Latest news with #SpectaQuartzSurfaces
Business Standard
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Business Standard
Padma Shri Sudarsan Pattnaik joins Specta and CRY's 'Colouring Dreams' campaign with Live Sand Art for children's creative future
SMPL Puri (Odisha) [India], August 1: Specta Quartz Surfaces, India's leading luxury quartz brand, and CRY (Child Rights and You), one of India's foremost child rights organisations, are proud to announce a landmark collaboration with acclaimed sand artist Padma Shri Sudarsan Pattnaik as part of their ongoing campaign, "Colouring Dreams of India's Children." Launched with the mission to support the artistic development of children in underserved areas across the country, "Colouring Dreams of India's Children" takes a powerful leap forward with Sudarsan Pattnaik's participation. Globally renowned for his evocative seashore sand art that conveys messages of social importance, he has created a live sand sculpture to visually narrate the spirit of the initiative--giving India's children the tools and confidence to dream in colour. At the heart of this engagement is a deeply personal connection: as a child growing up in Puri, Odisha, Pattnaik often turned to sand as his only medium for expression due to the unavailability of art materials. His journey from those early struggles to global recognition mirrors the very essence of this campaign--nurturing creativity in the face of adversity. The artwork has been created at Niladri Beach in Puri, Odisha, as a statement of hope and inspiration for children across the country. Reflecting on the collaboration, Padma Shri Sudarsan Pattnaik said, "I began my artistic journey using sand because there were no other options. Today, I'm honoured to help children across India find their own creative paths. This campaign is a full-circle moment for me--proof that with a little support, dreams can indeed be coloured into reality." The central artwork, conceptualised by Specta and CRY and brought to life by Pattnaik, features two children representing the quintessence of childhood. The figurines standing with outstretched arms symbolise freedom and hope, and celebrate the pure joy of expression. The image prominently bears the words "Colouring Dreams of India's Children", with the Specta and CRY logos standing in partnership. Ankit Jain, Founder of Specta Quartz Surfaces commented on the partnership, adding, "At Specta, we firmly believe that every child has artistic potential and needs the right tools to nudge it out. We are thrilled to welcome Padma Shri Sudarsan Pattnaik to this joint campaign with CRY, as his story resonates deeply with what we stand for--empowering children to create, dream and flourish." Through this initiative, proceeds from the sales of Specta's newly launched Pastel Poise collection will enable CRY to provide essential art materials, conduct community art workshops, and build inclusive spaces where children can freely express their imaginations. "Sudarsan Ji's involvement adds life and colour to this campaign, as it accentuates its central message," said Puja Marwaha, CEO of CRY. She said, "At CRY, we believe when we give our children space and opportunity to think freely and express creatively, we nurture not just their potential but the future of our society. A nation that encourages its children to imagine and express, by default guarantees a future where children don't just grow, but begin to shape the world around them. Hence, for us, nurturing children's imagination is investing in the future of our nation." The unveiling of this special sand art installation marks a poignant milestone in the campaign--transforming a shared vision into a powerful symbol of encourages customers and partners to support the cause by choosing the Pastel Poise slabs--a step toward homes filled with colour, and a country where every child has the tools to dream big. Through this meaningful collaboration, Specta and CRY aim to turn colour into a catalyst for change and use art as a tool to empower, uplift and inspire children. As the "Colouring Dreams of India's Children" campaign unfolds, the organisations will jointly work towards empowering underprivileged children throughout the nation. About Specta Quartz Surfaces Specta is a luxury Indian brand redefining design excellence with its high-quality engineered quartz surfaces. Leveraging the most advanced Breton technology from Italy, it creates exceptional stone surfaces known for their durability, cutting-edge designs and timeless elegance. With a commitment to artistry and innovation, Specta transforms ordinary quartz into extraordinary creations that elevate spaces worldwide. For more information, visit About CRY CRY - Child Rights and You is a leading Indian non-profit organization working to ensure children's rights for over four decades. Founded in 1979, CRY collaborates with grassroots communities and local authorities to create sustainable change in the lives of underserved children across India. The organization works across areas such as education, healthcare, nutrition, and protection from exploitation and abuse, with the goal of ensuring a happy, healthy, and creative childhood for every child. CRY's efforts have impacted the lives of over 20 lakh children through projects across 20 states. To learn more, visit
Hindustan Times
