Diamond Bourse stands tall, a testament to innovation, functionality, and environmental responsibility. This is not just a building; it’s a dream realized, shaping the future of workspaces worldwide.