What remains at the intersection of fashion, architecture and human experience? Plenty room for experiments. Plenty room for thinking against the winds of normality. Bearing all signs of how retail stores in India are undergoing an esoteric transformation, a new multi-designer space in Kolkata dubbed Unconventional is remoulding our sensorial interaction with fashion — the enigmatic built and interiors of the store being at the heart of this experience.
Imagined by a mother-son duo Preeti and Yash Jhunjhunwala, Unconventional roosted in the upscale locale of Alipore hosts an interesting muster of new-age fashion designers. Neighboured by the cultural icons Victoria Memorial and Rabindra Sarobar lake a little further, the store, as the duo says becomes a venue for creators, artists and anyone for whom the idea of belonging is not humming the hymns of commonality. Designed by Raj Periwal of Maheshwari & Associates, the store easily stands synonymous to a museum of clothes, art and installations. “You don’t get to see and experience everything all at once!” He says.
Splashed in grey micro-concrete, black veneer and metallic finishes, the store subtly emphasises on the colourful identity of the displayed clothing, furniture and artworks. A rather dramatic encounter at the store is a large metallic sphere that intentionally obstructs views of the rest of the space, while igniting a visual curiosity for what’s to come. “The central sphere obstructs your view of different parts of the studio, transporting you to different setups as you move around it.” What adds to this sensory exploration are details like the ripple metal ceiling and a reception table that seems to float.
A retail revolution perhaps? An unconventional layout for the namesake store does not recite the typical visuals of space efficiency. “We have internationally wasted space to not conform to the general idea of design.” What has been triumphed also is the idea of making visual statements by blurring the hierarchy between fashion and object design.
Alongside the era’s zeitgeist labels like Huemn and Almost Gods to the 3D-printing shoes brand Outbreak, limited-edition pocket chair by Sudheer Rajbhar from aequo gallery in Colaba, Mumbai and the asymmetrical yellow sofa by Ligne Roset perch in curated corners. With tactile and visceral interaction at the pulse of this retail outpost, Unconventional reimagines the dynamics of commerce, art and consumerism bundled up into a frame that does not conform. Noticed the logo of the brand yet?
Unpredictable discoveries continued to guide my first visit to Amritsar. An immediate mnemonic for the gilded-domed gurudwara, the Golden Temple, the second-largest city in Punjab has kept up to speed with the whirlwinds of modern economy in the last few years. Lord Elgin, the new cocktail bar and restaurant in Amritsar, avows this sentiment strongly. Different, cosmopolitan yet regionally-forward.
Door to discovery In Amritsar, everyone knows Elgin, it seems. The hospitality brand has several other culinary outposts in the city’s prime neighbourhoods. Lord Elgin being the latest is tucked in the heart of Elgin Cafe (a modern European eatery that has enjoyed much fanfare amongst Amritsari diners since 2021.)
On a sunny afternoon, we strolled through a paved walkway shrouded with trees to a grand, solid wood door stamped with golden dragonfly motifs. This is Lord Elgin, where sundry visuals caress the eyes and remind you of various references: a Bridgerton-esque setting, a hidden garden cave or even a time-travel to a Victorian-era glasshouse.
“It draws inspiration from the timeless allure of British pubs, crafted for a sense of grandeur and intimacy,” explain founders Kavish and Shruti Khurana, who entrusted Sanchit Arora of RENESĀ Architecture Studio to shape the space into reality.
High glass ceilings, revealing glass walls, a central curved bar, bespoke chandeliers and layers of decorative curios only begin to define the details here. “Lord Elgin was to depict a bright, sun-drenched palette set within its own oasis that provides a sense of exotic escapism,” says Sanchit and adds, “The ingenious way of framing and imagining a glass house set amongst the lush greens led to many architectural features such as metal frames with truss roofs and high vents to provide a comfortable and vast experience.”
If you notice keenly, the glass grid here lays out a constant rhythm, dividing the restaurant into sections and lending it a sense of functionality.
What’s on the menu?
Bold flavours and robust spices are mainstays of Amritsari cuisine. And while chole-kulche, dal makhani and tikki chaat are some colloquial staples — chef curators Suvir Saran and Vardaan Marwah have added their seasoned strokes of flavours to Lord Elgin’s menu. Modernistic Delhi-6 chaat packs the sass and depth of flavour that one finds at streetside chaatwaalahs in Old Delhi, “But here we present it with yoghurt clouds that float you away to culinary epiphany,” says chef Suvir, famed for Devi, the now-inactive Michelin-star Indian restaurant in New York.
Another crowdpleaser is Mutton Salli Kheema Pav. Or its vegetarian soy version that has all the heft and authenticity of North Indian home cooking, elevated to a modern status quo with an airy potato mash and crispy Salli paired with buttered pav. “Each bite is familiar yet thrilling,” says Suvir, who wanted the culinary language of the menu to be familiar yet playful, “And comforting with discoveries…”
Not just food, but the story of ingredients is also pivotal to the cocktails here — fusions inspired by popular drinks around the world with a spin. As Vardaan tells, “A standout is El Chapo’s Picante with ancho chilli, passion fruit and kaffir lime elegantly served with a spray of mezcal.” Bramble 2.0 with bluepea-infused gin and berry liqueur was a feisty pink-purple cocktail that the mixologist stirred up that afternoon, alongside an orange sun-hued Paloma.
Together with head mixologist Sunny, the duo has also crafted zero ABV drinks, “Featuring fun flavours and unexpected ingredients like banana and orgeat, catering to the trend of zero-proof cocktails.”
