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    • Design

    From Mumbai to Kolkata: 145 Cafe & Bar crafted by Sumessh Menon is for the design gourmets at heart

    MAY 10, 2024 | By Subikshaa Stalin
    Enchanting beryl hues take over the seating indoor seating area. Locally sourced furniture pieces and veneer, lights from Ledomatics and fabrics from A to Z deck up this space; Photograph courtesy 145 Kolkata
    Brightly coloured Mosaic sourced from Piccolo, lights from Ledomatics and furniture fabrics from A to Z dazzle the bar, evoking a sense of wonder and delight; Photograph courtesy 145 Kolkata
    A stunning view of the bar counter bursting into a pop of colour. Textured MCM sheets add to the sustainable aspect of this eccentric design; Photograph courtesy 145 Kolkata
    A florid artwork by Creative Karm adorns the entrance offering a prelude to the visual feast that awaits within; Photograph courtesy 145 Kolkata
    At 145 Kolkata, you'll find a variety of seating options for every mood and occasion; Photograph courtesy 145 Kolkata
    The bar displays a wide range of peculiar and quaint pieces from Spacious and The Golden Triangle. Lights from Ledomatics and coloured artwork by Creative Karm imbue a compelling energy into the space; Photograph courtesy 145 Kolkata
    The exterior dining space bathing in sunlight peers into the busy streets of Kolkata; Photograph courtesy 145 Kolkata

    Kolkata shares a deep adoration for its endless list of eateries and its iconic cabin-restaurants, holding them at the heart of its cultural fabric. From extravagant nightclubs like Mocambo and Peter Cat to the beloved roadside stalls serving puchka and jhal muri, the city continues to exist as a rich culinary landscape. Adding to this wealth is 145 Kolkata in Park Street designed by Sumessh Menon.

    An ode to the city’s buzzing spirits, reminiscent of its feverish scenes from the late 90’s the design started out with a clear intent — envisioning a bold and unapologetically vibrant space. “Discussions with the client centred around infusing the venue with bold colours, edgy pop art and an inviting ambiance that would captivate the youth of Kolkata,” recalls the Founder and Design Principal of Sumessh Menon Associates.

    The infusion of pop art and bold colours adds a whimsical charm to the ambiance; Photograph courtesy 145 Kolkata

     

    At 145 Kolkata, you’ll find a variety of seating options for every mood and occasion; Photograph courtesy 145 Kolkata

    Spirits and shades

    As you step through the doors of 145 Kolkata, you’re immediately greeted by a burst of vibrant energy that ignites the senses. A larger-than-life artwork in brilliant colour stands tall setting the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable experience.

    Moving further into the space, the centrepiece of the restaurant is a magnificent 60-70-foot-long bar commanding attention with its sleek design. And as you explore the transition of the space from indoors to outdoors, you’re met with an array of seating options that cater to every mood and occasion.

    Cosy seating by the kitchen, reminiscent of the iconic cabin-restaurants of Kolkata; Photograph courtesy 145 Kolkata

     

    A florid artwork by Creative Karm adorns the entrance offering a prelude to the visual feast that awaits within; Photograph courtesy 145 Kolkata

    To the right of the kitchen, private seating and dining areas offer an intimate retreat for those seeking a more secluded experience. In the outdoor area, a vibrant tapestry of seating arrangements awaits — from booth seating that invites lively conversations to a raised area featuring a pool table and DJ console.

    Enchanting beryl hues take over the seating indoor seating area. Locally sourced furniture pieces and veneer, lights from Ledomatics and fabrics from A to Z deck up this space; Photograph courtesy 145 Kolkata

    Kolkata meets Mumbai!

    The decision to transform a significant portion of the indoor space into a dynamic outdoor area breathes new life into the venue. “The redesigned facade, with its expansive openings serve as a gateway to an enchanting panorama of Park Street’s bustling landscape,” elaborates Sumessh, expressing his delight at the outcome.

    “Our aim was also to infuse a touch of Mumbai’s spirit into the heart of Kolkata, bridging the gap between these two dynamic cultures,” he adds. As a brand originating from Mumbai, it made sense to celebrate their unique charm and cultural nuances within the walls of 145 Kolkata.” he adds.

    The pool table set against the elegant facade recalls the age old charm of the city’s cultural fabric; Photograph courtesy 145 Kolkata

     

    The exterior dining space bathing in sunlight peers into the busy streets of Kolkata; Photograph courtesy 145 Kolkata

    Embracing a modern aesthetic with a playful twist, 145 Kolkata takes shape in deep beryl hues. Textured MCM sheets with a jute finish adorn the ceiling, while chip mosaic flooring adds a pop of colour to the bar area.  With each corner and nook offering something new to discover, 145 Kolkata transcends the boundaries of traditional dining establishments, offering an immersive experience. It’s a place where the spirit of Kolkata shines bright.

    Now Read: Of archways and fluted walls: Tesor Designs transforms this 200-year-old Belgaum bungalow into a modern Art Deco restaurant