In the dynamic city of Surat, known primarily for its robust textile and diamond industries, a new wave of eco-conscious design is emerging. Green Lab, an innovative workspace designed by Design Work Group. This architectural project is not just a building; it stands as a symbol of sustainable urban development and a forward-thinking approach to environmental responsibility.
One of the core principles guiding Lab’s design is energy efficiency. The structure incorporates large windows and skylights that maximize natural daylight throughout the building, significantly reducing the need for artificial lighting. By optimizing sunlight and integrating carefully designed ventilation systems, Green Lab minimizes the reliance on energy-hungry HVAC systems, ensuring comfort with minimal environmental impact. This clever use of natural resources enhances the building’s sustainability, making it an energy-efficient landmark in the heart of Surat.
To further reduce its carbon footprint, Lab is equipped with solar panels on the rooftop, which generate a substantial portion of the facility’s energy requirements. These panels not only help reduce energy consumption but also underscore the building’s role in generating renewable power, reducing its dependence on conventional energy sources.
At the heart of Green Lab’s design philosophy is the concept of biophilic design, which aims to reconnect people with nature even in an urban setting. The building’s interior spaces are adorned with vertical gardens and an abundance of indoor plants. These green elements not only enhance air quality but also create a serene, stress-free environment that improves overall well-being and productivity for its occupants.
Natural materials such as wood and stone are used extensively throughout the building, adding warmth and texture while also reducing the environmental impact typically associated with synthetic materials. This integration of biophilic design ensures that Green Lab offers a calming, nature-infused workspace in the middle of Surat’s bustling urban landscape.
Water conservation plays a key role in the sustainable design of Green Lab. The building is equipped with a rainwater harvesting system, which collects and stores water for reuse in irrigation and landscaping, reducing the demand for municipal water supply. Additionally, a greywater recycling system has been implemented to treat and reuse water within the building, further cutting down on wastage. These water management systems not only lower the building’s overall water consumption but also serve as a model for future urban developments seeking to address water scarcity issues in India.
Green Lab by Design Work Group is more than just a workspace—it is a beacon for sustainable design and a blueprint for future buildings in urban India. By integrating eco-friendly technologies, biophilic design elements, and water-saving systems, the facility embodies the principles of modern architecture that prioritize environmental stewardship without sacrificing functionality or aesthetics.
This project highlights how sustainability and urban growth can coexist harmoniously, offering a glimpse into the future of green buildings in rapidly expanding cities like Surat. Green Lab serves as a testament to Design Work Group’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of architectural innovation, setting a new benchmark for eco-friendly construction.
For Surat, a city already known for its industrious spirit, Green Lab represents a step forward in demonstrating how environmental responsibility can be woven into the fabric of urban development. The facility not only minimizes its environmental footprint but also stands as an inspiration for future constructions in India and beyond, where growth and sustainability go hand in hand.
Fact sheet:
Firm Name: Design Work Group
Size: 9654 m2
Location: Surat, Gujarat, India
Landscape: Hemali Landscape Studio
Photo Credit: Vinay Panjwani & Dipen Tandel