The door to Lord Elgin is in fact rapturous. It contradicts expectations and sets some new ones. It lays out a friendly perch at its many snug corners wrapped in glasshouse walls and sky-facing ceiling, looking outward yet inward. For diners, the restaurant could be a portal to Amritsar’s progressive food directions. Or it could simply be the world’s most tempting inspirations served together with the city’s regional savoir-faire.
When Ramya Dwarakanath and Rohit Nambiar of ROAR Design Studio were tasked with imagining the canvas of Pincode 24, a lively new resto-bar in Bengaluru’s Hebbal — they evidently chose substance over style. “We decided to explore an industrial style for the aesthetics, while incorporating a sense of ease. Elements with a rustic appeal were added with a touch of softscape,” shares Ramya, the founding partner alongside Rohit.
Layered with an avant-garde touch, the distinctively contemporary interiors are sprinkled with contrasting elements like a rustic terracotta partition wall, contemporary light fixtures, low and high wooden seated tables and eye-catching artworks — all of which serve as vignettes of the neighbourhood’s storied past.
Metallics meet concrete
The breezy and inviting ambience of this multi-storeyed bistro-bar echoes the duo’s unpretentious design sensibilities. Wrapped in varying shades of greys and browns, with splashes of green in the form of lush indoor plants that infiltrate the bar area, the interiors brim with vibrancy. A varied use of metallic surfaces and concrete-like flooring are juxtaposed with terracotta and wooden elements to infuse warmth into the space.
“Our favourite space must be the double-volumed seating within the large glossy bar,” Ramya chimes in, with an evident glimmer in her eyes. From the mirror-like copper backdrop of the bottle displays, fluid yet curvilinear patterned and expanded metal mesh plane ceiling and live edge countertop, to popping herringbone patterned wall tiles; the lively bar area comprises an array of design elements that appear to co-exist in a synergy of sorts.
“Any visitor with a keen eye who had seen the location before its transformation might notice the old coconut tree in its original position, as well as the reuse of antecedent decorative columns to frame the bar,” details Rohit Nambiar, the other founding partner of the design firm. Above the entrance, bang opposite the bar is the performance area, where various artists have room to perform, or against which events can be viewed on a drop-down screen. “The position of it provides good visibility from almost all locations that a customer might position themselves at,” he muses.
Transitions that beguile
The transition from the cosier decorated ceiling of this new bar in Bengaluru to its soaring ceiling above the seating, filtered with natural light from the clerestory window, creates a cosy but equally refined ambience, creating a blend of privacy and connection.
To speak of challenges, Dwarakanath cites how achieving the right configuration for the roof was the most challenging part of this design. “Balancing the overall square footprint of the roof with adequate sloping for rainwater drainage, while also providing proper surfaces for mounting lights to ensure optimal illumination to the seating layout below, required multiple iterations to perfect,” she avers.
Built on the ethos of a design philosophy that prides itself on creating comfy yet versatile and user-centric spaces, it’s tough to place a finger on what the piece de resistance here is. So, let’s just say, Pincode 24 puts its patrons at ease, as the onus is on serving up good grub and glug within this cosy hub, which lets you be. And, in all honesty, it works.
An intoxicated tiger with bombil fish in its teeth’s grips? This is a fantastical emblem that defines the soul of Bombay Daakthe new bar in Mumbai dubbed as an exciting, revolutionary take on India’s desi watering holes.
In Bengali households, a folk story often heard is that of a cat with fish in its mouth. “The sight of this is a bad omen. A metaphor for sin. Debauchery. Indulgence. Pleasure. All things we entertain at Bombay Daak!” Says chef Niyati Rao @chefniyatirao who coined this conceptual outpost with Sagar Neve. ELLE DECOR India’s visit here in a bylane of Bandra, reveals a 30-seater intimate bar and a busy open kitchen with Bappi Lahiri and R.D. Burman’s retro playlist roaring joyously in the background. It is a playlist party for the kitchen crew after 9 pm, confirms Niyati. A meal and rounds of drinks at Bombay Daak could easily be a cinematic scene from an old, vintage Bombay bar!
From hyperlocal cocktails and swadeshi drinks to chakna-style regional recipes: the bar is no less than a book of stories and flavour cultures sourced from around vast stretches of Indian states. All of it concocted into a lip-smacking menu. Indulgence, pleasure…we warned you!
Yes, we’ve given in to the puppy eyes. From picturesque cottages to decadently lush villas, we’ve collated a list of retreats, boutique stays and hotels that cater to both the design aficionado and pet parent within you. Let your pets pick, choose and sniff the finer things in life with these 8-holiday destinations you must visit with them in tow.
RAAS Devigarh, Rajasthan
Did you know they used to worship cats in ancient Egypt? Cat or not, let your beloved pet experience the royal treatment at RAAS Devigarh. Located an hour’s drive from Udaipur, the 18th-century palace embodies grandeur seeped in tranquillity. The resort’s age-old marble structure houses minimalist interiors conceptualised by Studio Lotus.
As the sun sets, end the day soaking in the lush view from one of many Jharokhas. If your pet gets antsy indoors, visit one of many historical sites nearby or embark upon a heritage walk in Delwara.
On the hunt for a truly refreshing restart? Nestled away from the city close to the Delhi-Haridwar highway, Namaste Dwaar is a retreat envisioned by Pradeep Sachdeva. Amid sprawling Charbagh-inspired gardens, the resort’s earthy haveli-like architecture emerges as a reclusive spot ideal for those weary of the city. Multiple cupolas crown its brick-clad rustic buildings that feature extensive timberwork, inspired by early traditional architectural practices.
Dating back to more than a century ago, Elgin Hall. is a boutique hotel that once functioned as a retreat for British royals. As the English love their corgis (the former queen of Britain famously owned 30 of them across her long reign), one can expect a getaway well-spent for both pets and pet parents alike within its confines. Revamped by owner Kavish Khurana with furnishings by Nivasa, each hand-picked detail gushes with warmth.
Pops of colour permeate, right from the purple facade to the varied palette within, punctuated by regal chandeliers, snug carpets and furniture plucked straight out of the Victorian era. Enshrouded by picturesque hills in Dalhousie, bask in the space’s heritage indoors and revel in a luxe staycation. Visitors need to book the entire villa to bring their pets along. Let them enjoy the European summer of a lifetime!
A Tennyson poem comes to life within East India House, perched upon a hill a few hours away from the bustle of Mumbai in Uttan. A languid stream trickles down its surroundings, the serendipitous structure containing a treat for the senses within. Designed by Rohan Salian of the Black Sheep Farm, Partner and Architect at East India House, the sloping roofs hide within many new avenues to explore. An aquamarine infinity pool and ponds punctuated by lillies lay within. The sprawling gardens are perfect for a game of fetch or quality time spent head-scratching and petting your furbabies.
Watch the sun set and rise from the deck, snuggling with your furry baby at the Sky Villa. In tandem with its name, the structure is enveloped in glass across its facade overlooking the seemingly never-ending horizon. Boundaries between the indoors and the outdoors cease to exist within this structure, designed by Ajay Sonar and Monali Patil of the firm a for architecture.
The villa’s minimal exteriors and interiors encompass a riot of textures, warm, balmy wood and an overhanging deck perfect for watching the sun rise and set in a languid rhythm. Perched on the banks of the Gangapur Dam in a village named Gangavhare, the gentle sound of water rippling nearby only adds to the space’s tranquillity.
Grasshopper-green grass wraps the land, crawling up to Anantha’s outpost with wild abandon. Designed by Studio PKA, the villa is situated atop a hill landlocked by the Western Ghats, its architecture echoing the contours of the land. Fans of Tetris would delight in its jigsaw-like structure, constructed block by block. Unbuilt, open spaces have been maintained to ensure the site’s natural state is unaltered by the villa’s construction. The result? A series of vantage points unveil multiple perspectives of the stunning vistas.
Craving a bonfire under the starlit sky? A swim in the edgeless swimming pool overlooking the lake? A trek through the hills nearby, teeming with biodiversity and lush vegetation? The possibilities are endless for both you and your furry friends within this getaway you may just never wish to leave.
The Himalayas are a mighty force of nature to reckon with, boasting of an equally compelling view. Soak it all in at The Kumaon, a retreat located on the outskirts of Gadholi village in Almora, Uttarakhand. The space has been brought to life by Zowa Architects. Conceptualised by Dr Vikrom Mathur, an avid environment enthusiast with over 20 years of research under his belt, its design alludes to abstract modernism. The minimal palette lets the picturesque backdrop shine in all its glory, snow-capped mountains piercing the vistas beyond.
Bask in the view from one of the chalets positioned over the view, engage in some birdwatching during the day and swap it for some constellation spotting in the endless night sky. The best part? It boasts of a few furry friends of its own! Introduce your pets to Juna and Elsa, arguably the most adorable trekking partners ever.
How would it feel to live in a forest? Curving paths, criss-crossing canopies made of wood and organic forms within Maativan Wada offer a novel take on the experience. Cleverly echoing its surroundings, the 6,000 sq ft farmhouse wraps itself across the lush perimeter of the Tansa forest in Wada, Maharashtra. A masterclass in biophilic adventure ensues, helmed by Prashant Dupare and Shriya Parasrampuria of Blurring Boundaries.
Open courtyards decorated by elaborate stonework, asymmetric houses constructed out of mud and communal spaces decorated with recycled materials add to the space’s rustic charm. Vernacular construction practices have been utilised to craft the winding, airy layout, ensuring the space remains cool all year round. Delight in the novelties the space has to offer for an experience like no other.
At one with Ladakh’s mountainous terrain, Shel’s austere grey structure is enlivened by almost golden-hued wood sourced from willow and poplar trees surrounding the site. Intricate carvings and architectural elements inspired by local buildings crown the facade, envisioned and created by Phenotype Architecture Studio. Minimal yet evocative, it is a getaway surrounded by snowy peaks perched above the banks of the Indus River. Large windows frame the picturesque view, interiors laden with texture owing to the abundance of unfinished wood and mud bricks used to build the homestay.
The space looks minuscule against the expansive landscape, an intentional scale difference that heightens the experience and makes you feel truly at one with nature. Drift off to sleep below the stars underneath a skylight positioned above one of the bedrooms. Start the day by indulging in Ladakhi cuisine or enjoy uninterrupted moments of leisure with your beloved pet in this oasis of calm.
There is no prim and proper way to eat a burger. But that’s what makes it so irresistible. For the longest time, this sinful indulgence has been the antithesis of elegance, taking the crown as the poster child of fast food. But times have changed, and so has the burger. ELLE DECOR India highly recommends these 10+ best burgers in Mumbai, Delhi and Bengaluru. But on a zesty scale of spiciness.
While the versatility of the beloved burger is never under question, the rain-soaked weather demands a hot take. Like any serious connoisseur, we grade these burgers on a 5 chilli level.
The rains got you cancelling plans? While we may not be able to provide a shoulder to cry on, we can recommend something to expedite the happy tears. Starting off strong, infamous for the Bhoot burger, Good Flippin’ brings you the spiciest chilli from the Northeast but in a milder format (phew!) The Saucy Clucker has a sweet side too with a smoky BBQ sauce coating the crispy fried chicken.
Chard, Delhi – 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
We love our fried chicken. But when it comes to finding the best burgers in Mumbai and Delhi, it’s time to up the spice level. With a double act of jalapenos and ghost chilli rub, the Hot Fried Chicken burger from Chard is a bombshell in the disguise of a burger. Might we add, that the pear slaw acts as a welcome relief?
Louis (multiple locations) – 🌶️🌶️🌶️
After K-dramas, K-pop, Kimchi and Kimbap, here’s the next Korean sensation we can’t get enough of. The crowning glory of Louis’ Korean Fried Chicken Burger is the hot and sweet Korean sauce, and of course the fried chicken.
Fan of truffles? (Who isn’t?) You’ll love their Truffletake Burger overflowing with shitake and shimeji mushrooms, truffle mayo, truffles, English cheddar, parmesan, gold warak and truffle oil to soothe the spice. Be it Mumbai, Delhi or Bengaluru, the best burgers have penchant for bling.
Jimis Burger (multiple locations) – 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Is it peri-peri or piri-piri? We cannot settle this debate but we can endorse the limelight enjoyed by this Portuguese spice. Jimis Burger’sPeri Peri Paneer and Peri Peri Chicken burgers bring together house spiced grilled steaks, caramelised onion, pickled onion and peri mayo and a dash of hot sauce. Brownie points for the crispy potato sticks!
Basco and Fry, Bengaluru – 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Everyone keeps raving about the Bengaluru weather. But sweater weather in monsoon just does not sit right with us. Can the solution come with a side of fries? The Nashville Hot Chicken burger from Basco And Fry certainly does. Consider yourself warned, the Tennessee heat might leave your tastebuds screaming while reaching for seconds.
And for the fanciest of us, spice suits up in the sophisticated Bougie Hamburger. “The kind of burger you’d eat with your pinky finger raised,” claim its creators. A Charred tenderloin patty, arugula, hot cheese mix, house special jus and red wine cabbage, need we say more?
CUR8 Four Seasons, Bengaluru – 🌶️🌶️
While we love a lip-smacking burger, the appeal of food extends beyond the palette. The Four Seasons Southern Style Fried Chicken Burger goes overseas to dive into African-American culinary heritage.
With red cabbage slaw, cheddar cheese and barbecue sauce complimenting the golden crust, it’s a visual feast as well. These full flavours pair well with the earthy aroma of petrichor
Veronica’s, Mumbai – 🌶️
Broccoli always gets a bad rep but have you seen its hot new makeover? Veronica’s jumps on the make-greens-cool-again campaign with their unconventional Bandra Bro-ccoli Falafel Burger.
Between a Dutch crunch bun and in the company of crispy falafel, creamy garlic labneh, sharp cheddar, tomatoes and lettuce, broccoli gets its act together. But a zesty jalapeno herb sauce makes this burger born in the queen of Mumbai’s suburbs an irresistible catch.
Sly Granny, Delhi – 🌶️
Grandmas know best but Sly Granny might know better. A bite of this Sly 9 is a ticket to Cloud 9.
On the milder side of the spice scale, this burger with a tenderloin patty and mustard aioli with pickles packs a pungent punch.
Berliner Bar, Mumbai -🍦(outlier)
All that spice got you craving something sweet? You’ll find Berliner Bar’s Whiskey Bacon Jam Sliders are an indulgent choice. A perfect combination of flavours, this barside find is the best companion on your night out and perhaps also on the morning after.
Team ELLE DECOR India says…
Walters, Mumbai – 🌶️🌶️
A burger is like a skyscraper. No matter how hard-hitting the spice, the structure needs to withstand the bite. And while we love a messy burger moment, sometimes you need your spice delivered in a convenient package.
Walter’s is an ode to the namesake creator who invented the one-handed burger in 1921. With a generous dusting of Sriracha, the Hot Fried Chicken burger stands out from the rest. Looking for a vegetarian option? Spicy Peruvian Potato Burger brings an ingenious flavour profile with its Jalapeno salsa and the Truffle Shroomson Burger sports a delectable mushroom patty, smoked gouda, shiitake mushrooms and black gold sauce. Their OG Smashed Lamb Burger deserves a special mention too! While we all agree that the burgers travelled well and retained their crunch, it was also their new-age pink packaging that sealed the deal for us. “Despite the Hot Fried Chicken burger’s compact size, the slider was quite filling,” notes Junior Features Writer Chiransha Prasad.
Sloppy Bros, Mumbai – 🌶️
The Vada Pav is an all-season pick-me-up but it’s even better in the rain. But can vada pavs be considered burgers? This unconventional creation by Sloppy Bros leaves us questioning yet wanting more.
Dubbed Sloppy Vada Pav, its roasted sweet potato and pumpkin tikki is coated in their in-house sauce and sandwiched between a burger bun slathered with tomato chutney. What did ED think? “If you try to overcomplicate simple basic stuff which are classics for a reason you end up ruining it, this does not do that,” adds Managing Editor Shriti Das. Another glowing review comes from Junior Graphic Designer Sakshi Shrivastava, “I’m going to replace my regular vada pav with the Vada Pav 2.0!”
As India surfs the wave of rapid urbanisation, the concept of cafés in India has undergone an evident revamp. How we experience these spaces, solo or in company, alongside the crucial flavour of caffeine and good food has become a thing of routine and an equal intrigue.
The cafes have always been the most sought-after pockets of escape without disconnecting you from the magnetism of real life itself. This is exactly what Greenr-Strangr, a cafe nestled in the bustling market of New Delhi’s Greater Kailash I does.
Inside a heritage bungalow
When every health enthusiast’s favourite community-restaurant Greenr collaborated with the visual storytelling collective Studiio Dangg, the goal was singular — to foster communities in a space that’s meticulously pieced together to feel like home.
Set in an idyllic heritage bungalow and dubbed Greenr-Strangr, the cafe is transformed into an artistic neighbourhood collective, spanning two floors and a stunning terrace, while astutely preserving its cosy charm. “A liaison with co-founder of Greenr Mohit Yadav, the idea was to magnify what the cafe already stood for. The space had to be designed to feel like a home. From familiar faces and community gatherings to vertically sprawling masses that overlay a blanket of comfort and conversation,” explains principal architect Manav Dangg.
Levels and layers
As you enter the sleek metal and glass door, a tone of intricate quirks is persistent throughout as a homage to the nostalgic home that once housed different generations. On the first floor, a live kitchen window tiled with pink mosaic rests atop an unveiled, blemished counter. The seating area is snug between walls that either retain their vintage flaws or are freshly painted, standing in contrast to the brick-and-mortar. The juxtaposition of the new and the old emulates the design dialogue of a rustic home being run as a family-esque café. “The indoor material palette is purposely made to be neutral slate, to draw out the red of the bricks sporadically spanning across various walls,” says Manav.
As one ascends the staggered staircase, the second floor carries the textural conversation forward with an added twist. A massive floor cut-out in the centre overlooks the counter downstairs, while a wrap-around library offers an intimate setting reminiscent of a living room. Through the two levels, a sense of visual interaction emerges.
Bar but better
The terrace harbours Strangr, an unconventional bar best characterised by its terracotta bricks from roof to floor that create a cohesive material sandwich. The continual concrete benches lined with a splatter of cushions and thrifted peg tables clubbed with an old-school bar, insinuate the spirit of many mini groups becoming one, much like a soiree. The eclectic mix of vintage and contemporary elements draws out the “just moved in” essence of the space.
An outstanding example of an adaptive reuse project, Greenr-Strangr was team Studiio Dangg’s vision to allow the context to speak for itself and engage with people. “The site upon our arrival, we observed, felt akin to a relinquished residence where a lot of families lived through the ages, and spun their own stories,” reveals Manav. He wanted the additions to be minimal and compliment the space, rather than overpower it.
The decision to retain Greenr’s blemished characteristics is wittily navigated to retain the feeling of an erstwhile home now occupied by its lively new residents — honouring its past in the present under the ethos of simplicity and comfort.
As the doors close with a gentle woosh, the bustle of Churchgate and Mumbai’s thunderous monsoon ceases to exist beyond the glass doors of Gaylord. Beyond the al fresco dining area, the grandeur of the dining space resembles something straight out of The Great Gatsby.
The space’s universal appeal is starkly apparent. An elderly couple sits in the dining space, video-calling their relatives. The shaky, handheld phone pans the lower dining space, emanating gasps of disbelief over the restaurant’s new look from the other end. If your company is not the most exciting, all one has to do is look outwards through the latticework and watch the bustling area at a comfortable distance.
Within the restaurant’s plush mezzanine, a mocktail christened Mohabat Sharbat inspired by a popular drink sold in Delhi’s Chandni Chowk on the menu comes as a refreshing interlude. It is lively, even during the odd, sluggish hours after lunch that precede teatime. The restaurant sprawls across 3,750 sq ft, designed by Rohit Sharma and Siddhartha Srivastava of Headlight Design Studio. Its new avatar has been crafted under the aegis of the restaurant’s third-generation owners Dhruv and Divij Lamba.
All that Jazz and more
In its heyday, the restaurant used to be a buzzing spot for music lovers hosting endless jazz nights and candlelit ballroom dances. Noel D’Souza, the general manager, reminisces about the olden days with a chuckle, stating “They used to say marriages were made in heaven and blessed at Gaylord. That was my favourite line.” He confesses to spending many years watching families meet across the table, the bride’s and the groom’s side bashfully sitting on opposite ends. But it’s not just real stories that took life at Gaylord Mumbai, the space also has its fair share of the reel life ( and no, we’re not talking about the social media frenzy).
Old black-and-white photographs dating back to the 1950s of its illustrious visitors line the walls, ranging from Bollywood stalwarts like Rajesh Khanna to fashion icons like Christian Louboutin. One can spot groups of onlookers circling the pictures at any point of the day, engaging in a gripping game of guess-who-that-is trivia.
And the way you look tonight
Housing a bakehouse eternally teeming with people to the left, the al-fresco dining area comprises big, beige chairs stationed around wooden tables, with plush, striped couches to the side. A touch of Parisienne chic in Mumbai, a la Churchgate ensues.
Gigantic, semi-circular windows provide a peek of the warm dining space within as red opera-style curtains line the sides. The lower dining area brims with warmth, well-lit and accompanied by live music reverberating across its expanse. As one climbs upwards into the mezzanine, the lights grow dimmer, the space becomes cosier and a plethora of reds and blacks replace the beiges found downstairs.
Mirrors and stained glass windows have been affixed to the ceiling, drawing eyes upwards. The bar is a plush, glossy addition that is distinctly Art Deco in its appeal. Black and white cabinets sport hints of gold, lit aglow by tiny lamps positioned in between. As one walks through the space, it is clear — the roaring twenties are roaring again, indeed.
Out of the box
Within the menu, Mahesh Solanki, head mixologist at Gaylord, has chosen Indian spices and delicacies to infuse your poison of choice with a desi twist. From turmeric and sandalwood syrup to your favourite Banarasi paan, indulge in cocktails and mocktails that derive inspiration from India’s famous (and incredibly sought-after, as history would prove) spices and flavours.
