Akshay Lakhanpal, CEO of Space Matrix, is redefining the future of office design with a focus on sustainability and innovation. With over 20 years of experience, he emphasizes a human-centric approach that transforms workspaces into inspiring environments. In this interview, we explore his journey, the challenges of modern design, and the strategies shaping the workplaces of tomorrow.
Can you share a brief overview of your career journey in architecture and design? What has been the most defining moment in your career, and how has it influenced your design philosophy?
My journey in architecture and design has been both rewarding and transformative. With over 20 years of experience, I have had the privilege of working across corporate, retail, development, and institutional sectors. I began my career with a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from VNIT, Nagpur, and later pursued a post-graduate qualification in Project Management from the School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi.
I spent 12 years at Cushman & Wakefield, where I led various business divisions before taking on my current role as CEO, India of Space Matrix. The most defining moment of my career was when I transitioned to Space Matrix, where I embraced a design-led approach to problem-solving.
This moment shifted my perspective on architecture, leading me to prioritise how design can solve complex business challenges, not just deliver aesthetically pleasing spaces. This philosophy now drives my work—ensuring that every design serves a functional, emotional, and cultural purpose for the end user. It’s about creating spaces that inspire creativity, collaboration, and innovation.
What are some of the most significant challenges you’ve faced in designing office spaces, and what strategies do you think the industry should adopt to overcome them?
Designing office spaces is a complex task that requires a holistic approach, considering not only aesthetics but also the functional and psychological needs of the occupants. One of the biggest challenges we’ve encountered is the tendency to overlook the profound impact the physical environment has on human behaviour. Traditional design methods often prioritize aesthetics over functionality and fail to recognize the potential of workplace design to shape organizational culture and enhance employee productivity.
To address this challenge, we believe the industry needs to embrace a human-centric design approach. This involves putting people at the forefront of the design process, gathering real-world insights, and creating spaces that are not just functional but also inspiring. By prioritizing the needs and desires of employees, we can create workplaces that truly unlock human potential and foster a more engaged and productive workforce.
From a project delivery perspective, the industry has historically been fragmented and slow to adopt technology. This has led to inefficiencies and inconsistencies in the design and build process. To overcome this challenge, we’ve invested in a proprietary technology platform that integrates various aspects of workplace design and build, from procurement to project management. This platform not only improves efficiency but also ensures a seamless end-to-end experience for our clients.
Sustainability is another critical factor that will shape the future of office space design. With increasing focus on ESG goals, businesses are recognizing the importance of sustainable workplaces. We’ve taken a proactive approach by setting ambitious sustainability targets and implementing practices that reduce our environmental impact. Our Re:Source program, for example, focuses on recycling construction waste and promoting circular economy principles. By prioritizing sustainability, we can create spaces that are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also contribute to a more sustainable future.
How do you integrate sustainability and eco-friendly practices into your office design projects? Could you share some examples of successful implementations of these principles?
Sustainability is a core value at our company, and we integrate it into all aspects of our office design projects. We believe that creating sustainable spaces is not just about meeting regulations or achieving certifications; it’s about designing with a conscious philosophy that benefits clients, employees, and the environment.
One of the ways we incorporate sustainability is through careful material selection and procurement. We prioritize using eco-friendly materials with low environmental impact, such as recycled content or sustainably sourced materials. Additionally, we design spaces that optimize energy efficiency and reduce waste.
An example of our commitment to sustainability is our project for Gartner CoE in Gurgaon, which achieved the tag of having the cleanest air in India. This was made possible through careful consideration of indoor air quality, ventilation systems, and material selection. Another successful example is Rubrik’s office in Bangalore, which achieved the highest LEED Platinum rating in the country, demonstrating our ability to create spaces that meet stringent sustainability standards.
Beyond traditional sustainability practices, we also focus on incorporating sustainable art into our projects. Our goal is to create spaces that are not only functional but also inspiring and environmentally conscious. For example, Akamai’s Bangalore office features a bespoke installation crafted from demolition waste, while Epicor’s Bangalore office showcases artwork made from repurposed materials. These artistic elements not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the spaces but also serve as a reminder of our commitment to sustainability.
We also recognize the importance of responsible waste management. Through our Re: Source program, we’ve taken proactive steps to reduce construction waste and promote circular economy principles. Our pilot project demonstrated the feasibility of integrating circular economy practices into construction and demolition waste management, resulting in significant reductions in landfill waste and carbon emissions.
By incorporating sustainability into every aspect of our office design projects, we’re creating spaces that are not only environmentally friendly but also inspiring and functional. We believe that this approach is essential for creating a sustainable future and attracting top talent.
What innovative technologies or design processes have you utilized to enhance the functionality, efficiency, and user experience of office spaces?
Technology is fundamentally changing how we work, and this is reflected in the design of modern office spaces. Businesses today are looking for technology-driven solutions that can improve everything from operational efficiency to employee experience. Here at Space Matrix, we’re committed to using innovative technology and design processes to create workspaces that meet these evolving needs.
Understanding User Needs:
We understand that a successful office environment prioritizes three key elements: purpose, people, and performance. Technology acts as a catalyst, connecting these elements and ultimately shaping the future of work. We begin by focusing on the needs of the workforce. Today’s talent demands more than just a paycheck. They crave flexibility, collaboration, and a positive culture. Our approach centres around creating spaces that foster these desires.
The Smart Office Ecosystem:
Technology plays a crucial role in crafting an employee-centric work experience. We believe employees should look forward to coming to the office, not dread it. One example is our work on Gartner’s Centre of Excellence in Gurgaon. This space features innovative technology like RESET® certified air purification systems and real-time indoor air quality monitoring. These elements, combined with LEED and WELL certifications, demonstrate Gartner’s dedication to creating a healthy and productive work environment for their employees.
By designing with technology in mind, we can create spaces that cater to various needs and foster a strong sense of belonging. This translates into positive talent attraction and retention, ultimately strengthening the organization. We ensure spaces are equipped for virtual meetings, brainstorming sessions, and collaborative work, fostering innovation and teamwork. Additionally, features like personalized workspace control over lighting, temperature, and room booking empower employees and increase their overall satisfaction.
Workplace OS for a Seamless Experience:
Recognizing the ever-changing landscape of technology, we’ve developed a unique platform called Workplace OS. This is a comprehensive system that integrates various workplace technologies into a single platform. By adapting to individual preferences, Workplace OS allows employees to personalize their immediate work environment intuitively and efficiently.
From visitor management and room scheduling to indoor navigation and building management systems, Workplace OS creates a cohesive ecosystem where all technologies work seamlessly together. This not only simplifies business operations but also results in a more resilient and energy-efficient workplace.
Technology for the Future:
Technology-driven design doesn’t just improve efficiency; it also stimulates employees. By streamlining user preferences without compromising personalization, we empower employees to perform at their best while promoting well-being. Embracing tech-driven transformations helps create inclusive, efficient, and eco-friendly workplaces. These future-ready spaces are adaptable to the evolving needs of both businesses and employees, ensuring they remain prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.