10-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Hindustan Times
Want a livelier kitchen? 4 design tips to add pastel-themed colour and charm to your cooking zone
Kitchen interiors often lean towards utility, as homeowners who prioritise functionality often mistake it solely for a space to prep meals. But it is way more than that, it is a space where subtle intimate moments lie, from early morning rants over brewing coffee or late night meal prep for impulsive cravings with heart-to-heart conversations. To support these fleeting yet heartfelt moments of life, your kitchen needs to be lively. Kitchens that follow the pastel designs appear lively.(Shutterstock) Point being, kitchens have a lot of potential and deserve focus rather than just being utility-based. Ankit Jain, Founder, Specta Quartz Surfaces, shared with HT Lifestyle how pastel designs give a warm personality to the kitchen. Pastel kitchen is not a novel concept as it is already stepping into homes and hearts. Elaborating more on where pastel kitchens are gaining traction in India, Ankita said,'The answer lies in a deeper shift in how people want their homes to feel. From metros like Bangalore and Gurugram to tier-2 cities like Indore and Nagpur, there's a growing desire for warmth without heaviness, minimalism without coldness, and beauty without noise. Pastels offer exactly that, subtle, soft colours that visually expand smaller kitchens, balance busy lifestyles with calm energy, and pair effortlessly with modern modular layouts. However, this isn't just a visual trend. We've noticed that customers choosing pastel slabs for their kitchens are also signalling a shift in lifestyle aspiration; they want their homes to reflect clarity, lightness, and softness in a fast-moving world, a sanctuary of sorts.' Ankit Jain shared a detailed guide on pastel kitchens and how you can go about designing yours: 1. Start with the surface that matters the most Pastels in the kitchen aren't just for cabinets or backsplashes; when the countertop becomes the hero element, it sets the tone for the entire space. Quartz slabs in pastel finishes are making that possible. Unlike tiles or laminates, engineered quartz offers consistent colour, seamless surface flow, and the durability needed for Indian cooking, resisting turmeric stains, hot pots, knife scratches, and oil splatters. From soft mint greens to blush pinks and eggshell blues, pastel quartz comes in a wide palette. Whether you choose a matte finish for a minimal look or a subtle shimmer to catch the light, pastel quartz countertops can make your kitchen feel polished without trying too hard. 2. Choose your dreamy colour palette The colour palette of your kitchen will shape how it feels, whether it's open and airy, warm and cosy, or cool and minimal. Pastels are perfect for creating a sense of calm and spaciousness, and they adapt well to both classic and contemporary styles. Primary colours - Begin by picking a primary pastel that sets the tone. Mint green is a great place to start, it's clean, botanical, and pairs beautifully with both wood and white finishes. It gives the space a sense of freshness that doesn't feel clinical. - Begin by picking a primary pastel that sets the tone. Mint green is a great place to start, it's clean, botanical, and pairs beautifully with both wood and white finishes. It gives the space a sense of freshness that doesn't feel clinical. Secondary colours- Layer in a secondary colour to add interest and personality. Soft powder blue or blush pink are great complementary shades. Powder blue brings in a breezy, almost coastal charm, while blush pink adds gentle warmth. For a dreamy corner or a breakfast nook, lavender can be a lovely accent; it brings a relaxed, romantic feel without being overpowering. 3. Where and how to apply pastel colours Cabinets: Cabinets are one of the best places to showcase pastels. A full mint or pastel pink cabinet set can define the kitchen's identity and serve as a strong visual cue. Brass or matte gold hardware can elevate the look, keeping it stylish without losing its softness. Cabinets are one of the best places to showcase pastels. A full mint or pastel pink cabinet set can define the kitchen's identity and serve as a strong visual cue. Brass or matte gold hardware can elevate the look, keeping it stylish without losing its softness. Backsplash: It's where you can play with texture and contrast. Think geometric tiles, pastel subway patterns, or even custom quartz panels. For instance, yellow cabinets paired with a lavender quartz backsplash create a cheerful, storybook look. Off-white walls with mint green tiles, on the other hand, offer a sleek, urban aesthetic. Either way, the backsplash acts as a bridge between surfaces and can pull the entire colour scheme together. It's where you can play with texture and contrast. Think geometric tiles, pastel subway patterns, or even custom quartz panels. For instance, yellow cabinets paired with a lavender quartz backsplash create a cheerful, storybook look. Off-white walls with mint green tiles, on the other hand, offer a sleek, urban aesthetic. Either way, the backsplash acts as a bridge between surfaces and can pull the entire colour scheme together. Walls and ceilings: Walls and ceilings are often left neutral, but they can add an extra dimension to your pastel story. A soft eggshell blue wall or pale peach ceiling helps soften the space visually and reflects light, making compact kitchens feel brighter and bigger. Walls and ceilings are often left neutral, but they can add an extra dimension to your pastel story. A soft eggshell blue wall or pale peach ceiling helps soften the space visually and reflects light, making compact kitchens feel brighter and bigger. Appliances: Small appliances and everyday items are great places to reinforce your colour scheme. A pink stand mixer, a mint green toaster, or pastel-toned storage jars can add charm without cluttering the space. These finishing touches make the design feel intentional and complete. 