Two copper interior designs of Gujarat that received award(photos)

Two Gujarat based designs made of copper have secured IIID Copper Award 2011 which is instituted for the 1st time in India by Institute of Indian Interior Designers [IIID] and International Copper Promotion Council (India) [ICPCI] to recognize the contribution of Architects and Designers from all over India for the aesthetic use and application of Architect and to commemorat excellence and best design executed in Copper & its alloys (Brass / Bronze) in Architecture, Interior design, Product Design and Industrial Design for the year 2010-11.

Architect Saloni Shah from Surat was selected by an eminent panel of judges from a wide range of over 30 entries. She won an award of Rs. 2 lacs for the best design in Copper and its alloys. ‘Tree of Life’ is a 12 feet wide and 31 feet long mural made of brass, symbolising prosperity and happiness.

The representation of the theme is as an artistic image of a tropical tree adopting a soothing curvilinear geometry. The installation that begins from the wall and stretches across the ceiling in the Coffee and Tea lounge of a premium star property in Surat. It starts with a wide trunk at the base and then rises up and spreads out with branches that intermingle and entwine with each other creating drama and depth. Situated in a very eye catching location, visible from the moment you step into the hotel, as well as from the lobby, reception, restaurant entrances and elevator access.’

Saloni Shah said, “Copper and its alloys are wonderful materials to work with. I opted for brass for the ‘Tree of Life’ because of its rich, warn colour and texture. The award has recognised all the hard work that went into the conceptualisation, designing, making and installation of the ‘Tree of Life’.”

Architect Walter D’Souza from Ahmedabad received Honourable Mention: The entry was a sculpture of a swirling ribbon made with copper rods fabricated together. It has 7 halogen lights that throw light on to a table below. Each halogen is covered with a copper sphere to contain the light flow from the top. There are forms that resemble leaves made of copper which are snapped on to the surface. Additional copper spheres enhance the movement. The instillation is suspended from the ceiling with stainless steel cables.

Well-known amongst architects, copper is increasingly captivating designers who are rediscovering the properties of this precious material and using it in a wide range of applications: from lighting to building facades and not to mention furniture and accessories. Copper and brass are used widely in both; utility and decorative items. This striking rustic metal is not only eye-catching; but also has significant applications. IIID and ICPCI, two premier institutes in their respective field, have come together to recognize and promote excellence in design in copper and copper alloys, through an annual IIID Copper Award”.

The award function was celebrated over an evening of fervour, excitement and great entertainment in Mumbai.

The selection was made by an independent jury nominated by the IIID. The distinguished members of jury for the inaugural year were (in alphabetical order):

• Arzan Khambatta, Architect & Sculptor, Mumbai
• B.K. Chakravarthy, Product Designer & Faculty – IDC, IIT, Mumbai
• Pradyumna Vyas, Industrial Designer & Director, National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad;