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Surat, India, Shines as "Surat Diamond Bourse" Becomes World's Largest Office Building Surpassing the US Pentagon.
PC: Twitter
Surat, often hailed as India's gem capital, is now making headlines as it unveils the magnificent "DREAM City" project. Short for Diamond Research and the mercantile city, DREAM City is an ambitious upcoming business district in Surat, Gujarat, set to redefine the landscape of the global diamond industry. Spanning over an impressive 810 hectares (2000 acres) near Khajod, this colossal complex is built in the image of Gujarat Tec-City and Dholera Smart City near Ahmedabad.
A Glittering Gem in Surat's Crown: Surat Diamond Bourse
At the heart of the DREAM City project is the awe-inspiring "Surat Diamond Bourse," a gleaming 15-story office complex that spans an impressive 35 acres of land. A true marvel of architectural brilliance, the Surat Diamond Bourse serves as a one-stop shop for over 65,000 diamond professionals. Surpassing even the iconic Pentagon in the United States, this sprawling building with its nine interconnected rectangular structures radiating from a central "spine" stands as the world's largest office building.
Surat Takes Center Stage: Surpassing the Pentagon's Feat
Surat's Surat Diamond Bourse has achieved a monumental feat, overshadowing the Pentagon in the United States, which held the title for nearly 80 years. With a staggering 7.1 million square feet of floor space, the office boasts a sheer scale of grandeur that leaves the world in awe. The massive project, however, was not originally intended to surpass the Pentagon. Its size was purely dictated by the growing demand from the diamond industry, showcasing Surat's prominence as a global gem trading hub.
A Visionary Design: Delhi-based Morphogenesis at the Helm
Behind this architectural marvel is the visionary Delhi-based architecture firm Morphogenesis. Their masterful design incorporates innovative features, such as a "radiant cooling" system that circulates chilled water beneath the floors to regulate indoor temperatures, conserving energy and earning the building a coveted "platinum" rating from the Indian Green Building Council. Solar energy powers common areas, and an airport terminal-inspired central corridor interconnects 4,700 office spaces, enhancing efficiency and fostering a vibrant working atmosphere.
Driving India's Diamond Industry: A Dual Mission
Beyond its grandeur, the Surat Diamond Bourse stands as a testament to India's unwavering commitment to bolster its diamond industry. The project aims to create a diamond export hub alongside a textile university, elevating India's global position in the gem and textile sectors. Presently, Surat handles the diamond polishing, while India's sole diamond exchange, Bharat Diamond Bourse in Mumbai, serves as the trading center. The Surat Diamond Bourse's addition to DREAM City promises to revolutionize the industry by consolidating trading and manufacturing in one vibrant locale.
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A Symbolic Design Quirk: Absence of the Unlucky 13
As an intriguing quirk, the Surat Diamond Bourse bears no 13th floor, a nod to the superstitions of the business world. Adhering to the belief that the number 13 brings bad luck, the building omits the traditional floor numbering, jumping from 12 to 14.
A Vision Realized: Unveiling Ceremony and Occupancy
The Surat Diamond Bourse's journey to completion spanned approximately four years, including a two-year delay due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Soon, the world will witness the official opening ceremony presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In November, the first occupants will find their homes in this dazzling diamond district, embracing the future of the global gem trade.
DREAM City's Surat Diamond Bourse is more than a record-breaking office building; it embodies Surat's soaring ambition and unwavering commitment to elevating India's diamond industry on the world stage. As this shimmering gem in Surat's crown gleams brighter each day, it promises to be a powerful catalyst for the city's economic growth and international prominence.