As for the food, Gaylord retains its place as a purveyor of the classics once again, armed with a few new additions to seal the deal. A British classic, their Fish and Chips are a mouthwatering duo, accompanied by a plethora of English staples such as Vegetarian club sandwiches and a mammoth-sized portion of juicy roast chicken and bacon.
However, the Masala lamb chops hailing from the Indian menu came packing a flavourful punch that even our ancestors would be proud of. A new addition making the rounds is the “Lobster Thermidor, bathed in a decadent mushroom cream sauce,” as the founding duo Dhruv and Divij describe — a suggestion we will certainly be circling back to.
Keeping with the times, these changes seek to usher in a new era that is certainly one for the books. Or as the younger crowd would say — the chefs are cooking, the mixologists are mixing, and Gaylord is well, ehm, Gaylording like never before.
Art meets luxury. Craftsmanship meets curiosity. Fashion meets storytelling. The newest crop of fashion and design stores in India are many steps beyond the indulgent concept of retail therapy. You go for the ensembles but stay for its interiors and the decorative details. Sounds fair?
ELLE DECOR India assembles a list of stunning fashion and design stores in India. From artistic details to statement structures, each store is aremarkable exploration of design, culture and innovation.
1. Aanchal Vijaywargi, Hyderabad
For Aanchal Vijaywargi’s chic women’s wear brand, the architects at NaaV Studio have executed a clever design that borrows from a Sanskrit word, eklaap — translating to monologue. In similar spirits, the design plays witfully with a monochrome palette and minimalistic design sensibilities. Lime-plastered walls and terrazzo flooring accompanied by glass panelling, add to the delicate aesthetic of the boutique.
2. Abraham & Thakore, Delhi
A collaborative design with Studio Organon, the flagship store in Delhi measures a grand 2,000 sq ft of novelty, honouring the brand’s new narrative for Indian couture. The space exudes sophistication with a palette of neutral tones and marble detailing, embodying their vision for modern luxury.
3. Adityavardhan, Mumbai
Spanning 500 sq ft, the menswear store in Mumbai is carefully designed to reflect Adityavardhan’s refined taste and sophistication. FN Design Studio and Shiraz Jamali Architects’ design welcomes patrons with an elegant arched storefront, clean lines and muted colours define the ambience, allowing the ornate garments to take centre stage.
4. Araya, Dubai
Resting within Dubai’s esteemed Almas Tower, the luxurious fine jewellery store showcases a spatial masterpiece envisioned by Aashni Kumar. Its minimalist open layout, accentuated by expansive floor-to-ceiling windows creates a stunning visual experience. Artistic display cases command attention with their striking design.
5. CrepDog Crew (CDC), Mumbai
With India’s growing interest in sneaker culture, Anchit Kapil, Bharat Mehrotra and Shaurya Kumar teamed up to shape CrepDog Crew (CDC), a sneaker haven of its kind. The store aptly embodies the brand identity with a curious range of furniture bursting into neon hues. CDC in Mumbai is envisioned such to resemble a Scandinavian art gallery, bringing forth designers as artists and their kicks as art. When visiting the Mumbai store, gaze at their sneaker wall that measures a staggering 58 ft by 12 ft.
6. Dharki, Mumbai
Dharki, a renowned couture brand celebrating handloom textiles, is now housed in the multi-designer store Mélange. Situated in South Mumbai, the Mélange store is a charming historical building, ageing over 100 years, skillfully repurposed by Sangita Kathiwada in the late 90’s. The store is inspired by Sangita’s nani’s cupboards from the haveli where she spent her childhood in central India. Apart from being a visual delight, the cabinetry is a faithful reflection of the rich cultural tradition of weaving in India.
7. Ecstasy, Mumbai
Ecstasy opens its door to the mystic world of Italian embroidery with a store in Mumbai. Covering 1,850 sq ft, Aum Architects crafts an astute design direction with stainless steel displays suspended in an inky backdrop of bold and dark hues, captivating the visitors. The space makes an exquisite use of mirrors, adding to the enchanting narrative of the store.
8. Hermès, Mumbai
The iconic luxury fashion house Hermès has opened its second store at Jio World Plaza in Mumbai. Parisian architecture firm RDAI realised a subtle yet sumptuous design in a dynamic fusion of orange, beige and tinges of other colours perfectly capturing the spirit of the city. An enchanting window installation poses at the front, too, curated by Indian production designer and filmmaker Aradhana Seth, inspired by Madhya Pradesh’s Gond art and various visual references to Hermès’ history.
9. Jayanti Reddy, Mumbai
With meticulous attention to detail and a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, Jayanti Reddy’s brand reflects a timeless elegance infused with contemporary sensibilities. The new Jayanti Reddy store in Mumbai is a creative reimagination of a century-old structure that once housed heavy machinery. With a muted colour palette and many wooden features that have been meticulously restored, Mouna Reddy’s design preciously maintains the old-world charm that adds to the store’s rich earthiness.
10. JJ Valaya-Kapurthala, Delhi
The all-new opening of JJ Valaya-Kapurthala (JJV) in the ever-teeming Dhan Mill compound in New Delhi celebrates the legacy of the regal couture that the master designer JJ Valaya has been crafting for decades. Drawing inspiration from the rich history and cultural heritage of Kapurthala, a princely state in Punjab, the store is designed by Valaya Home blending modern and maximalist elements. In bold charcoal hues, the storefront wears the signature chevron pattern of shifting leaves. While inside the flagship store, the interiors exhibit bespoke carpets, terrazzo floors, grand chandeliers and Valaya’s travel photography on the walls, painting a fitting representation for the label.
