CetraRuddy to design condos in South India

CetraRuddy, the N.Y. based architecture and interior design firm, has been awarded an international commission by the Choice Group. CetraRuddy will design a high-rise residential resort condominium property and marina in a port city in a South Indian state.    Choice Marina, as the property is to be named, occupies a waterfront site and will bring a new standard of luxury to the area.  The 138,000 s/f, 13-story condominium will feature 3 bedroom homes.  With only two homes per floor, each apartment occupies its own "tower" with water views in four directions. Construction is slated to begin in early 2009. Residences at Choice Marina have been designed with all of the refinement and hand-crafted detailing found only in a custom-designed home, including many unique elements that combine Indian and Western sensibilities.  Luxurious elements that are rarely seen in Indian developments will include private elevators, grand windowed master bathrooms with freestanding bathtubs and dressing areas.  The apartments will be finished with unique wood and stone detailing that is a CetraRuddy signature. "CetraRuddy was the perfect choice for this development because of their success in designing the most spectacular new condominium residences in New York and beyond - homes that combine luxury with original, thought-provoking architecture," said Jose Thomas, Chairman of The Choice Group.  "They have researched and understand the unique needs of this market and have surpassed our expectations in creating truly beautiful, one-of-a-kind homes at Choice Marina." In addition to the graciously appointed homes, Choice Marina includes an exclusive rooftop lounge and pool, outdoor sitting verandas, a private garden, and a seafood restaurant with spectacular water views. The building has been designed for maximum energy efficiency and sustainability.  Challenged by the unique tropical climate, the elegantly sculpted towers are sited and oriented to reduce solar heat gain and to minimize the impact of monsoons without compromising views. Each of the towers will bear a unique array of fixed and operable exterior screening and sun-shading devices to enhance the performance of the curtainwall and further improve energy efficiency. The Choice Group is one of the largest conglomerates in India, with divisions including: seafood products, exports and shipping, travel and tourism, real estate and property development and education, and offices across Europe and the United States.  Choice Construction has a strong track record of building quality projects throughout South India since 1987, with a combination of prime location, aesthetic appeal, functional design and quality construction as the hallmarks of each initiative.  This project marks CetraRuddy's continued expansion.  While this is the firm's first international commission, they have already expanded from the New York metro area with successful projects in Cambridge, MA, Charlotte, NC and the Washington, D.C. metro area.