Project by
Priyanka Khanna & Rudraksh Charan
42MM Architecture
Founded in 2005, 42mm Architecture is a multidisciplinary design firm redefining spatial experiences through innovation, functionality, and sustainability. Known for its visionary approach, the studio transforms architecture, interiors, and master planning into cohesive narratives that blend aesthetics with purpose, creating iconic spaces that resonate with timeless elegance and modern relevance.
Amidst the culturally rich and historic fabric of Lucknow, this contemporary office stands as a refined statement of minimalism and quiet sophistication. Designed to contrast the city’s ornate architectural language, it captures the spirit of modernity while retaining an innate sense of rootedness. The design is guided by principles of restraint, clarity, and proportion—reflecting the global sensibilities of its well-travelled client and translating them into a timeless architectural experience.
Occupying a compact urban plot, the building unfolds across four levels, including a functional basement. The spatial planning prioritizes efficiency without compromising on elegance, ensuring that every inch serves a clear purpose. The layout is organized with thoughtful precision: the basement serves as a collaborative hub with a sunlit courtyard and a dedicated conference room, while the ground and first floors form the operational core, housing reception, cabins, meeting rooms, and the MD’s office. The second floor acts as a retreat—a relaxed recreational space designed for moments of pause and rejuvenation amidst a demanding workday.
Materiality defines the building’s essence. The façade, composed of exposed grey concrete offset by lush green landscape elements, creates a dialogue between rawness and refinement. The interplay of light and shadow enhances the building’s depth, while the restrained palette continues indoors through subtle greys, deep greens, and minimal finishes. Each surface is treated with care—painted walls and laminates are used thoughtfully to achieve a balance of warmth and modernity.
Inside, natural light becomes a crucial design element, illuminating spaces and accentuating textures. The overall ambience is calm yet powerful—marked by deliberate simplicity rather than excess. Every detail contributes to an atmosphere of timeless elegance and purpose.
What truly distinguishes this office is its quiet confidence. It doesn’t seek to impress through grandeur but through control and precision. Every line, void, and material choice conveys subtlety, dignity, and permanence—what one might call “old money” in architectural form.
In a city celebrated for its heritage, this office introduces a new kind of legacy—one defined not by ornamentation but by authenticity, restraint, and an unwavering commitment to thoughtful design. It stands as a symbol of contemporary relevance, seamlessly blending modern luxury with enduring grace.
