Malleshwaram is an ode to the traditional Dravidian and Carnatic courtyard restaurant homes. It is intended to be a celebration of the Indian craft and skill, with many a reference from the huge old inward-looking rural mansions. In this space, where tradition and elegance converge, the architecture sings in whispers of wood and shadows.
Editor’s Note: “Beneath the echoes of old Karnataka homes, Malleshwaram stands as a tribute to Indian craft and culture. This courtyard restaurant offers a timeless dining experience where tradition is relived in every texture, tone, and tale. Moreover, this space is like a musical composition, where every element resonates with artistry and harmony.” ~ Anusha Sridhar
Malleshwaram Celebrates Indian Craft & Tradition In A Courtyard Restaurant | Loop Design Studio
The restaurant believes in creating an environment that is reminiscent of the Gutthu houses of South Karnataka. Four wooden pillars and an ornate inverted pitched roof enclose a central sunken area, creating the space. The ceiling rises like an intricately woven canopy, dark beams curving in rhythmic harmony, suspended like a dance frozen in time. The inverted ceiling is the most striking feature, giving the space both depth and a sense of fluid motion. A vintage chandelier casts a warm, golden light, softening the shadows and highlighting the organic textures of the wood, complementing the intricate latticework.
The central area has a platform for performers around a small lotus pond. The platform appears almost like a stage, subtly elevated and surrounded by a delicate arrangement of flowers, possibly floating in water— suggesting a ritualistic or meditative space. Moreover, this feature, along with the presence of greenery, introduces a serene, almost sacred quality to the environment, where nature and artistry meet.
The walls, finished in a smooth, earthy texture, serve as a neutral backdrop, allowing the space’s decor to stand out. Framed black-and-white art adorns them, each piece carefully chosen to evoke a sense of nostalgia and respect for cultural heritage. However, these images subtly reinforce the room’s connection to tradition while adding an artistic layer to the ambiance.
The restaurant floor is Mandana stone with Indian marble inlay work to create a pattern. The sunken seating area floor is done up in black and white Athangudi pattern tiles. The very traditional and central courtyard axis is complimented by the rest of the space in a very subtle way., the lime wash walls are adorned with brass artefacts, Tanjore paintings and playful art. The meandering planters at entrance incorporates all sorts of greens that makes it surreal as well as tranquil.
The courtyard restaurant serves you understated luxury with an essence of flamboyance while offering the intimate character of a home. The entire space feels like an ode to ancient times, where each curve and corner evokes stories whispered through the ages.
Overall, the architecture and interior design reflect a deep respect for tradition, merging it seamlessly with modern luxury. The space is crafted to be both a visual feast and a tranquil retreat, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its rich cultural tapestry.
Fact File
Designed by: Loop Design Studio
Project Type: Restaurant/Bar/Cafe
Project Name: Malleshwaram Restaurant
Location: Chandigarh, India
Year Built: 2024
Project Size: 2200 Sq.ft
Principal Architects: Ar. Nikhil Pratap Singh & Ar. Suvrita Bhardwaj
Team Design Credits: Rythm Bansal, Himani Bansal & Anshita Thakur
Photograph Courtesy: Purnesh Dev Nikhanj
Products / Materials / Vendors: Lighting – Oorjaa Lighting / Sanitaryware – Kohler / Furniture – Jae Furniture, Jodhpur / Flooring – Mandana Stone (Triveni Marble, Chandigarh), Pattern Tiles (Parman Designs) / Paint – viero paints / Hardware – Hafele
Firm’s Instagram Link: Loop Design Studio
Firm’s Facebook Link: Loop Design Studio
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