Professional Designers OR Petty Contractors?

“Good buildings come from good people, and all problems are solved by good design.”- Stephen Gardiner

Among the million dreams of a person, owning a house is the special one. Constructing, renovating, or doing up the interiors of a house is not as simple as it may seem on papers.

Indian Real Estate Industry is one of the Most Unorganised Sectors in the country, and its input material has the largest varieties as compared to any industry. Budgeting, costing, analysis are all impossible for a non-professional. A minor fault in design or construction can cost you a fortune or worries of a lifetime. This Industry doesn’t work as per books. Enforcing the Contract is a gigantic task. Instead of hiring professional designers or architects, many go for some local, petty contractors. Apart from progressive cost escalation & quality mismatch, post completion service is always missing. Some of the reasons why one should prefer professional and qualified designers over petty contractors are elucidated. Have a look!

1. Magnum-Opus Designs: A Professional designer plans the design not as per your or her perception, but as per your ideas and needs, best suited to your requirements, with Professional mindset. Your likes, thoughts, dreams, lifestyle, space, and budget, all need to be intricately & beautifully meshed to get the Zing you have been looking for and desired. For the believers of Vastu Shastra, it is suitably incorporated. Most importantly, every plan they make is Unique & not a Copy – Paste.
2. Cost Optimization: Biggest folly in thinking is that the Designers are Costly and Local Contractors cheap. A professional designer would help you select the best-in-class, long-lasting material at a reasonable price that won’t be a burden on your budget. They add real value in the long run. In contrast, contractors would persuade you to purchase material from their known dealers at a higher price and have their share in profits. The material may deteriorate in a few months, making you spend more than you save by hiring them over professionals. As an example, you can have easier to handle Teak finish furniture, without teak wood and almost at half or one third the cost. A lay man would never be able to distinguish it from Teak.
3. Better Functionality of the Space: Ernst Neufert in his book, Architect’s Data, gives out the sizing and spacing of and in between 2 objects. Using such data precludes the problem of congested or claustrophobic spaces being created. Only a professional designer understands the space and its functionality as well. Contractors’ perceptions can never do justice to the space. A designer can make even a tiny apartment looks spacious while a contractor can make a large area asphyxiated. We could create a Lawyer’s office of 150 sft which had his chamber, meeting space, 3 men workstation and pantry, without compromising on the visual open feel.

4. Better Understanding of Construction Material: Architects and designers are aware of the materials’ quality, properties, and their effect on human behavior. They suggest only those materials that have stood the test of time and weather. They help in optimizing the cost and generally save you up to 15% of the overall budget by advising you to select the ideal material which a local contractor can’t.

5. Better Durability and Long-lasting Aesthetics: No matter how experienced the local contractors are, they lack understanding of the durability, service life of the material, and chromatics. They might end up ruining the house’s ambiance and stunning appearance. Designers, on the other hand, are wizards for enhancing the aesthetic of your dream house.

6. Design Meshing & Syncing. One often sees a costly space being loaded with exclusive & expensive material, but all out of sync, lacking symmetry or comfort. Alignment of furniture and civil works is vital. You can’t have a Bar of 1 mtr expanse with 4 Bar stools. The type and color of Lights depend on the usage. These are beyond the realms of uneducated or architecturally uninitiated.

7. Multiple Windows. Most of us have experienced the frustrations while dealing with the Govt bodies. One of the reasons is that there are multiple agencies, and each would blame the other for delays and cost escalation. You get the same feeling when several Petty Contractors are involved in your Interiors or construction. A One Stop Shop always is great for Peace of Mind, while being professional and answerable.

These are some of the crucial reasons to avoid local contractors, the list is quite exhaustive. Designing cost is a tiny fraction of the overall construction cost. So why opt for untrained local contractors and burn your hard-earned money.

At Colonelz, we have a team of highly trained and experienced designers that could draft your dream designs as per your requirements. Visit our website for more information and get the best-in-class designing and architectural services from us.

www.colonelz.com

Grow Your Business with Feng Shui

Money begets money. For a business to be successful, apart from money, Luck is important. It gets aided by an aura which helps create prosperity. It is extremely important to have a suitable positive vibrance at the business place, for the Businessmen, the employees, and the clients. One of the ways of achieving this is by the use of Feng Shui; a 3000-year-old Chinese art and science meaning “wind and water”. It is very effective in spreading and promote positive vibes. There are certain must have Feng Shui essentials for a business’ success.