4. Lighting Pastels truly come alive in the presence of good lighting, so it's important to design your kitchen with illumination in mind. Natural light is key. If your kitchen has the benefit of ample natural light, opt for cooler tones to make it look fresh and breezy. On the other hand, homeowners with compact kitchens, especially in city apartments with less natural light, can opt for warmer pastels to give the illusion of warmth. To maintain the look after hours, layer your artificial lighting thoughtfully. Use pendant lights above the island to create a focal glow, install under-cabinet LED strips to highlight backsplashes, and add wall sconces or ambient lighting near breakfast nooks or shelves. But if you are a minimalist and want to know how to design a white kitchen, check out this story: Too cool for colours? 5 design and decor tips to ace the all-white aesthetic for your kitchen
Time of India
06-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Crafting luxury: How this Jaipur-based MSME is winning India's elite
Jaipur-based ARL Group , known for its Specta Quartz Surfaces brand, has spent 30 years in the utility building material industry. After years of focusing on functional products, the company decided to diversify into the luxury segment, expanding its portfolio to cater to high-end customers seeking premium building materials. The Group explored new opportunities for diversification and discovered engineered quartz stones at exhibitions. Intrigued, they began a comprehensive study of the product and conducted global market research to understand its potential and trends. This helped them in evaluating the demand, competition, and potential applications of engineered quartz stones in the luxury segment, says Ankit Jain, Founder of Specta Quartz Surfaces, a luxury brand specialising in engineered quartz surfaces. 'Globally, the market is huge, and it is a very well-accepted product,' adds Jain. The global quartz market, estimated at $7.62 billion in 2025, is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.19% to reach $9.35 billion by 2030. The Indian quartz market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.4% to reach $2,462 million by 2026. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Bank Owned Properties For Sale In Tan Dinh (Prices May Surprise You) Foreclosed Homes | Search ads Search Now Undo 'We saw an opportunity to enter a new product line, leveraging export markets to kickstart growth while simultaneously investing in the Indian market to build our brand. This strategy allowed for a beneficial synergy between international expansion and domestic development,' says second-generation entrepreneur Jain. As these luxury projects continue to grow in volume, there is a growing demand for luxury interior materials like quartz surfaces for kitchen and washroom countertops and wall cladding, says Jain. The entrepreneur identified an opportunity in the market for high-quality quartz surfaces, particularly those manufactured using Italian technology, which is preferred by discerning buyers for its superior quality and durability compared to Chinese alternatives. Live Events Ankit leveraged his manufacturing expertise and built India's first manufacturing facility with the Italian Bretonstone technology in the Bagru Industrial Area , Jaipur, Rajasthan. For the uninitiated, Bretonstone is the gold standard in engineered quartz manufacturing worldwide. This Italian technology enables the creation of highly durable, design-consistent, and hygienic quartz surfaces that are ideal for modern living spaces. 'We were only the third company in India to do so and the first to focus so much on the Indian market. This decision has paid off, as Specta's designs are now a benchmark in the industry,' says Jain. India's luxury housing market The growth of luxury real estate and consumption in India has fuelled the demand for high-end home products, says Jain. As people invest more in their homes, especially kitchens and bathrooms, the market for premium materials like quartz surfaces has naturally expanded, offering an opportune time for brands like Specta Quartz Surfaces to capitalise on this trend, adds Jain. Luxury housing units priced above Rs 1.5 crore account for around 17% of new residential launches in India, according to ANAROCK Research's 2024 data. The luxury homes priced over Rs 1 crore dominated sales in 2024, crossing the 50% mark. Specta is planning to open six exclusive experience centres, including flagship locations in Mumbai, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. The Jaipur-based MSME has made strides in the stone surfaces market, successfully catering to high-end customers seeking premium building materials. It has achieved nearly Rs 150 crore in revenue within just three years. The company also supplies its products to the Middle East. The price of Specta's products ranges from Rs 500 per sq ft to Rs 2,000 per sq ft depending on design intricacies and colours. 