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Saniya Kantawala Design

Saniya Kantawala Design

Mumbai, IN

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Esora

The concept of Esora started as a scribble, commemorating the phenomenal quote from the architect, Zaha Hadid, “There are 360 degrees, so why stick to one?” Confined to a rigid rectangular space, the design could have followed a simple and conventional approach. But, instead, the design philosophy that was concluded deviates to a more atypical idea of spatial planning. A certain sense of engagement has been worked upon to induce within the rigid space and convert it into a more organic and fluid perception, subtle in terms of circulation.

The interior, designed with a radial scheme, has two focal points, between which the patrons find a traditional design of an arched door frame with transparent glazing, just like any other common restaurant entry. The drama sets afoot as one enters the space and effortlessly chooses one of the two focal points establishing familiarity and a dialogue with the spatial setup. One of the focal points is heart to the fine-dining practices and so is the arrangement of furniture in this section. The other side of the restaurant finds its exciting locus at the bar area with a concentric counter-top and high bar seats around it. Moving further into the zone, the comfort of booth seating has also been incorporated. Embedding a more profound vibe, the fluidity is enhanced by introducing five distinct levels into the entire volume of the space through its spatial planning scheme.

On the left of the main entrance, set on a higher level, is the bar section with a more casual seating. It has a unique articulated and demarcating entrance, using a framed façade made out of exposed fire bricks with an inlay of turquoise plaster finish and planters on both sides. This renders an antique touch to the bar's characteristic, reminiscent of old wineries and cellars. The bar has been worked on with ethereal art in black white and gold along with a brass footrest and brass finish laminate for the counter area. To the inside of the bar, there is a long circular pillar created in the center of the bar. For easy access, several wine bottle pigeon holes were created for storing the house and imported wines that the restaurant holds. The bar back is finished with black PU and brass laminate that harmonizes with the colour palette of the section and the whole volume.

On the right of the entrance is the fine-dining area where every table can be combined to cater to larger groups. This portion can be accessed as one moves out of the bar area through the arched façade. At this point, the level drops and finds the natural ground level of the restaurant. From the right edge of the entrance stretches a multipurpose Amphitheatre, curvilinear in form. This amphitheatre provides the other three levels to the space, adding a subtle informality to the dining area. Finished in wood, the seating layout uses pop-up cushions placed in an alternate fashion, for a cosy look. The rear wall, behind the level structure, is crenellated with matte black tiles adorning floral motif, halfway from the bottom. The rest of the wall is painted in teal adding to the contrast. The ceiling walls are finished in the tones of grey and dark charcoal grey, camouflaging the conduits and casing of the minimalist light fixtures in an industrial chic design for the true ceiling.

The booth seating fancies a dull cherry polyester suede fabric and a wooden base, tables clad in walnut wood laminate and brass coated facia patti. Kadappa stone with a grey rough texture has been used for the flooring with green granite at abstract angles inside the concentric pattern underscoring the two focal points of the space. Adhering to the impression of the space, Esora encompasses floor-to-ceiling long windows suffusing ample natural light into the space. To optimize the intensity, sheers of grey hue have been added to windows which facilitates to maintain the warm ambience. Due to the nature of sheers and the incident sunlight, a beautiful skiagraphy is seen inside the volume of the space. Accentuated by a pop of teal on different portions of the walls, the colour palette has been kept tepid and soft.

The restaurant’s backdrop welcomes patrons from all walks of life with vibrant options for communal spaces. The pastel colors and the natural light infusions make it attractive for lunch outings. The element of amphitheatre makes it accessible for the working professionals looking for new spaces to work at, collaborate at and feel inspired. Lastly, the bar area and the sitting area is idyllic for family and friend gatherings. The space imbibes both, the setting of fine dining and the aura of a casual place to hang out at.

Esora, in itself, elaborately explores all the degrees and knits together each palpable part of the restaurant to form one single character. The design of the bar creates a powerful impact and so does the dynamics of the spatial arrangement but largely, encapsulating with a sense of balance. The overall colour palette brings harmony to the spirit of the interiors in unison. The congregational setup of the restaurant emanates a social engagement into the space.

 
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Status: Built
Location: Mumbai, IN
Firm Role: Principal Designer
Additional Credits: Design Team - Nida Shaikh
Photographer - Darshan Savla