A bustling neighbourhood in Pune, Viman Nagar is home to several commercial establishments. Teeming with office goers, the locality is characterised by a host of commercial activities including cultural cafes, street hawkers, store fronts creating an eclectic chaos. Mekong Folks presented a unique opportunity to make a statement that drew attention while also maintaining a subtle aesthetic style.
Eclectic Chaos & Cultural Aesthetic makes a Unique Concept for this Asian Diner | Studio GASP
Visit: Studio GASP
Without meddling with the functionality that was required for the structure to be used optimally, only the façade was changed. Spread across three levels, each serving a distinct purpose, the design weaves together the contemporary and the modern that is reflective of the restaurant’s philosophy as well.
Half way through the project, the studio was briefed that the ground floor would be converted to a confectionary space to attract walk-ins and enhance business. Rising to the occasion the architects delivered a space that was eye-catching yet stays true to the essence of the restaurant.
In the bakery, shelves were created using birch ply and a partition space was added that merged onto the staircase continuing the use of plywood in the private dining room.
The first floor houses an indoor thematic restaurant while the second floor serves as a charming private dining room. As guests are led to the dining area on the first floor, they are greeted by a vibrant 12 ft. painting that depicts the sheer joy that a meal can bring to you while also reflecting hints of pop culture through the Mekong river delta. Similarly, motifs across wooden panels add a pop of color as you enter the dining area.
A subtle material palette was meticulously curated, which connects the external and internal pats of the restaurant. The use of grey concrete finish on the walls with tan brown as the main accent colour gives a perfect balance of space the otherwise small restaurant. Green flooring has been used to add an element of drama that further accentuates the feel of the space.
The store room assigned to the top level creating a dead wall for the road side façade while the middle level had apertures which would shield the dining area from the noise and air pollution of the road. To provide a cohesive character to all these different spaces, the studio has invested a lot of thought in the details amalgamating the use of birch plywood, fluted glass, mild steel and leather upholstery. While renovating the space, the existing plaster was converted into a concrete finish to merge with the furniture tones.
The existing balcony area presents the perfect warmth, with just a couple of tables, it was planned in a way it offed a cosy space that also overlooks the street.
Fact File
Designed by: Studio GASP
Project Name: Mekong Folks
Location: Pune, Maharashtra
Project Size: 1400 Sq.ft.
Year: 2021
Principal Architect: Gargi Kulkarni Pherwani, Sahil Pherwani
Consultants for the Project:
Concept: Rajjeet Chandra
Artwork: Abhinav Kafre
Text: Amrita Choudhary
Project Management: Kumar Patil Consulting Engineers
Contracting: PROMT PMC
Kitchen Consulting: Kitchen Krafts
Photograph Courtesy: PHX India
Firm’s Instagram Link: Studio GASP
For Similar Project>>Islamic Cultural Center In Piedmont-Italy | Wafai.Architecture And Fragomeli + Partners
Scarlett Designs Pvt. Ltd. (SDPL) blurs the boundaries between structure and nature with the conceptualization and design of the elemental villas at Ananta Spa and Resort, Ajabgarh. Nestled amidst the majestic Aravalli ranges, the design of the resort draws inspiration from the vastness of its surroundings and natural elements. Each villa type, including Earth, Lagoon, […]
The design of Habitat 0 begins with the central concept of a vacation home community organized around a circular form. This layout places individual spaces radially around a central circular courtyard, creating an environment where every space has access to expansive views of the surrounding greenery. The circular design is essential in fostering a deep […]
Nestled in the tranquil village of Thenipalam, Malappuram, Aman is a 2,800 sq. ft. residence, manifesting its Urdu namesake, meaning peace, sanctuary, and security. Designed by Vaktra Architects, this traditional Kerala home is a testament to simplicity, blending Kerala’s tropical ethos with contemporary elegance. This Traditional Kerala Home is Rooted in Simplicity and Modern Elegance […]
Pranjali – The Doctor’s Bungalow is a peaceful and practical modern bungalow design located in Naya Raipur, Chhattisgarh. The name Pranjali, meaning “a graceful offering” or “a gesture of respect,” reflects the spirit of this residence—a calm, humble, and thoughtful space created for a doctor couple seeking balance in their busy lives. The design goal […]
The contemporary style architecture house is located in the lively urban context of Thaltej, Ahmedabad nestled within a private cluster of four bungalows. Though the home enjoys the benefits of community, it also maintains a high degree of privacy and seclusion. This is achieved through a carefully considered spatial arrangement, despite the proximity of a […]
Screenwriter and director Megha Ramaswamy approached Fractal Chaos to design an organic home as a weekend retreat in Pasli Gaon, Velhe—a village about 150 km from Pune. The site is located between the Deccan Plateau and the Western Ghats, which gives it a unique ecology with 4 seasons. Drawn to the land by a bordering […]
Situated in the bustling residential neighbourhood of Koorkenchery, Thrissur, Dr. Lakshmi’s residence stands as a refined architectural response to a narrow 15.53 cent plot. The 4214.07 sq ft home is a seamless blend of modern traditional kerala house, with an Indonesian inspired grey white exterior that exudes sophistication. The design strategically employs linear planning, integrating […]
Imagine a home that breathes with the breeze, where sunlight filters through lush foliage, and the vibrant hues of nature are an extension of your living space. Tropical houses are architectural marvels; a profound dialogue between human habitation and the natural world, born from centuries of adapting to warm, humid climates. Far from rigid structures, […]
Kerala style homes have courtyards surrounded by rooms on each side. Traditional Kerala-style homes have a central courtyard known as Nadumuttam surrounded by rooms. These homes promote natural light and ventilation according to the region’s climate. These homes, due to the feature of courtyards as their core spaces, offer beautiful opportunities for social gatherings. This […]
Aangan is a modern residence that seamlessly integrates with the lush environment of Kerala, showcasing a tropical home design. Designed to embrace the region’s warm climate, the house features a striking sloped terracotta roof at varying levels, enhancing both its aesthetic appeal and functional efficiency. The structure is enveloped in a vibrant tropical landscape, adorned […]