Designed as a one-of-a-kind restaurant in Ahmedabad, Under The Neem Tree is conceptualized by Hiren Patel Architects. Amidst the changing landscape of Ahmedabad, now transitioning to a concrete jungle, a timeless respite under the scorching sun, this project beckons the soul. It stands true to the local Ahmedabadi style, responding to the climate, culture, and context with its unique flair. Sprawling over 6750 sq.ft across a single storey, this space weaves its narrative through its interconnectedness and materiality. Each turn along the path makes for a view to pause and behold before proceeding into the heart of this space. Right at the entrance, a serene water body, reminiscent of the step-wells, welcomes you inside. Flanked on either side by covered pathways, it feels like walking into the veranda of Ahmedabadi pol houses.
Editor’s Note: “Under the Neem tree with visual interconnection and timeless materiality, this restaurant is a serene oasis in the concrete jungle of Ahmedabad. Responding to the context, this L-shaped built form intertwines local tradition with modern elegance. The tranquil landscape feature welcomes visitors, and the brick wall adorning artworks celebrate the city’s rich history. With its climate-responsive layout, inviting patios, and intricate interior details, it offers a unique sensory experience that beautifully reflects the essence of the city.” ~Baarat Krishna
Restaurant in Ahmedabad is a Timeless Respite in a Concrete Jungle | Hiren Patel Architects
The restaurant in Ahmedabad sits in an L shape, creating pockets that offer a varied typology of seating options. Walking along the veranda, you’re presented with patios to lounge in, while the brick-laden wall on the other side invites you to take in the artworks displayed along its length.
More than fifty artworks, capturing a century’s worth of Ahmedabad’s history, adorn the interiors, adding visual dynamism to the space.
The exposed brick wall becomes a characteristic element of the space that lends it its timelessness in an otherwise fast-paced hospitality industry where trends become the driving force.
In contrast, this branch of Under The Neem Tree is a sanctuary infused with all the peace and quiet one could ask for. It’s like stepping into the relief of shade after roaming around in the scorching heat all day.
The landscaped garden extends outwards from the restaurant to drive this point home. A water body curves around, with fresh lily pads leisurely floating about.
The landscaped garden creates a soothing effect for the senses, and also taking away the day’s stress and replacing it with a calming atmosphere. This leads to the ideal dining experience where all senses are brought to the present moment.
A myriad of indoor and outdoor dining spaces let diners find their ideal setting, furthermore surrounded by trees and art, to enrich their experience. Lighting plays an important role here, illuminating the exposed brick walls that reflect a soft, diffused glow onto the main spaces.
Pendant lamps and chandeliers add more warmth to enhance the coziness of the ambiance. Flooring defines each space, from gradient Kota tiles to a blend of Gujarati-Moroccan tiles that breathe a new life. It also creates a new identity into each space.
Warm-toned rattan chairs and deep wooden tones make up most of the seating and furniture here, nicely complementing the burnt-redness of the bricks. Contrasting tableware in mellow but vivid hues brings out these tones, creating a visual feast before the actual one begins.
Courtyards add richness to the visual vocabulary here, also drawing inspiration from traditional architecture that’s local to the area. Tables find their layout naturally alongside the courtyard, additionally giving rise to interesting spaces throughout the restaurant.
More than just a restaurant, Under The Neem Tree is an all-encompassing sensory experience. It invites patrons to pause, reflect, and also savor the essence of Ahmedabad in each moment spent within its embracing walls.
Fact File
Designed by: Hiren Patel Architects
Project Type: Restaurant/Bar/Cafe
Project Name: Under The Neem Tree Restaurant
Location: Ahmedabad
Year Built: 2020
Project Size: 6750 Sq.ft
Principal Architect: Hiren Patel
Photograph Courtesy: Vinay Panjwani
Source: Archdaily
Firm’s Website Link: Hiren Patel Architects
Firm’s Instagram Link: Hiren Patel Architects
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