Lumiere, designed by Polka House, reimagines the contemporary workspace — seamlessly blending natural light, organic materials, and artistic details to set a new benchmark for urban office design.
Situated in the heart of Mumbai’s bustling Nariman Point, Lumiere defines contemporary office design, envisioned by the creative mind of Niharika Saraf of Polka House. This 3,000 sq. ft. workspace defies the typical constraints of a compact office, creating a contemporary environment that blends functionality, aesthetics, and comfort. The office sets a new benchmark for urban workspaces by infusing open spaces, warm materials, and nature-inspired elements.
The design philosophy behind Lumiere revolves around the idea of a “warm shell”, a space that immediately feels inviting, modern, and alive. As you step into the office, you are welcomed by lush greenery that not only enhances the air quality but also establishes a visual connection with nature. These green accents, artfully arranged throughout the entrance and common areas, evoke a sense of tranquillity and well-being, setting the tone for a workspace that prioritises both comfort and inspiration. Complementing the greenery are chic boucle chairs, their soft textures inviting employees and visitors alike to sink into a moment of relaxation. The careful juxtaposition of organic elements with contemporary design creates an environment that feels both professional and personal, urging occupants to embrace the space as their own.
The walls of Lumiere are adorned with art that tells stories and sparks conversations. One striking wall features Claymen faces, each depicting a unique expression or emotion, serving as a subtle reminder of the diverse human experiences that shape a workplace. Another wall bursts with vibrant, colourful 3D paper art frames, symbolizing the intricacies of the human mind and its varied perspectives. This artwork injects a lively energy into the office, adding depth and character while breaking the monotony of traditional office decor.
A pivotal feature of Lumiere is the use of Colortek’s beige texture paint, which enhances the interplay of light and shadow throughout the office. This textured finish lends depth to the flat walls, creating an environment that feels dynamic rather than static. The walls are paired with oak veneers from Arte Di Lusso, which add warmth and luxury to the overall palette. This balance of tactile surfaces plays a significant role in unifying the space, with the textured paint and oak veneer providing both contrast and cohesion. By integrating these high-quality materials, the design elevates the overall aesthetic while also ensuring that the office remains a comfortable and engaging place to work.
Natural light plays a starring role in the office’s layout, thanks to large windows and the strategic use of glass partitions. Unlike traditional straight-line partitions, the designers opted for elegantly curved glass walls, introducing an element of surprise and elegance. These curves soften the visual edges of the office, creating fluid transitions between spaces while ensuring that daylight flows uninterrupted across the floor plan. The result is an office bathed in natural light, amplifying the open, airy atmosphere that defines Lumiere. To enhance this experience, Hatsu’s director’s hanging lights are featured prominently throughout the office, adding a layer of sophistication that complements the organic design language.
The two conference rooms at Lumiere each boast distinct identities, demonstrating the thoughtful integration of design and functionality. One of the rooms showcases a laminated veneer tabletop with intricately hand-carved legs, set against the backdrop of a striking gradient green bookshelf that not only serves as a storage solution but also as a visually compelling focal point. This shelving unit, with its bold hues, adds a pop of colour to the otherwise neutral palette, making the space feel dynamic and lively. The ceiling features stretched fabric, which diffuses light evenly across the room, creating a soft, ambient glow that encourages open dialogue and creativity.
The second conference room takes a more geometric approach, featuring a diamond-shaped veneer ceiling. The criss-crossing lights create an intricate pattern, lending the space an avantgarde feel that inspires innovation and collaboration. The backdrop of this room is clad in stone veneer, providing a raw, natural texture that contrasts beautifully with the polished elements of the design. In both rooms, the conference tables and chairs have been meticulously curated to avoid the standard office look, incorporating handpicked, fabric-clad chairs that resonate with the overall design language. This commitment to detail not only enhances the visual appeal of the rooms but also ensures that they are functional and comfortable for long meetings and brainstorming sessions.
The director’s cabin reflects a sophisticated and edgy aesthetic, with a bold colour palette dominated by rich black accents. The furniture, including a plush, chunky sofa, is designed for both comfort and authority, making it the perfect space for conducting important meetings or engaging in deep conversations. In one corner of the room stands a large chess king sculpture, a striking piece of art that symbolises power, strategy, and leadership. This presence speaks to the office’s underlying narrative of innovation and control while adding a personal, artistic touch that invites contemplation and discussion. The cabin’s design masterfully balances functionality with a powerful visual statement, embodying the essence of a modern leadership space.
The workspace itself is adorned with plants, ensuring that the office remains oxygen-rich and full of life. This deliberate incorporation of greenery not only enhances the environment but also reflects the company’s commitment to promoting well-being and sustainability. By embracing natural elements, innovative materials, and thoughtful lighting, this office space breaks away from conventional norms and delivers a fresh, inspiring environment for its occupants. Whether it’s the bold veneer ceilings, the playfulness of curved glass partitions, or the attention to personalised spaces, Lumiere exemplifies the future of workplace design—dynamic, open, and distinctly human. This forward-thinking office, designed by Niharika Saraf and her team at Polka House, redefines industry standards, proving that design can elevate not just the look of a space but also the wellbeing and productivity of those who inhabit it.