For Luck

• The Laughing Buddha

In Feng Shui, it is known as the “Buddha of Happiness”. This is said to be the luckiest charm for business. The Buddha loves to see peoples’ worries go away. It brings wealth, joy and abundance in the place where it is kept. If you wish to display one, go for the one with a large belly to rub. Rubbing the belly is said to fulfil your wishes. The larger the belly, the more auspicious the Buddha. For efficient work environment and wealth growth, place the Laughing Buddha on your office desk or in the Southeast direction of your workplace.

• Ox Statue

In the Chinese zodiac, the OX is one of the most loved signs. It is said to possess the following qualities which attract good luck to a business:

• Faithfulness
• Honesty
• Responsibility
• Profound loyalty
• Justice
• Reliability
• Strength

If you plan to place an Ox Statue in your business place, place it on a bed of coins in the Northwest section of your office.

For Wealth

• Money Frog

A lot of Feng Shui experts claim that a money frog significantly attracts wealth. It is available in both, gold and porcelain. However, it is advised to go for the gold one. The statue of this frog is depicted as sitting on coins with one coin in its mouth. Display it on the Northern side of your business space or near the entrance. Make sure it always faces inward.

• Bagua

A Bagua is a Chinese religious motif denoting the balance of yin and yang. Hanging a Bagua above your entrance door signifies the flow of positive energy. It is octagonal in shape and indicates eight essential areas of our lives like health, family, wealth, abundance, marriage and love to name a few. It has a mirror in the centre which acts as a dream catcher. The mirror traps and absorbs any negative energy while the octagon spreads positive energy.

For Prosperity

• Lucky Cat

A lot of business outlets have the statue of this lucky cat smiling and waving at customers. You can put it at a suitable place, maybe near the entrance or near the cashier.

• Incense Sticks

These drive away evil spirits and negative energy. A wide variety of incense sticks are available. However, businessmen generally tend to pick the red ones for attracting prosperity, luck and wealth.

Feng Shui will definitely fetch you good results over time. They aide Business growth. Our Team at Colonelz, design your business place in a manner that it is Feng Shui friendly. Visit our website to know more about the expertise we hold in providing a client need specific architecture.

Mindful Makeover: Tips To Turn Your Space Into A Blissful Zen De

In these erratic &testing times, adequately coupled with stressful modern lifestyle make it a challenge for most of us to find tranquility and peace. To assuage the same, we thought of bringing to you some tips and tricks from our interior experts to help you turn your home into a bubble of bliss and peace.

So, let’s dive in! 

1. A Calming Palette 

Color inherently has mood-altering properties. However, research in the realm of color psychology has also found that the feelings elicited by particular colors are deeply rooted in one’s personal choice and experiences. This is exactly why our color experts often conduct in-depth discussions with our clients to find the perfect color for their space that reflects their personality and induces a feeling of calm and happiness.

However, a general rule of thumb when creating a calm space is to go for soft hues, neutral tones, or earthy colors inspired by nature. Some of our fave colors for creating a calming mood are –

• White
• Taupe
• Powder blue
• Lilac
• Dusty rose.

2. Comforting Coziness 

Focus on incorporating softness into your space. Since we live in a tropical climate, thick and fuzzy fabrics like faux fur can feel very warm and uncomfortable. Instead, invest in plush textured rugs, cloudy cushions and pillows, and soft seating arrangements.

3. Minimalism FTW! 

Clutter causes anxiety, coupled with Stress, and depression; is a scientifically proven fact.  One of the most effective ways to avoid clutterin your space is to take a minimal approach. Do away with unnecessary accessories and décor items from your space. De-clutter the ancient treasure chest that is your closet. Invest in furniture with modern, chic, sleek designs featuring clean lines.

Be smart about accessories and invest in those décor items that look great and also serve a purpose. For example, artsy sculptured planters that act as an art piece and a pot for your house plants at the same time.

4. Electronics at Bay

It is best to avoid electronics in an area where you want to create a relaxing mood. By electronics we especially mean television sets and computers. However, if you are trying to give your living room a makeover or do not have enough space to place your television set elsewhere, then consider keeping them concealed.

5. Aromatherapy to Invoke Your Senses 

Soothing scents have been used traditionally in almost every culture to soothe and heal the mind and body. You can create a very spa-like relaxing ambiance with scented candles. Want to go for a more eco-friendly way? Try potpourri. However, nothing beats the beauty of a simple, compact humidifier with a few drops of natural essence oil to scent your entire room.

