In the heart of Mumbai’s Ballard Estate lies an architectural marvel that seamlessly blends history, sustainability, and creativity. What was once the Ambico Ice Factory, Asia’s oldest ice manufacturing facility established in 1878, has been masterfully transformed into IF.BE—a 10,000-square-foot cultural and creative hub. This metamorphosis is the brainchild of Kamal Malik, an architect with nearly five decades of experience, who reimagined this historic structure to preserve its legacy while making it a contemporary landmark.
A Historical Treasure Revived
When Malik first encountered the derelict building in 2019, it was a serendipitous moment. Sunlight filtering through the Burma teak trusses, illuminating the remnants of the factory, and the presence of a sprawling banyan tree ignited a vision. Initially, Malik had no concrete plans for the structure, but the image of the banyan tree lingered, eventually inspiring him to undertake the ambitious restoration project with a team comprising Abhijit Mehta, Arjun Malik, and Amrita Malik.
Originally christened the Bombay Ice Manufacturing Co., the factory played a pivotal role in providing ice to South Bombay’s fish markets, restaurants, and vegetable vendors. Ice, initially imported from Boston, faced challenges in India’s tropical climate, prompting the establishment of local factories like Ambico. The building witnessed decades of activity before operations shifted to a newer facility in New Bombay.
The Journey of Transformation
Restoring a 145-year-old structure was no small feat. Malik and his team embarked on a painstaking 30-month journey to rejuvenate the factory, with a focus on adaptive restoration and sustainability. Every detail was treated with reverence for the building’s history. Layers of old plaster were carefully removed to reveal vintage Burma teak woodwork and intricate brick structures. The team resisted polishing these surfaces, preserving their raw and authentic appeal.
Where necessary, structural reinforcements were added to stabilize sagging roofs and crumbling walls. Historic features like cooling coils and the original gantry used to transport ice blocks were creatively integrated into the restoration. For instance, the cooling coils are now embedded in a glass floor near the entrance, offering visitors a glimpse into the factory’s past.
A Hub for Creativity and Collaboration
IF.BE, an acronym for Ice Factory Bellary Estate, also symbolizes possibilities and the passage of time, represented by the dot in its name. The space is divided into five sections, each offering unique experiences:
- The Banyan Tree Café: A cozy spot for conversations and culinary delights.
- The Substation: A reading room and shop for architectural books and tools.
- The Ice Factory: A performance space for stand-up shows, workshops, and film screenings.
- The Cathedral: The main exhibition area showcasing art and design.
- Native Bombay: A fine-dining restaurant serving Indian cuisine.
The venue has quickly become a cultural hotspot, hosting events ranging from storytelling sessions by filmmaker Zoya Akhtar to meditative workshops and art exhibitions. It serves as a meeting ground for architects, designers, and artists, fostering collaboration and dialogue.
Sustainability at Its Core
Malik’s approach to restoration was deeply rooted in sustainability, inspired by his childhood in Shimla and a lifelong connection to nature. He emphasizes that true sustainability lies in understanding and respecting the region’s climate, materials, and historical influences.
The restoration avoided cement, relying instead on the original composite of brick and wood for stability. Lightweight steel and galvanised iron roofs were used sparingly, ensuring minimal environmental impact. The adaptive reuse of existing materials, including repurposing teak wood and vintage brickwork, underscored the commitment to preserving the factory’s essence.
A Living Legacy
IF.BE stands as a testament to the possibilities of thoughtful restoration and adaptive reuse. It is not just a building but a living, breathing entity that bridges the past and the future. Malik envisions it as a place where creative minds converge, a space that celebrates art, architecture, and sustainability in equal measure.
For those in Mumbai, a visit to IF.BE is more than just a cultural outing; it’s a journey through time, a celebration of heritage, and an inspiration for the future. As you step into this architectural oasis, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world where history meets innovation, and creativity knows no bounds.