
EQUINITI
Project details :
Workspace | 35500 sq ft
DLF IT Park, Ramapuram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Completed in 2024
Equiniti, now rebranded as EQ, is a UK-based leader in technology-enabled financial services, specialising in shareholder management, pension administration, and compliance. Founded in 2014, EQ India serves as the group’s digital transformation centre, driving innovation that has helped 36 million people in the UK, US, and beyond achieve lifelong financial security.
Merak Studio has brought new life to the Equiniti Chennai office by creating a human-centric workspace. Spearheaded by Rajan Sharma, the studio’s founder and principal architect, the redesign transforms a sprawling 35,000-square-foot office into a harmonious environment that balances light, space, and purpose. With EQ’s thoughtful rebranding as the foundation, Merak Studio meticulously transformed the expansive layout into a series of intimate, purpose-driven spaces, each crafted as a tribute to collaboration, focus, and well-being.
The journey begins at the reception, where natural light floods the space through expansive glass panes, creating an inviting and airy atmosphere. The area comes alive with a palette of earthy tones complemented by accents of mocha tones and muted beige, featuring natural textures with a contemporary aesthetic. The centrepiece is a sleek marble reception desk; its polished surface showcasing subtle veining adds to the elegance of the space. Flanking the desk, the plush sofa in a rich terracotta hue is paired with a single adjacent chair in muted grey, subtly grounding the space in natural warmth. Green planters, placed along the walls and near the seating area, introduce a refreshing calm, while metallic accents in the light fixtures and trim add a touch of refinement. Every detail, from the pistachio green pillars to the finish of the wood-panelled walls, reflects the rebranding efforts woven into every corner of the office, setting the tone for a workspace that maintains a counterbalance between professionalism and rejuvenation.
The expansive 35,000-square-foot workstation area welcomes the employees with the promise of endless possibilities, designed to inspire creativity and collaboration. As one moves deeper into the office, the space unfolds in a harmonious rhythm of desks, arranged to promote productivity and comfort. This vast layout is softened by a deliberate interplay of light, greenery, and texture. Rows of planter-lined storage units break up the monotony, introducing a touch of nature that humanises the space. Natural light streams abundantly through large windows that illuminate the workstations and create an uplifting atmosphere.
The manager’s cabin and the meeting room are a study in balance—offering privacy without disconnecting from the larger team. The design maximises natural light, with strategically placed furniture and acoustic panelling ensuring the room feels open yet exclusive. The cabin’s sleek desk and minimalist décor reflect sophistication, tying into the broader office aesthetic.
The large conference room exemplifies the thoughtful use of space. An acoustic folding door divides the room into two smaller meeting spaces when needed, allowing for flexibility. The walls feature sound-absorbing materials for undisturbed meetings. This adaptable design supports its functionality and reflects the commitment to creating a workspace that evolves to meet the diverse needs of its users.
Housed within the open office layout, the phone booths offer a quiet refuge. These compact, soundproof spaces are enclosed by glass doors framed in matte black. Inside, the earthy tones and soft finishes create a cocoon-like feel, perfect for focused conversations or moments of solitude.
The collaborative area is a lively retreat, styled like a café. Soft seating, warm wooden tables, and clean lines create a space that invites casual discussions or quiet brainstorming sessions. The design leverages natural light and earthy tones, so the space feels relaxed yet professional. This café-inspired area reinforces the idea of humanising the workspace, where employees are encouraged to connect and recharge.
Maintaining the synergy of space where EQ’s organisational philosophy is rooted in prioritising people’s value and potential along with processes and productivity, Merak Studio implemented breakout spaces strategically scattered throughout the office. These spaces offer employees a chance to step away from their desks without leaving the flow of work. Minimalist in design, they are furnished with neutral tones and soft textures, providing a peaceful retreat for reflection or informal team discussions.
Recreational areas are another addition to this school of thought, designed with playful colours and bold geometric patterns on the walls, complemented by modular furniture. These spaces create an energetic atmosphere, ideal for team-building activities or individual relaxation. The versatility of these rooms reflects Merak Studio’s vision of designing modern, contemporary spaces that evolve with their users’ needs.
A commitment to sustainability underpins every design choice. The abundant natural light reduces the need for artificial lighting, and the greenery throughout the office brings out a biophilic connection that supports employee well-being. The carpets tie together the entire office space, enhancing acoustic quality, while the acoustic baffles —both wall-mounted and freestanding—are functional design elements used effectively to create a quieter, more focused work environment. Even the Equiniti washrooms seamlessly tie into the overarching design narrative, featuring sleek fixtures, earthy tones, and soft lighting that echo the office’s minimalist aesthetic, achieving a thoughtful balance found throughout a workspace that breathes.
EQUINITI
Project details :
Workspace | 35500 sq ft
DLF IT Park, Ramapuram,</br> Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Completed in 2024
Equiniti, now rebranded as EQ, is a UK-based leader in technology-enabled financial services, specialising in shareholder management, pension administration, and compliance. Founded in 2014, EQ India serves as the group’s digital transformation centre, driving innovation that has helped 36 million people in the UK, US, and beyond achieve lifelong financial security.