Some of the best calming scents are – 

• Lavender
• Sandalwood
• Rosemary
• Jasmine

6. Soft Glow &Some Halo! 

Bright lights are great to keep sleep at bay and keep you active. But, they are not conducive for relaxation. Research shows that blue light plays a deep role in relaxing us, unlike white light. Keep the intensity of your lights soft and ambient.

Want to give your home a professional calming makeover? We are just a call away. Invest in your mental health. Invest in your home. The returns will amaze you.

+91-8447500754

www.colonelz.com

Biophilic Architecture: 7 Ways to Welcome Nature Into Your Space

The term “Biophilia” was coined by social psychologist and philosopher, Erich Fromm to describe the innate human desire to commune and associate with nature and other forms of life. Biophilic architecture or design incorporates elements inspired by nature, natural materials, patterns, and phenomenon to connect residents with nature. 

The approach has been found to have a profound psychological and physiological impact on us that is manifested through – 

• Higher productivity and well-being at the workplace 
• Quicker healing 
• Dramatic reduction in stress and associated illnesses 
• Improved cognitive functions

Categories of Biophilic Designs 

There are 3 distinct approaches that designers adopt to execute biophilic designs. 

1. Nature in Space: Elements such as plants, animals, water, air, light, natural ecosystem, and sensorial stimuli are incorporated directly into the space. It is the corporeal presence of nature in a space. 
2. Natural analogies: symbolic references and indirect evocation of nature are introduced into the space for a sensorial experience and psychological stimulation. Furniture, décor, artwork, textiles, and arrangements emulate colors, textures, shapes, sequences, and patterns found in nature.
3. Nature of the Space: designers mimic the spatial configuration found in nature like expansive spaces, a mild sense of risk (like stepping stones), and a refuge that offers protection and sensorial relief. 

7 simple ways to incorporate biophilic design elements into your home 

1. A gushing water element 

It could either be a small fountain or a colossal pool with an artificial waterfall, including a water element into your space. It acts as visual, tactual, and auditory stimuli to bring residents close to nature. An aquarium is also a highly effective way to incorporate nature into a space. 

Avoid stagnant water! They are a breeding ground for infectious bloodsuckers – mosquitoes. And, encourages the growth of algae which is a pain to clean. 

2. Flood of natural light 

Apart from being the most potent source of vitamin D, sunlight also has a significant impact on our circadian rhythm (which is under severe threat during this digital age). Make sure your home has large windows that flood your space with natural sunlight. Use classic sheer curtains or smart shades that do not block sunlight. 

3. Play up your furniture 

Incorporating furniture that has organic, fluid shapes is not just chic and modern but also brings us close to nature. Make sure that your furniture is made of natural materials like bamboo or wood and, shows off the material in its most natural form, without much processing or treatments. 

4. Hexagonal tiles 

Apart from being a raging trend in 2021, hexagonal tiles mimic the shape of honeycombs and are a famed representative of the Fibonacci sequence and golden ratio. The Fibonacci sequence is found abundantly in nature. 

Some of the other patterns worth your attention are – 

• Stripes 
• Cracks 
• Waves 
• Spirals 
• Tessellations

5. Ventilation is vital 

Ensure that your home or office has impeccable mechanical ventilation. Efficient fenestration calls for our architecture experts. The right window placement is the key to temperature control and cheaper energy bills. 

6. A wild playlist 

It won’t be a struggle to include the sounds of rustling leaves or a gushing stream into your surroundings. It takes one YouTube search to transcend you into the middle of a thriving forest. Play is twice or thrice a day if playing it every 20 minutes is not feasible for you. 

7. Greenify 

Last but not the least, plants are the simplest way to create the feel of nature in your home. Apart from using low-maintenance indoor plants such as areca palm, snake plant, syngonium, spider plant, and like, make an effort to include plants that attract bees and butterflies such as marigold, hibiscus, oregano, geranium, and like. 

Conclusion

As we welcome urbanization, we move further away from nature. Biophilic architecture is a way to bridge the gap between nature and humans. For the ultimate biophilic makeover, contact Colonelz right away. 

Decoding Transition-Style Interior: A Marriage Of Traditions And Trends

What is transitional-style interior design?

Interior design evolves with time as taste and preferences change. And, the transitional style of interior pays homage to the evolution of design. Simply put, the transitional style of interiors marries the old-world charm of traditional design with the chicness of modern aesthetics. It incorporates classic elements with trendier ones to give you the best of both worlds. At the very core of this style lies an impeccable sense of balance that fuses old with new, elaborate traditional designs with sleek modern styles, and opulence with sustainability for a curated look and feel.

