IBM workplace design

Our approach focused on studying traditional craft as a structured visual system rather than decorative reference. My starting point was Patola textiles from Gujarat, known for their symmetry, rhythm, and geometric construction. Rather than directly reproducing existing patterns, we looked at how these systems could be studied, reduced, and rebuilt for a contemporary workplace environment.

The challenge was balancing the richness of handcrafted references with IBM’s visual language, which emphasises clarity, structure, and engineered simplicity. Through multiple iterations, the focus shifted towards simplifying motifs, refining forms, and creating compositions that felt ordered while still retaining warmth and cultural memory.

This project was developed as part of a larger collaborative effort, where each designer researched and interpreted a different Indian artform. Together, the work created a broader visual language that connected diverse craft traditions through a shared design approach.

The visual system was built around a visible grid, translating traditional Patola motifs into a structured, pixel-precise framework that aligned with IBM’s design principles. Repeating forms, symmetry, and geometric construction became key elements in shaping the compositions. Bold colours were used to reflect the vibrancy of Indian visual culture while maintaining clarity and balance within the compositions. The resulting system was designed to feel adaptable across large-scale environmental graphics appropriate for a contemporary workplace.