search

Fusion of Modernity and Medieval India -Terracotta Restaurant | tHE gRID (Snehal Suthar/ Bhadri Suthar)

Fusion of Modernity and Medieval India -Terracotta Restaurant | tHE gRID (Snehal Suthar/ Bhadri Suthar)

Vision

A zest for working with materials charged with positivity and spirit of the universe in consonance (harmony) culminating into a solution which was powerfully simple.

Ideology

Reducing carbon footprints, serving a greater purpose.

Project note

The main challenge of this project – a 2,700-square-foot space that had to be made into a restaurant with a thoughtful blend of the old-world and the contemporary – was its low budget.

On one hand was the need for glamour, luxury and comfort – the mainstays of fine-dining cuisine establishments that are so crucial in communicating the fineness of its calibre – and on the other, was the fact that space was much larger than the budget.

The short turnaround time – 45 days to be precise – added to the complexity of the task. The architects resolved to meet this challenge with tremendous positive energy, and that’s what drove them to choose natural and earthy materials which are charged with the energy and the spirit of the universe.

 

 

The thought processes, then, were directed to affordable,rooted-to-the-earth, organic materials, and thereon to clay: soft, malleable and mouldable.

A material used in daily life, yet with great aesthetic properties and immense craft value.The endeavour then became to create a simple, albeit powerful, contemporary space,articulated with the help regional raw materials, raw bricks, clay, terracotta and raw wood, using local labour.

Terracotta, the name suggested by the architect in congruation of the materials chosen by him, also echoes the suppleness and tactility of the design thought process.

The overall feel of the space is seamless as there are minimal barriers that exploit the idea of the Indian jaali: thin 2-mm Corten steel laser-cut screens create visually semi-permeable partitions that connect and delineate spaces at once. Rather than a flat, nondescript lighting, the strategy here embraces techniques that create mystery and intrigue, with the play of shadow and light –or light and spaces created due to the absence of light – creating an energy that uplifts the entire mood.

 

Imaginative and subtle play of lamps and wall-washed lighting achieve subliminal partitioning of space without the aid of actual physical contrivances.

Soft pools of light from perforated terracotta pendants (echoes, again, of the jaali concept) over individual tables engender a feeling of intimacy and seclusion, while the rest of the space stays immersed in soothing semi-illumination. Specially designed low budget lamps incorporated with LEDs and black stickers to reduce the lumen as per the requirements achieve the aura envisioned.

Ethnic, old-world elements overlaid on an essentially contemporary, clean-lined base effectively achieves the desired fusion of modernity and medieval India, resulting in a heightened aesthetic and experiential quality.

The logo of the establishment on the exterior resonates the energy within. The transition from a mundane urban setting into the restaurant is stunning and impactfully establishes the presence of the main focus material, clay. Right at the outset, thewall mural cum lighting installation composed of terracotta bowls attracts the eye with its play of shadow and the breath-taking character of light.

Nearby is an old-fashioned stone table holding water vessels, a subtle reference to the ability of this unassuming material – clay – to be interpreted in myriad ways. This composition comes to life due to the play of light and the ceiling-hung Corten steel screen behind. Another design highlight is the wall panelling (made of terracotta) which looks upturned pans (tavas), lit from behind so that the concentration in on the light and not its source.

This creates an exquisite feeling of restfulness as a precursor to a culinary journey. The frames on the wall and the jharokha (a recycled medieval door) overlooking through the passage into the vast expanse of the space, add more vignettes of times bygone.

The palette is naturally ruled by the material that has given this restaurant its name.

Unglazed earthenware makes its appearance as lamps, pottery and installations. Walls and columns feature fired bricks, while floors are lined with burnt sienna-grey rustic ceramic tiles, which are analogous to the natural weathering of the Corten steel screens.

The low ceiling has been partially covered with timber panels of recycled wood to camouflage the AC and electrical conduits, besides creating visual grandeur. The same material, as finger-jointed batons, creates tops for all tables, whose frames are rendered from recycled MS. Wood also makes an appearance as panelling and detailing of the windows.

All painted surfaces feature water-based non-toxic environment-friendly paint. The largely earthy colour scheme is punctuated by wall expanses painted in red ochre and bright red upholstery of the chairs. The green plants around the exterior added to the green and natural pursuit to complete the inspiration and the key element of the project (organic).

The easy productive movement for all services is achieved very naturally because of effective space planning. The central mocktail island is efficaciously placed. The restaurant zone is free from the service pathway. All service including the restroom and kitchen and banquet access are artfully planned so as not to disturb the food sector.

The coming together of all elements – materials, craftsmen, the way the layout has been resolved — has resulted into an ideal of spaces, culminating into a visual statement. This project ostensibly had several odds stacked against it. There were limits to the budget; constraints of time; the requirements of luxe, style, glamour… But positivity, being rooted to the earth and working with materials that resonate with the spirit of the universe, have dovetailed into a programme that triumphs over these challenges.