Here are some key elements to keep in mind when one is striving to create this style in their own space.

1. Color Palette 

Transitional style can be a hard style to pull off without making things chaotic, especially when you do it without the guidance of professionals. So, the easiest way to keep that from happening is to choose a neutral color palette. Paint the walls in classic yet fresh shades of white, taupe, beige, and grey. Feeling a bit more experimental? Try rich, dark shades of charcoal black, midnight blue, burgundy, or khaki green.

Always remember that darker shades work best in a larger space. It can make a space look smaller than it is, but the mood it creates will make you fall in love with it. If diving straight into dark shade seems intimidating for you, then you can try it on just one accent wall. Although it won’t create the same effect, it is the safest bet for beginners.

2. Accents 

An accent is placed in a way to draw the eye and make it the focal point of attention. In a transitional style, an accent is a game-changer. We feel antiques work a lot better than contemporary style when it comes to accents. Although you can choose anything to be your accent piece, some of the fave pieces that we use most often are –

• Vintage mirrors frames.
• A Victorian-inspired chandelier.
• An antique dresser or table.
• A classic deep-seated sofa set.

3. Fabric 

Fabric lends texture, color, and feel to any space. In a transitional design, they play one of the most significant roles. Some of the classic material that can be used to exude an old charm feel is velvet and leather. On the contrary, natural, solid-colored fabric such as linen and cotton or even satin for that matter impart a more modern feel. It is a very good idea to juxtapose sleek furniture with traditional fabrics. Like a minimal sofa upholstered in rich velvet.

4. Accessories 

When it comes to transitional style, we suggest you let your accents and furniture do most of the talking. Take a minimal approach with accessories to keep things looking clean and organized instead of a frenzied mess of accessories. This is where you should be incorporating your contemporary sense of minimalism. However, a dramatic sculpture or vase, or planter can elevate the appeal of your space if executed with restraint.

Want to give your home a stunning transitional appeal? Our designers and experts are just a call away. And, for more transitional interior design ideas follow us on our integral handle @colonelzconstruction.

Visit www.colonelz.com NOW!

Tips To Give Your Home A Productive Makeover

Our homes have turned into a lot more than refuge within the past year owing to the ongoing testing times. Most of us have not only acclimated to the once novel concept of work-from-home but have also got a little bored.

So, we are here with superb ideas to give your home office a quick and quirky makeover that not only feels fresh and exciting but also boosts your productivity. Whether you have a palatial home office or have turned the space under your staircase into your conference, you could incorporate these ideas effortlessly.

1. Welcome greenery

A famous study conducted in the United Kingdom reveals that welcoming plants into the workspace can increase productivity by up to 15%! Plants are also a healthy and economical way to purify the air of your home which adds to your well-being (which is more significant than ever at this point).

Some of the beginner-friendly plants that are recommended by NASA for air purification are –

• Spider plant
• Snake plant
• Areca palm
• Boston fern
• Rubber plant

If you are short of space then go the Pinterest way and decorate your desk space with a compact and super-cute succulent. Plants also have a calming effect on your mind and reduce stress significantly.

2. Natural Light

Natural sunlight is not just the best source of Vitamin D that keeps your teeth and bones strong but also has a significant impact on mental health and wellness. Sunlight boosts moods and keeps anxiety and sleepiness at bay, thereby, enhancing productivity dramatically.

So, make sure your home office has large windows that flood the space with warm sunshine. Make sure to hang lightweight, curtains that filter out the harshness of the summer sun without blocking it completely.

But, what about those for whom a window is not plausible? We have a nifty solution for you too! Invest in high-quality artificial white light that emits short wavelengths of blue light to imitate natural sunshine. It is sure to keep you alerts throughout the day. 

3. Use vertical space smartly

Create the illusion of space by keeping the floor of your room as to free as possible. Wondering where to stack your million files and books? Well, what’s that wall for! You can either invest in wall-mounted shelves or turn wire baskets into DIY shelves.

When it comes to your desk, be smart about it and go for a wall-mounted desk. Speaking of a desk, make sure to keep it free from clutter.

4. A statement wall

Keep your workspace from looking boring. It is a simple way to invigorate your mood and give you a sense of joy amidst the gloomy times. While an accent wall featuring bright colors and interesting texture is a classic, we are all for experimenting with a new idea. Instead of the run-of-the-mill wall color, have it painted in black chalk paint or a pastel shade depending on your preference, and use it as your cool to-do board. Stay organized and stylish at the same time.

