India’s leading Project Management consultancy Colliers, has successfully handed over Microsoft’s India Development Center (IDC) facility at NCR that will be its premier hub for research and development in North India. Initiated in May 2020, the project spread over 1.5 lakh square feet was designated to house over 450+ workstations.
What was the basic concept behind the design and layout of the space; and what were the considerations taken into account while choosing the furniture, fixtures and materials of the project?
The facility was envisioned along the principals of intelligent workspace design with a flavor of the local. The layout design is inspired by the Taj- wherein the core is treated as an austere monument, river Yamuna flows on the left with organic corridors which is contrasted with char-bagh gardens depicted on the right of the core with regimental corridors.
The key inspiring design elements of white marble, stone inlay works, domes, rich tapestry, archways, jaalis were successfully translated to the project by utilizing modern technology, time/cost effective techniques and expertize of local artisans who were especially flown in from Rajasthan to deliver this project.
Abiding by Microsoft’s principles of sustainability, diversity and inclusivity; the project was designed as per LEED gold standards with respect to furniture, fixture and material selection for all three floors. Given the recent concerns regarding wellness tied to Indoor Air Quality, concentrated efforts were made to improve the IAQ of the space by providing MERV 14 Filters, Chemical filters for SOX/NOX treatment, Microbial filtration system, CO2 sensors and IAQ readers within facility. Grade A rating for accessibility was also achieved on the project by ensuring sensor-based fixtures, touch-free doors, braille signage and accessible furniture and furnishings amongst other provisions. The interior design complies with Microsoft sustainable & wellness commitment and LEED gold standard.
What were the major setbacks/challenges in this project?
The biggest challenge was to ensure that the project is delivered within the given timelines and budgeted costs notwithstanding the disruption caused due to a global pandemic. The project was in full-fledged execution mode when the lockdown halted all construction workflow and the material deliveries were adversely impacted. Ensuring that all contracted tier-2 vendors can deliver without any time/cost escalation was the biggest challenge that team ironed out in the two months of the lockdown via negotiations and proposing solutions among various stakeholders. Additionally, the team reached out to alternative suppliers, proposed prefabricated in-situ deliveries and reviewed design program via workshops with designers, contractors, and vendors to ensure the best quality product is achieved in minimum possible time.
In addition to supply chain disruptions, there was another challenge to ensure that there’s a safe environment to commence site works post lockdown. Team prepared a site resumption strategy in which we enhanced our HSE plan with several additional measures being taken. Accordingly, a framework was formulated to resume construction works at site. As a result, the construction staff, artisans, and laborers resumed works in Mid-June under strict regulatory protocols and mandatory provisions.
Recognizing the difficulties faced by the migrant workforce and on behalf of Microsoft, we facilitated many onsite programs such as organizing medical camps, distribution of free meals & wellness drinks (Kadha), distribution of blankets and construction tools under welfare and social outreach programs.
How was the synergy between various stakeholders (Client, PMC, other consultants) maintained?
Colliers provided strategies and framework in consultation with portfolio manager RE&F (Real Estate), GWS (Global workplace strategist) & Integrator (program manager) as a Tier 1 project manager on the assignment. Our team successfully liaised with multiple Tier 2 consultants, contractors and other stakeholders ensuring a seamless coordination and smooth delivery on the assignment covering all phases of the project.
There was a clear communication plan was with Responsibility Assigned Matrix (RAM) in place. Several brainstorming sessions were organised to define concept development and design brief to ensure that the concept design of Taj mahal are interpreted correctly and are modified for a modern and high-tech office space. Several value engineering options are presented with materials that can provide life cycle benefits. Care was taken that a fine balance between cost effective measures is achieved while not compromising on the life expectancy of the products as delivered.
The project is handed over within the timelines and as per quality expectations. The project has already created a buzz in the industry and interest in the media.
| Client Speaks
“Excellent controls on Budget and adhered to each milestone spend diligently. PM Team managed packages within budget and brought out relevant concerns timely with solution planning. Design concerns addressed with all partners and excellent collaboration with all stakeholder/partners/vendors. Over all Excellent Deliver of project within Budget, Timelines and Compliance.” |
Colliers Delivery Team: Ankesh Gupta, Bhawna Jaipaty, Saurabh Malik, Sanjay Kumar, Damodar Tiwari, Shehzad Hussain, Nikita Varma