11. Kawaakari, Ahmedabad
Rupali’s Kawaakari specialises in handcrafted luxury accessories and intricately woven women’s clothing. With gracious curves and a burgundy-themed store, Verizon Architects’ Akhil Gajjar, Ravi Pipalia and Yash Vachhani embrace the brand’s style statement with grace through their design. A central mushroom column stands out amidst the soft utopian ambience with hues of burgundy bringing it all together.
12. Zariin, New Delhi
Anjali Aggarwal, Founder-Principal Architect of Karigar Design Studio makes intelligent use of a 250 sq ft architecturally fascinating space to showcase Zariin’s enigmatic jewellery pieces. Arched windows, a subdued colour palette with easy yellows and greens outside are all a part of her brilliant design scheme to breathe an air of sophistication into the store. “The strategic placement of the skylight over an already existing tree in the centre is a nod to ancient monuments, where nature intertwines with architecture,” she sums up.
13. Zwaan, New Delhi
Founded by Tanvi Sawlani, Zwaan’s creations are a retelling of the modern values of empowerment and femininity. Envisioned by Designer and Engineer Eshita Marwah of her practice /e the abstraction of female figures across various elements emerge at the flagship store in Dhan Mill, New Delhi as a celebration of curves. Mellow tones and an open plan that allows intuitive wayfinding create an immersive experience.
Fantastic collectibles and where to find them: Well, Salone del Mobile 2024 at Milan Design Week, of course. Flip through the pages to see what caught our eye from nouveau collections, design covetables, ingenious installations and more
PRODUCED BY MRUDUL PATHAK KUNDU
1. MINOTTI
Part of their 2024 Outdoor Collection, Minotti’s Drake Dining set-up exudes the comfort and panache of your indoor spaces within the al fresco environment. The Italian brand also brings this mindful Mid-century Modern savoir-faire in their 2024 Indoor Collection. A sublime setting for you to lounge lavishly this season.
Visual artist and designer Andrés Reisinger presents an experiential exhibition titled 12 Chairs for Meditation at the atrium of Nilufar’s Viale Lancetti. Curated by Reisinger and Nilufar’s founder, Nina Yashar, the multisensorial theatrical expression unveils a collection of chairs and a site-specific mosaic along with a musical composition by the artist.
Solid yet woven? Baxter’s rosewood lacquered LOOM table, part of their indoor furniture collection, blends parametric technology with rhythm and imagination. Encapsulating the brand’s tryst with technique and craftsmanship, it is set to infuse a dramatic dynamism into your space.
Leather and furniture are fast friends. Ludovica Serafini and Roberto Palomba reinvent this classic combination for Fendi Casa, much like their longstanding collaboration. The F-Stripe sofa decked in neutrals, sports a play of material and lines. Paired with signature silhouettes, the creation promises elegance and character.
Indian artistry stuns the Italian fair through carpets by cc-tapis. Designer India Mahdavi spins this Criss Cross collection of carpets in collaboration with the brand. A reinterpretation of the tartan pattern, this chain-stitched and hand-tufted rug is available in a melange of shades highlighting her distinct visual language.
Mater joins designer Patricia Urquiola to use waste wisely. The Danish green tech design brand presents their Alder collection starring Matek, their blend of biodegradable plastic derived from sugarcane with coffee residue and wooden fibres. Rest your cup of joe on the side table or perch with a purpose on their plush stools.
Grace — a fitting descriptor for this lamp as lithe as a paper lantern. In his first collaboration with the brand, Daniele Lo Scalzo Moscheri highlights the sartorial strength of Natevo, a brand under Flou. Floating above the pedestal with a warm glow, this lamp embodies an ethereal lightness.
Revealing the nouveau indoor and outdoor collection, Molteni&C celebrates its 90th anniversary. Here, Vincent Van Duysen’s modular transformation of the original Augusto sofa proves how their design language is in constant evolution.
The Atelier collection designed by Matteo Nunziati for Turri embodies the culture of Italian artistry. His Atelier coffee tables stand out with their leather structure and buckles, translating the craftsmanship and cues of the fashion world into interiors.
Classic silhouettes and colourful fabrics. A (mix and) match made in furniture heaven? In a confluence of creative energies, Kartell and Liberty turn a new chapter for contemporary living on the latter’s 150th anniversary. A dialogue of decorative arts ensues as the legacies of the two brands meld together to add a flair to your transversal lifestyle.
Inspired by the precise art of crafting a Kimono, the Origata bench by Nao Tamura features an austere structure crafted from an aluminium sheet cut up and affixed through screws to minimise wastage.
Mumbai and Milan, two urban environments full of life and culture make a dramatic debut in this Zig Zag handmade carpet collection by Jaipur Rugs and DAAA Haus. The monochrome canvas mirrors the mosaics of antiquity and is brought to life with a playful stitch of colour —- a glimmer of life.
Careful, the Squash armchair is too hard (or soft) to resist. Who doesn’t daydream about sinking into a bed of clouds? The Italian heritage brand collaborates with British designer Faye Toogood to sculpt this desire into reality. Plush and playful, this leather seat is a part of Poltrona Frau’s 2024 Imagine collection.
Bubbles are a crowd-pleaser and so is this luxurious cabinet dubbed Agharti by Davide Sozzi for Promemoria. Shrinking, growing and disappearing in a rhythmic ballad, this Euclidean rendition introduces the impeccably imperfect texture of terracotta into the brand’s design language.
The Italian furniture manufacturer corrals narratives of modern living. Porro conjures the warmth of a home in the Romby armchairs by GamFratesi. Their geometric and retro allure bestows an abstract charm to your space.
Nanimarquina and Sabine Finkenauer trace the form of a pearl bead into minimalist rugs and runners. In a composition of earthy yet soulful shades, the Pearl collection is an ode to ancestral weaving techniques.