Conclusion

Want to give your home office a professional makeover? The Colonelz team is just a call away! It is not just an investment for your home but also an investment for your career and productivity.

Visit www.colonelz.com NOW!

Choosing Colors for Home Using Vastu

Vastu Shastra can be extremely useful during the construction of a new house. Despite some misconceptions, Vastu is not beyond reason. These construction guidelines from the Indian subcontinent can aid you with several decisions. Choosing the right colors for the house is one of them. Since colors have the power to dictate our moods, they are not a trivial factor during construction activities.

How to choose the best colors for your home

Since the Vastu system puts a heavy emphasis on directions, decisions about color are also influenced by this factor. For instance, the color Light-Blue is well suited for the North-East direction. Furthermore, these directional considerations aren’t baseless. To explain this point further, let’s consider an example. The North-West direction is closely linked with air. Thus, the colors best suited there are Light-Grey and Cream. Planetary considerations also come into play when you think of how to select the right color for your home. To give you an idea of how these planetary considerations work, ponder over this example. As Jupiter represents the North-East direction, the colors that best enhance that part of the house are shades of Yellow and Cream.

If the laws detailed above are painting a murky picture in your mind, do not give hope. The following segment of our discussions will make it crystal clear how to select the right color for your home.

Guidelines about different parts of the house

When you know how to choose the best colors for your home, you can also synchronize your vision with the architecture companies in Gurgaon. Here’s a room-by-room layout that you should follow:-

• The Kitchen:- Make sure that the architectural plan of your house places the kitchen in the South-East corner of the house. Red and Orange are the best-suited colors for this direction.
• The Hall-Area:- The directions ideal for the hall area are North-East and North-West. The colors that pertain to these directions are White and Yellow.
• The Guest-Room:- It is important to curate a peaceful and hospitable aura for guest-rooms. Vastu dictates that White is a great color for this area of the house.
• The Master Bedroom:- For newly-wed couples, the color of the master bedroom is of heavy significance. It is usually built in the South-West direction. Thereby, the Blue is a great selection here.
• The Bathroom:- Bathrooms demand a sense of tranquility to them. Thus, the color White is the viable choice for these sections of the property. Even Vastu Shastra confirms the same since bathrooms occupy the North-West direction.
• Exterior Frame of the House:- The external color of the house is just as important as the internal colors. This decision mainly pertains to variables linked with the owner of the house. Yet, Off-White, Orange, and Yellowish-White are some great universal choices.

The takeaway is that Vastu can be a great tool in your arsenal during the construction or renovation of your house. It can help you enjoy a pleasant and lively stay at your home. Thus, make sure that you tie-up well in advance with architecture companies in Gurgaon to avoid any last-minute quips.

Know Your Lender For Your Shelter!

“A house is not a home unless it contains food and fire for the mind as well as the body.”

Benjamin Franklin

We have all dreamy of a perfect home where we’d like to experience life with our loved ones. Big or small we all have our own ideas of a dream home. But sadly, not always can we afford the home we dream of and that’s where the banks come in; helping us finance the home we want. But, do they actually help us? Let me help you find the best loan for YOU!

Costs related to a Home loan:

1. Processing Fees– This is the first prominent fee one needs to pay with the loan application. The fees varies from 0.25% to 1% of the loan amount and is non-refundable i.e. you have to pay it irrespective of whether your loan gets sanctioned or not.
2. Legal Advisory Fees- The fees you bear to get the property’s papers verified and scrutinized by a legal advisory or a lawyer and prepare a report on the basis of which bank will decide whether the property can be financed or not. This fee is also non-refundable and needs to be paid with the loan application.
3. Stamp Paper Cost-This is a nominal expense of about INR 300 which is required to buy legal stamp papers once the loan has been approved and write down legal home loan agreement between you and the bank.
4. Cost of Home Insurance Premium- Insuring your home is a recommended option, which some banks have as a mandatory requirement. This insures your home against any natural calamity and other threats which can potentially destroy your property.
5. Cost of Home LOAN Insurance Premium– Home loan insurance is different from home insurance. The first insures you against the home loan liability; the second i.e. home insurance, insures your property. Home loan insurance can also act as your guarantor,in case your credit report is NOT good and the bank wants you to provide a guarantee to support your home loan. This is a big expense if you opt-in for it. However, it is recommended to cover the Buyer’s dependents, in case of his demise.
6. Service Tax on Bank Fees– Service tax is another amount that is charged by banks on the amount that you pay them as fees.