'Our turnover (revenue) has steadily grown from Rs 23 crore in 2022-23 to Rs 90 crore in 2023–24, with an EBITDA of Rs 4 crore. The provisional figures for 2024-25 show continued momentum, with turnover reaching Rs 145 crore, underscoring strong demand, strategic execution, and improved profitability,' says Jain. Over the next one year, Specta is expecting a revenue of Rs 300 crore. Specta Quartz Surfaces is working to boost capacity by year-end and aims for 50% year-on-year revenue growth over the next three years. To drive this expansion, the company is launching six exclusive experience centers, with flagship locations in Mumbai, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad, as part of its strategic retail growth plan. How is the sector placed? Aarti Harbhajanka, Co-founder, CHRO & MD, Primus Partners, says that India's luxury market, including premium building materials like engineered quartz surfaces, is growing steadily due to rising disposable incomes, urbanisation, and demand for high-end interiors. 'The engineered quartz segment is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8-12% over the next five years, driven by real estate development and an increasing preference for durable, aesthetically pleasing surfaces, adds Harbhajanka. However, Harbhajanka cautions that India's engineered quartz market also faces hurdles like price sensitivity due to competition from affordable alternatives such as ceramics and laminates. Additionally, the industry struggles with high import dependency on raw materials and consumer preference for traditional marble, she says. The Jaipur-based MSME has made strides in the stone surfaces market, successfully catering to high-end customers seeking premium building materials. 'Logistics complexities, considering the weight of the quartz and sustainability concerns around silica sourcing and carbon emissions, may add further hurdles. However, manufacturers are countering these issues through localised production and eco-friendly innovations,' adds Harbhajanka. Specta's operating model Specta's business model leverages partnerships with architects, designers, and developers, wherein Specta, founded in 2022, integrates its premium surfaces into luxury residences, commercial spaces, and hospitality projects. Also, it has recently expanded into retail and direct-to-consumer sales for its next phase of scaling. Specta operates in 80 tier-II and tier-III cities across India, supported by a robust network of approximately 60 distributors and 300 dealers. Our business follows a B2B model, wherein we dispatch products from our factory directly to our distributor network, who then handle local logistics and last-mile delivery. 'While our transactions are B2B, over 95% of our sales cater to retail homeowners, facilitated by our dealer ecosystem. Our sales team also works closely with kitchen installers, architects, and designers who act as key influencers, helping get our products specified in premium residential and commercial projects,' says Jain. The company also partners with modular kitchen brands like Livspace, Spacewood, Arancia, and Nolte, who showcase its quartz surfaces in their showrooms. 'When customers place orders, our distributors handle fulfilment. Meanwhile, our business development team collaborates with these kitchen installers and architects in major cities to pitch and showcase our products,' he adds. However, Jain agrees that the product is still at a very nascent stage in India. But he is hopeful more and more people will access the product since people's spending power in India has increased over the years. More than the spending power, the willingness to spend has increased, says Jain. 'With luxury kitchens ranging from Rs 25 lakh to Rs 1.5 crore, high-end consumers aren't satisfied with basic materials like granite. Brands like Nolte and Livspace cater to this demographic, where premium quartz surfaces become a natural choice for those investing in high-end kitchen designs,' adds Jain. Expansion plans Specta, which has so far managed its working capital entirely through bank credit, is planning to open six exclusive experience centres, including flagship locations in Mumbai, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. 'This is a part of our retail expansion strategy and will help us bring our products closer to customers in high-demand areas. Additionally, we are also banking on the rising luxury real estate market in tier-II and tier-III cities to expand our customer base within the luxury homeowner segment in these regions,' says Jain. The company has also invested in a new manufacturing plant, which will become operational by the end of the year. 'This plant will increase our capacity by almost 150%, and it will be capable of producing super-jumbo slabs and ultra-thin 7mm slabs with unique design possibilities. This advancement will open new applications beyond traditional surfaces, reinforcing Specta's position as an industry leader in innovation and design,' adds Jain.