EQUINITI
Project details :
Workspace | 35500 sq ft
DLF IT Park, Ramapuram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Completed in 2024
Varthana is India’s largest provider of school loans and a rapidly growing student loan company, headquartered in Bengaluru. Founded in 2013, Varthana offers financial solutions to support affordable private schools and students, amplifying access to education and improving infrastructure. With a presence in 15 states and 40 branches, Varthana empowers school leaders and students to achieve their educational goals.
Equiniti, now rebranded as EQ, is a UK-based leader in technology-enabled financial services, specialising in shareholder management, pension administration, and compliance. Founded in 2014, EQ India serves as the group’s digital transformation centre, driving innovation that has helped 36 million people in the UK, US, and beyond achieve lifelong financial security.
Merak Studio has brought new life to the Equiniti Chennai office by creating a human-centric workspace. Spearheaded by Rajan Sharma, the studio’s founder and principal architect, the redesign transforms a sprawling 35,000-square-foot office into a harmonious environment that balances light, space, and purpose. With EQ’s thoughtful rebranding as the foundation, Merak Studio meticulously transformed the expansive layout into a series of intimate, purpose-driven spaces, each crafted as a tribute to collaboration, focus, and well-being.
The journey begins at the reception, where natural light floods the space through expansive glass panes, creating an inviting and airy atmosphere. The area comes alive with a palette of earthy tones complemented by accents of mocha tones and muted beige, featuring natural textures with a contemporary aesthetic. The centrepiece is a sleek marble reception desk; its polished surface showcasing subtle veining adds to the elegance of the space. Flanking the desk, the plush sofa in a rich terracotta hue is paired with a single adjacent chair in muted grey, subtly grounding the space in natural warmth. Green planters, placed along the walls and near the seating area, introduce a refreshing calm, while metallic accents in the light fixtures and trim add a touch of refinement. Every detail, from the pistachio green pillars to the finish of the wood-panelled walls, reflects the rebranding efforts woven into every corner of the office, setting the tone for a workspace that maintains a counterbalance between professionalism and rejuvenation.
The expansive 35,000-square-foot workstation area welcomes the employees with the promise of endless possibilities, designed to inspire creativity and collaboration. As one moves deeper into the office, the space unfolds in a harmonious rhythm of desks, arranged to promote productivity and comfort. This vast layout is softened by a deliberate interplay of light, greenery, and texture. Rows of planter-lined storage units break up the monotony, introducing a touch of nature that humanises the space. Natural light streams abundantly through large windows that illuminate the workstations and create an uplifting atmosphere.
The manager’s cabin and the meeting room are a study in balance—offering privacy without disconnecting from the larger team. The design maximises natural light, with strategically placed furniture and acoustic panelling ensuring the room feels open yet exclusive. The cabin’s sleek desk and minimalist décor reflect sophistication, tying into the broader office aesthetic.
The large conference room exemplifies the thoughtful use of space. An acoustic folding door divides the room into two smaller meeting spaces when needed, allowing for flexibility. The walls feature sound-absorbing materials for undisturbed meetings. This adaptable design supports its functionality and reflects the commitment to creating a workspace that evolves to meet the diverse needs of its users.
Housed within the open office layout, the phone booths offer a quiet refuge. These compact, soundproof spaces are enclosed by glass doors framed in matte black. Inside, the earthy tones and soft finishes create a cocoon-like feel, perfect for focused conversations or moments of solitude.
The collaborative area is a lively retreat, styled like a café. Soft seating, warm wooden tables, and clean lines create a space that invites casual discussions or quiet brainstorming sessions. The design leverages natural light and earthy tones, so the space feels relaxed yet professional. This café-inspired area reinforces the idea of humanising the workspace, where employees are encouraged to connect and recharge.
Maintaining the synergy of space where EQ’s organisational philosophy is rooted in prioritising people’s value and potential along with processes and productivity, Merak Studio implemented breakout spaces strategically scattered throughout the office. These spaces offer employees a chance to step away from their desks without leaving the flow of work. Minimalist in design, they are furnished with neutral tones and soft textures, providing a peaceful retreat for reflection or informal team discussions.
Recreational areas are another addition to this school of thought, designed with playful colours and bold geometric patterns on the walls, complemented by modular furniture. These spaces create an energetic atmosphere, ideal for team-building activities or individual relaxation. The versatility of these rooms reflects Merak Studio’s vision of designing modern, contemporary spaces that evolve with their users’ needs.
A commitment to sustainability underpins every design choice. The abundant natural light reduces the need for artificial lighting, and the greenery throughout the office brings out a biophilic connection that supports employee well-being. The carpets tie together the entire office space, enhancing acoustic quality, while the acoustic baffles —both wall-mounted and freestanding—are functional design elements used effectively to create a quieter, more focused work environment. Even the Equiniti washrooms seamlessly tie into the overarching design narrative, featuring sleek fixtures, earthy tones, and soft lighting that echo the office’s minimalist aesthetic, achieving a thoughtful balance found throughout a workspace that breathes.