Right Loan Provider  – Factors to Consider:- Six factors for selecting right home loan provider:

6. Processing speed– It should take not more than 10-15 days for a loan to be processed and additional 3-5 days for the loan amount to be disbursed.
7. Lending criterion– Different banks have different lending criterion for the estimation of the loan amount and in general the approval of a loan. For eg- age, job profile, credit history, etc of the borrower.
8. Repayment of loan–  Banks have terms and conditions for the repayment of the loan and also for an early part payment / repayment of loan. You must refer to the terms related to the settlement/ foreclosing the outstanding amount in detail before finalizing a lender. As per RBI Directions, a bank can NOT charge Foreclosure Charges.
9. Cost of loan– Banks have certain other charges related to loans, irrespective of the loan being sanctioned. Refer to the beginning of the article for a detailed explanation.
10. Fixed vs. floating rates– In Floating Rates, Rate of Interest keeps changing, where as in Fixed, it is Constant. In Hybrid, the rate is Fixed / Floating for a period & changes thereafter. As a thumb rule, if the loan period ranges between 2 to 5 years, going with a fixed interest rate is better, and Floating rates are more suited for long term loans. You can even go for a hybrid loan, which enables the borrower to enjoy the best of both fixed and floating interest rates.
11. Hidden charges– Hidden charges is something that tends to prick the pocket of borrowers the most. Thus, while narrowing down the options, it is advisable to compare the processing fee, down payment, valuation fees, prepayment costs and other charges levied by different lenders.

     In case of any further queries, we would love to hear from you.

     Leave us a message on –Facebook; Blog; email– biraj@colonelz.com

Reference Link:- https://colonelzbricklogic.blogspot.com/2015/02/houseis-not-home-unless-it-contains.html

Green Buildings – Indian Perspective

Deteriorating Environmental conditions pan India entails we MUST focus more on Environment Friendly Buildings & Infra development. We are a country of 1.5 billion people and counting , in which 32% of population lives in urban areas.India’s  increase in commercial energy consumption in the last four decades has been 700% and is growing. Energy consumption in India will grow upto 3 times of current consumption by 2030. There is a shortage of about 250 million liters of water per day, if we only consider the major Indian cities. The crisis is approaching, lest we stem it. Green building construction presents a solution for sustainable growth.

What is Green Building? Green building, or sustainable design, is the practice of increasing the efficiency with which buildings and their sites use energy, water, and materials, while reducing the negative impacts of the building on human health and the environment over the entire life cycle of the building. Green building concepts extend beyond the walls of buildings and should  include siting, design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation, and demolition; as also, community and land use planning as well.

There are numerous ways to make your buildings more Eco friendly. We list a few below

Sustainable Site Selection:

Easy availability of public transport/ Mass Transit system and conveniences helps cut down energy consumption for transportation. Rehabilitation of sites damaged by environmental contamination is a better option than any new piece of land where large amount of energy and resource is needed to make the land worthy of building on, thus saving large amount of energy.

It is very important to protect the existing Flora & Fauna, the soil and natural features. Avoid hard paving on the site to preserve top soil and ease rain water harvesting. There should be minimum storm water runoff.

Sustainable Building Components / Material

Material which can be recycled, have low toxicity, nil / low harmful air emissions, as also, have a long shelf life are better. Planning the Building’s structure and dimension can reduce the construction costs. Construction and demolition material can be reused and recycled for landfills. Proper planning for managing materials through deconstruction, demolition and construction is done.

Using renewable materials like bamboo flooring, wool carpets, straw board, cotton ball insulation (made from denim scrap) is good. Locally available materials must be given priority; Saves transportation costs. Alternative materials that can be generated from waste with lesser energy is used over conventional building materials, e.g. alternative materials for timber, like MDF board, Mica Laminates and Veneers on composite boards should be used instead of natural timber.

Industrial waste based bricks and blocks, aerated lightweight BPC concrete blocks, can be used for masonry structures and Fly ash, for bricks, outdoor paving and in concrete.

Solar Energy

Indian Govt is giving numerous subsidies, including sharing of Solar energy generated in the Grid so that excess energy generated during day can be bartered for energy at night, thus being economically efficient, as also environment friendly.