B&B Italia offers its Bambola armchairs in a nouveau avatar. Originally a part of Le Bambole collection designed by Mario Bellini in 1972, the new colourways are flamboyant and fun. What’s better? These are now fit for the outdoors, making it too tempting to cancel your evening plans.
“A chair is a very difficult object,” confessed Modernist master Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. In a reissue of the iconic 1929 Tugendhat Chair designed by van der Rohe and Lilly Reich, Knoll reveals two finishes and a melange of upbeat upholstery options. Less is now most definitely more.
Deriving inspiration from the regenerative power of water, Gessi forays into wellness with their new collection dubbed Sensazioni or Sensations. Rounded shapes crafted from glass are wrapped with a metal band, the weave-like finish elevating this water source into an artistic accessory.
A classical sculpture shares halves of a glass mosaic with a manga character in this limited edition artwork by Daniel Arsham for Bisazza. Titled Fractured Idols 1 Mosaic, the piece alludes to the frailty of human existence across time, materialising in a sense of fragmentation.
The Starck Barrel designed by Philippe Starck, celebrated its 30th anniversary with new lacquer variants of the timeless design that resembles a bucket underneath a tap. The c-bonded washbasin finished with HygeineGlaze Plus, is a functional classic.
The Archimedes Chandelier is a striking lighting fixture carved out of metal by Vikram Goyal featuring hollowed-out brass twisted in an artistic, seemingly infinite loop. This piece was showcased at the Time Traveler exhibit presented by Nilufar Gallery, curated by founder Nina Yashar.
The Monolith sculpture is a 1.8-metre-tall reflective creation made of stainless steel by Indian artists Nitush and Aroosh in collaboration with Adorno Design, exhibited at Alcova 2024. Inspired by the concept of Animism, the sculpture’s narrative encompasses its viewers and its surroundings reflected across its surface.
Fine curtains and lit screens envelop the space housing Flexform’s new collection, their new Camelot seating system occupying pride of place in an exhibit dubbed Between the Folds. The brand’s distinctive design language harmonises with the space, balancing tradition with modernity.
Orange is the new black, says Kohler x SR_A in their limited-edition smart toilet Formation 02 and installation for Fuorisalone. Introducing a nouveau silhouette on Kohler’s Eir Smart Toilet, the bold industrial Haptic Orange hue pays homage to Kohler’s 1967 Tiger Lily bathroom line and SR_A’s signature colour.
The Chaise Lounge designed by Karan Desai in collaboration with Alessandro Serafini, features three ergonomic contours crafted out of marble for seating, placing a plant or even keeping belongings safe on a built-in flat surface.
Crafted by Jacopo Foggini, the Milano chair by Edra seeks to redefine royalty in the contemporary age, inspired by the Duomo di Milano. With a surreal back weaved with long, linear polymer threads that extrude, the reflective chair is crafted with translucid polychrome polycarbonate.
Marking a moment of nostalgia, Preciosa’s arresting lighting installation titled Crystal Beat 2 featured 400 pendant lights dubbed Crystal Pixels. Resembling their namesake in appearance, they are fully customisable with an RGBW lighting effect. Synchronised with a 3D sound system playing a 1980s-inspired musical soundtrack, the installation recreates the hypnotic allure of the early gaming universes drenched in vibrant hues.
Vara, designed by Imperfetto Lab’s co-founder Verter Turroni, is a fibreglass seating structure inspired by the brand’s ethos that celebrates imperfection — utilising objects of different scales and contrasting elements that elude predictability and redefine functionality.
For her third collection in collaboration with Salvatori, Patricia Urquiola forays into the bathroom. Dubbed Small Hours, her creations combine the grittiness of natural stone, understated forms and the smoothness of steel.
Cosmopolitan creativity defines Giorgetti’s 2024 collection. The Liz-valet designed by Silvia Musetti, accompanied by a bench and a console offers an organisational solution with soft silhouettes. Sporting a metal hanger rod and trouser bar with non-slip leather, the two cylinders also offer a tray for knick-knacks.
This is not your typical Ottoman. Reinterpreting its classic silhouette, this soft and supple Fedro day-bed by Studiopepe and Visionnaire is perfect for languidly lounging on weekends. Echoing the vintage allure of the 70s, this is a part of their Nomad collection.
Edward Hopper would agree that light is both a subject and a medium of expression. With Giving Emotions to Spaces, Nexion proves how light and surfaces can enhance well-being too. The theatrical play of the two took centre stage at their installation with three picturesque settings: Room by the Sea, Western Motel and Morning Sun.
The idea of Bindu plays the muse for altreforme’s new collection, similarily titled Bindoo. It features an array of playful mirrors created in collaboration with Kumar La Noce, founded by Nicola La Noce and Bhavana Kumar. The Leela mirrors comprise elementary shapes made of pure aluminium in vibrant hues, striking in their eclecticism. The creations allude to the word’s meaning in Sanskrit, which translates to the English word, point. The significance of the philosophy behind the concept of Bindoo is vast, signifying both the end and the beginning or the creation of the universe itself, embodying a balance of the feminine and the masculine. A more common rendition, the bindi, popularly adorns women’s foreheads across India.
The Teratai floor lamp by Intent Made draws inspiration from the celestial lotus, known for its grace and purity. Crafted using a traditional brass hammering technique, it captures the delicate yet resilient nature of botanical flora. The design blends craftsmanship with finesse, featuring textured surfaces and fluid lines that create a striking sculptural form. Dubbed Crafted Alchemy, the collection comprises pieces that embody contemporary Indian design, brought to life by traditional craftsmanship.