 

 

Green elements

Recycled wood for the ceiling, panels and tables

LED lights

Manpower (craftsmen and labour) and materials sourced from within 50 km

Recycled metal for jaalis and table frames

Recycled jharokha, pots and artefacts

Unglazed terracotta earthenware

Eco-friendly paint

Green plants around the restaurant

 

1 Location GANDHINAGAR
2 Details of the space (area in sq ft) 2700 Sq.Ft.
3 Seating Capacity Approx – 105
4 Concept & Interior Design tHE gRID (Snehal Suthar/ Bhadri Suthar)
5 Principal/ Creative Director tHE Grid Architects (Snehal Suthar/ Bhadri Suthar)
6 Team Aanal Shah
7 Agencies Involved (Structure, Plumbing, Electrical, Mechanical, HVAC, Acoustics) Plumbing, HVAC, Acoustics, Electrical, carpenter
8 Interior Contractor
9 Furniture Manufacturer  –
10 Graphics and Creatives In-House, tHE gRID ARCHITECTS.
12 Photograph credits PHX INDIA
13 Artists In-House, tHE gRID ARCHITECTS.

 

 

This Multi Family House Considers The Individual Needs and Tastes | The Framework Interiors

The aesthetics of this multi family house considers the individual needs and tastes, which reflects in their particular rooms and common areas. This multi family house for 6 is located in Balewadi, Pune. They opted to refurbish the house from the ground upin which ‘Home Office’ acts as key highlight of the project. The COVID-19 […]

Read More

This Project Promises An Immersive Experience In Contemporary Elegance | Auro Design Studio

From the captivating wallpaper to the intricate wainscoting, this project promises an immersive experience in contemporary elegance and spiritual tranquility. Embark on a journey through the interior design transformation of a spacious 2000 sq.ft. apartment, comprising 3.5 rooms thoughtfully crafted to encompass a living room, dining area, kitchen, utility space, terrace, and an open enclave […]

Read More

Wardrobe Interior Ideas: 13 Guidelines To Select For Your Bedroom

Wardrobe interior ideas are where functionality meets style and organization, intertwined with creativity. It is about a treasure trove of wardrobe interior ideas that transcend mere storage solutions. Your wardrobe isn’t just a repository for clothing; it’s a curated space where daily rituals unfold and personal style finds its expression. From clever storage hacks and […]

Read More

This Two Bedroom Apartment Reminds One Of The Rolling Blue Seas | Agneya Designs Pvt. Ltd.

This two bedroom apartment reminds one of the rolling blue seas of the Mediterranean. The bright blue against the stark white pays homage to the classic, clean beauty of the seaside. The interiors of this abode in Baner, Pune are gracious, quiet and elegant, reflecting the owners’ style and vision for the space. The open […]

Read More

15 Types of Wardrobe That Adds Extra Space In The House

A wardrobe is not just a piece of furniture constructed in the house. There are types of wardrobe one builds in the house according to their needs and requirements. Choosing the right type of wardrobe can be a critical task at times. While designing the house, one always thinks about the kind of storage space […]

Read More

Furniture for Small Spaces: 15 Ways to Decorate Compact Homes

Compact homes and furniture for small spaces have become today’s trends in designing a home. However, affordability is not the only reason for choosing a compact house with furniture for small spaces. They are also easy to maintain and reflect simplicity in daily life. For furniture for small spaces, their ideas and designs are more […]

Read More

20 Essential Bar Interior Design Mastery Tips And Tricks

Bars are not merely places to grab a drink; they are vibrant social hubs, cultural icons, and embodiments of bar interior design innovation. The ambiance, layout, and aesthetics of a bar interior design play pivotal roles in shaping the overall experience for patrons. Whether you’re embarking on a new venture or seeking to revamp an […]

Read More

Prestige Group Office Is Elegant Without Being Disturbingly Loud | lyth Design

The Prestige Group office space is elegant without being disturbingly loud. When radically aspirational real estate developers meet articulate-minded architectural designers to design their office, it brings forth the genesis of contemporary design solutions demonstrating a refreshing take on office design. One such instance is the Prestige Group’s Mumbai office by lyth design. Over the […]

Read More

Approach To Design Was To Keep Functionality As Top Priority | Oll Korrect Design Studio

The approach to design was to keep functionality as top priority and then build on the look and feel of the house. The clients had decided upon bringing in some old walnut furniture that had been passed on to them through generations. Most of this furniture was made out of teak and had some brass […]

Read More

Fusion Design Aesthetic Is Refreshingly Simple Yet Carefully Designed | Studio Living Stone

The interior design of this home embraces and blends different styles, while incorporating customized furniture for a unique and personalized look. The fusion design aesthetic is refreshingly simple yet carefully designed to create a welcoming atmosphere. Editor’s Note: With a balance of simplicity and conscious design, the interior of this residence in Surat offers a […]

Read More
  • सारांश– Nitin Varsha House | URBSCAPES

    51 Amazingly Comfortable Lounge Chairs