Water Efficiency

Installation of water efficient or low flow equipment in kitchens and bathrooms to reduce water consumption is very important. Newly designed Vapor generating taps save 80% water while being as efficient.

• Incorporating waste water management technologies like dual plumbing for using recycled water in toilet flushing or using water conserving fixtures such as low flow shower heads, self closing nozzles on hoses, water closets with dual flush options.
• Use of Micro irrigation techniques at sites instead of high pressure sprayers.
• Re circulation system for centralized hot water distribution.
• For landscaping purpose, local plants and trees are used as they consume less water.
• Provisions for reusing and recycling water are made to ensure efficient water management.
• Using treated waste water, non potable water for site irrigation. Raw sewage can be recycled using aquatic plants like duckweed and water hyacinth to produce clean water suitable for re-use in irrigation and industry.
• Integrating Rain water harvesting system in building design to ensure maximum possible utilization of rain water.

1billion square foot building area has been certified as green by leading green building rating system LEED-INDIA.

There are two established Green Building rating system in India.

• LEED-INDIA
• GRIHA

Some Green Building Projects in India

• Suzlon Energy Limited – Pune
• Biodiversity Conservation India – Bangalore
• Olympia Technology Park – Chennai
• ITC Green Centre – Gurgaon
• The Druk White Lotus Schoo l- Ladakh
• Doon School –  Dehradun
• Raintree Hotels – Chennai
• Nokia – Gurgaon
• Rajiv Gandhi International Airport – Hyderabad
• Palais Royale at Worli – Mumbai

Reference Link: https://colonelzbricklogic.blogspot.com/2017/02/green-buildings-indian-perspective.html

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Taking / Giving Property on Rent? Our Advise—– Be Wise

Hiring a place may seem very simple for the Landlord, as also the Tenant. Sometimes these become very unnerving if you miss out on some important aspects that need to be considered before moving into the house / letting out your house. Taking the paperwork lightly may have serious implications for both the parties. Apart from checking out the exteriors and interiors, the legal check on various aspects is equally essential.

Tenants Points to be considered:

• Check property ownership documents. Conveyance Deed is the best proof, however, Electricity / Water / Gas Bills are also acceptable.
• If a Broker is involved, his registration should be checked.
• Brokerage to be paid to the broker varies from 15 days rental to 1 month in North India. It could be more at places. Must negotiate it.
• Brokerage paid is part of expenses & you can use it for tax purposes. So preferably, pay in cheque.
• You must inspect the house and see the house in detail before finalizing. Bring out the repairs required, like; toilet flushes, electricity points, modification required for ACs, Doors & windows, etc.
• Photograph broken or dilapidated fixtures / fittings & exchange it on mail with owner to avoid problems while handing back.
• Major & Minor Repairs. Major repairs due to fair wear-and-tear are done by the owner. In case of negligence, cost is borne by the tenants. All minor repairs are the responsibility of the tenants.
• You must read through the RWA by-laws of the society to avoid inconvenience / regrets later.
• Get a clear idea about the amenities near / around the property, to include public transport, neighborhood gentry, proximity to essential markets, schools, hospitals, etc.
• Check the safety aspects, especially for working / single women. You could get the crime rate in the area on the.
• Find out the age of the property. If possible, speak to the previous tenants or the neighbors.
• For Fully furnished apartments, normally a Lock-in period is required, as expenses are incurred on furnishing the house. Must check the deed in detail, including the rent increase percentage after expiry of contract. It must be mentioned in the Rental Agreement.
• Lease Deed/ Rental Agreement – A rent agreement or a lease deed is a legal document that contains the details of the rights of a tenant to occupy certain property for a fixed period of time in return of the rent paid by her to the property owner. This agreement is ideally drafted before the tenant occupies that place. Necessary inclusions of the rental agreement or the Lease Deed would be;
• Include start and end date of the tenancy.
• Monthly Rent amount payable and the date of payment- should generally be 10^th of the month, especially for salaried persons, to avoid cheque bounce.
• Security deposit amount to be paid. This is refundable & should be mentioned in the Deed.
• Service/maintenance charges. Is it included in the Rent or over & above the Rent.
• Responsibility of payment for repair and maintenance.
• Conditions of termination of Agreement.
• Notice period for vacating the house.
• Provisions of electricity, water and power facility & their payment procedure.