News18
27-04-2025
- Health
- News18
Pastels And Psychology: Why Calming Colours are Shaping the Future of Interior Design
Whether through the introduction of pastel-hued surfaces in homes or the integration of calming colours into office designs, the future of interiors looks promisingly serene In the world of interior design, colour has always played an essential role in creating ambience and setting the tone of a space. However, recent trends in colour psychology are elevating its importance, as experts begin to realize the profound impact that specific hues have on human emotions and well-being. One of the most significant shifts has been the growing popularity of calming pastel tones, which are increasingly making their way into homes and workplaces alike. The Power of Pastels: A Gateway to Calm As Ankit Jain, Founder, Specta Quartz Surfaces, explains, 'Colour psychology is increasingly reshaping interior design, offering subtle yet impactful ways to influence the energy and emotion of a space." He points out that humans are visual creatures, receiving nearly 87% of all sensory information through the perception of colour. This means that the colours we choose for our environments have a profound effect on our moods and emotional states. Pastel hues such as soft blues, lavender, greens, and pinks are not only pleasing to the eye but are also scientifically proven to reduce stress and promote a sense of calm. 'Subtle hues of blue, lavender, green, and pink don't just look beautiful—they're proven to reduce stress and promote a sense of calm," says Jain. These colours are increasingly popular in spaces such as kitchens and bathrooms, where individuals are looking to create sanctuaries that support mental well-being. At Specta, Jain has witnessed a significant demand for pastel-inspired designs. 'We introduced the Pastel Poise collection—four curated shades inspired by the serenity of spring and global biophilic design movements, which promote natural and healing environments. Our aim is to create surfaces that not only elevate interiors but also nurture the people living within them," he adds. This blend of soothing colour and thoughtful design speaks to a growing desire for interiors that support emotional and physical health. Beyond the home, calming colours are becoming increasingly important in professional spaces. Sammeer Pakvasa, Managing Director & CEO, Eleganz Interiors, highlights how these tones are transforming the modern workspace. 'In today's fast-paced work culture, calming colors are proving to be more than just aesthetic choices—they're essential tools in creating mindful, productive environments." Soft pastel shades like sage green, blush pink, and powder blue are being integrated into office spaces to foster clarity, creativity, and emotional balance. These colours not only help to reduce stress but also boost focus, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere that encourages both well-being and performance. Pakvasa emphasizes that colour psychology is central to human-centric design. 'At Eleganz Interiors, we believe color psychology is central to human-centric design. There's a rising demand for workplaces that not only look beautiful but also feel nurturing," he shares. By thoughtfully combining pastel tones with the right materials and lighting, designers like Pakvasa aim to create spaces that nurture both emotional comfort and professional excellence. 'As the interior design landscape evolves, calming colours will continue to shape not only environments but also the experiences within them," he predicts. The Future of Design: A Blend of Aesthetics and Well-being As our understanding of colour psychology deepens, it becomes clear that the future of interior design is one where aesthetics and emotional well-being go hand in hand. Pastel colours, once considered merely a trend, are now seen as essential elements in creating spaces that support mental health and productivity. From homes to offices, these soothing tones are transforming environments into sanctuaries of calm and clarity. Whether through the introduction of pastel-hued surfaces in homes or the integration of calming colours into office designs, the future of interiors looks promisingly serene. Thanks to experts like Jain and Pakvasa, we are learning that design is not just about how a space looks, but also how it makes us feel. And in a world that moves faster every day, the importance of creating nurturing environments where people can relax, focus, and thrive has never been more important. First Published: April 27, 2025, 12:11 IST
