Bantala, West Bengal
Jiya Exim
Bridging social divides
“The best place to work is a place where you can be your best. This
is what Monica Khosla Bhargava has helped me achieve in my factory
and office. ”
- Vineet Agarwal,
Director Jiya Exim
Grime, waste, pollution. Factories typically don't conjure images of comfort, but the five-storeyed Jiya Exim Factory in the Calcutta Leather Complex defies that expectation. Director Vineet Agarwal aimed to provide equal comfort for blue-collar and white-collar employees, and we embraced this design challenge. The 48,000 sq.ft factory, dedicated to manufacturing leather bags and wallets, features 41,000 sq.ft production space on the lower floors and a 2,000 sq.ft showroom and office on the top floor. Collaborating with workers during the design process proved invaluable, enhancing efficiency and layout.
The design prioritises natural light and utilitarian aesthetics, with a unified colour palette across factory and office areas. The office includes dynamic elements like angled lighting and wood slats. The showroom, however, conveys a different design language, showcasing the contributions of the design and production teams. Notably, accessories for the showroom and reception, like cushions and planter covers, are crafted by the workers from production waste.
PROJECT STATUS
Built
Size
48000 sqft
Completion of the project
2019
Feature
Architectural & Builders Magazine 2022