Property Owner / Landlord. Rented Property generates additional income by way of lease or rent. But if leased to a wrong person, could cause numerous problems. It requires substantial care and a lot of aspects have to be kept in mind while selecting the right paying guests (PG) or purchasers on rent (rent party):

• Must check financial capability and background of the prospective tenant (Second party). (Too good offers are dangerous. If the going rental is Rs X and you get offer of Rs 2X, reject it).
• Avoid renting out to small businesses as they may not be able to service the monthly payouts.
• Police verification of the prospective tenant is a must. This process helps in background check of the tenant. Not doing this is a punishable offence under Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code.
• Take the permanent address proof of the prospective tenant.
• Take the bank statement of the bank from which the payment cheques are made.
• Take her PAN No and check her CIBIL score to ascertain whether the prospect respects her commitments.
• Meet the tenants one on one, interact with them and get to know them. Don’t leave it on the broker – his sole interest is Brokerage.
• Services of Registered Brokers only must be used. If he charges GST (currently 18%), he should deposit the GST & give details of it to you.
• It is imperative for the landowner to ask the appointed broker to provide the agency’s registration number, valid signature and agency seal/ stamp on every page of the ‘Lease and License’ accord so that the broker can be held accountable for any legal disputes in future.
• If possible, rent your property to Tenants with families. If renting to Bachelors, obtain “Comfort Letter” from the Employer of the prospective tenant & do a call check with the Company’s HR / Admin.
• Lease Deed/ Rental Agreement. A rent agreement or a lease deed is a legal document that contains the details of the rights of a tenant to occupy certain property for a fixed period of time in return of the rent paid by him to the property owner. This agreement must be drafted before the tenant occupies the place. Necessary inclusions of the rental agreement or the Lease Deed would be;
• If the period of time is 12 months or less, registration is not compulsory. If more than 12 months, you are legally bound to register which costs a minuscule amount (nearly 1% of the total rent value, depending on the local laws), making it a very authentic legal document.
• Clear mention of Dates; to and from.
• Notice period required from both sides; owner and tenant.
• Rental value and the security deposit made by the tenant and any advance payments done.
• The annual rent is generally 2-3% of the capital value and differs according to the location and amenities provided.
• Date of monthly rent payment (usually around 10^th of each month, especially for salaried tenants).
• Annual increase in Rent Clause.
• Mode of payment; ECS mandate or Post dated cheques. AVOID CASH TRANSACTIONS.
• Clear mention of the size of the property and the number of rooms, bathrooms, kitchen, etc.

Wishing you a Happy Letting out / in. You may make lifelong friends with your Tenants / Landlord. Happy Safe homes is what is important.

Reference Link: https://colonelzbricklogic.blogspot.com/2015/10/taking-giving-property-on-rent-our.html

How To Look For An Architectural Agency?

We all are aware of the fact that nowadays, technology is being so advanced. In every field, we will find modifications which have been brought to us by technology. If you are also among those who are looking forward to such changes, then you can consider the architectural field.

The architectural field is one of those fields which are being one of the requirements when you are looking forward to availing the construction services. If you are not available with architecture companies that it will become difficult for you to pass the map of your location and also you will not be able to design it well.

If you are among those who are looking forward to designing their ambiance and want to contact with the best architecture agency, then you must get sure about few requirements. If you are not sure about all these requirements, it will become difficult for you to contact the architectural companies efficiently.

Things to get consider are:

• At the very first, you must get sure that the architecture companies you are choosing must be available with professionals. Professionals will help you to know whether you are appropriately availing the services or not.
• Budget is also being one of the first requirements when you are availing the services. If you are having a good but then it will be not a problem for you to avail the services that if you have a nominal budget, then you must look for the same.
• Make sure architecture companies you are choosing are providing you with the services which will be accurate with the location and will also help you concerning the future as well. If the services you have availed are temporary and you are not constant with the same, then it will become difficult for you to maintain them.

If you are not sure where you can search for architecture agency, then you can visit the online platforms. Online platforms are all the detail available about these companies and will also help you to contact them. All the details which are necessary for you to contact them are available on the online platforms which will help you to get in touch with them quickly. Moreover, their website links are also available where you can raise your query, and they will get back to you within no time.

When you get sure that the services you are availing are the best and you are ready to invest in, then you are prepared to avail the services efficiently. Do not let yourself in any doubt. If you have any doubt, then clears them with the professionals in advance. Also if you find that you are not ok with the budget then also you can contact them freely. They will let you get available with services in your budget quickly.

What else you want when you are getting the best services within your budget and your dream will design according to your need. These services will not only help you in maintaining your private area but if you want you can also design your office area as well.