India celebrates a momentous achievement with the inauguration of the Surat Diamond Bourse (SDB), the world’s largest office building, surpassing even the iconic Pentagon in size. The colossal 15-story structure, located in Surat, Gujarat, stands as an architectural marvel, showcasing the significant growth of Surat’s diamond industry.
Spanning a vast 35 acres and assembled over four years, the SDB comprises nine interconnected buildings, linked by a central spine, covering an expansive 7.1 million square feet of floor space. Valued at 3,200 crore ($388 million), this grand edifice exemplifies the fusion of aesthetics and functionality.
Functioning as a non-profit organization under the Companies Act, 2013, the SDB plays a crucial role in promoting the Diamond Bourse in Surat. With 90% of the world’s diamonds cut in Surat, the SDB elevates the city’s status as the global gem capital. Additionally, it serves as a vibrant hub for the diamond trade, intended to accommodate over 65,000 diamond professionals. The SDB aims to boost India’s economy by generating employment opportunities and fostering innovation and collaboration.
Designed by Morphogenesis, the SDB’s unique layout resembles an airport terminal, providing equal accessibility to all offices, regardless of size. This “democratic” design ensures an equitable working environment for everyone. Moreover, a lottery system for office allocation further reinforces the building’s democratic ethos.
The architectural vision of SDB includes nine courtyards, facilitating casual and bazaar-like interactions among traders, reflecting the informal nature of the diamond trade in India. The Surat Diamond Bourse stands as a symbol of India’s entrepreneurial vigour and economic prowess. This remarkable masterpiece perfectly marries design, functionality, and business, placing Surat and India at the forefront on the world stage.
