Located within a conventional 1980s-style tropical residential structure inChennai, with its curves and verandahs, Decibel is a tranquil retail outlet spread across 4,000 square feet for the display and experience of sound systems. The treatment of the interior and landscape elements is atypical to a commercial interiors project. The design is a cross between a tastefully designed home and the functional aesthetic of an experience centre: the result is a warm, cosy space the users can relate to and feel comfortable in, while being enthralled by the audio and video systems.
Decibel, Chennai | Sound Wave Patterns
WeBe has taken the sound wave patterns found in decibels and abstracted them to arrive at a contemporary tessellated geometric aesthetic. This becomes their underlying core design value, adapted in multiple forms throughout the space. Metal perforated grills at the entry mimic the constant wave-like movement of sound, and cast long, intricate shadows into the sit-out area, changing through the day. We encounter a wooden jhula, comfortable chairs and a side table at the entry, subtly referencing the laid back treatment of deep front porches found in south Indian residences. Glimpses of the lounge can be seen from the sit-out through the wooden partition screens.
分贝,钦奈|温暖,Enclosed Spaces
The tessellated pattern is translated into the floor of the lounge space. Custom-designed grey cement tiled flooring (Athangudi) is complemented by the use of warm, wooden tones on the ceiling and walls. A simple, clean, veneered ceiling accentuated by the inclusion of cove and task lighting gently covers this space. The lounge transitions from the exterior to the interior, gradually leading the user further into the building. A custom-made grooved wooden main door with brass outlines, frames the entry into the inner sanctum.
分贝,钦奈|温暖,Enclosed Spaces
Decibel has two studio spaces where the customers are taken through a unique sensory and auditory journey. When asked about the design of these spaces, WeBe's Partner and Design head of the project, Karthikeyan says, “We have tried to retain many of the existing elements of the structure, reusing them wherever possible. We have also consciously constructed our design narrative around these elements. The ceiling in the studio had existing wooden rafters running the length of the room. We worked out our triangular geometry in the form of equidistant, alternating inclined veneered panels, adding lights at the junctions. These were inserted within the rafters themselves forming a wave-like pattern.”
