In the bustling city of Mumbai, tucked away within the walls of an old Art Deco building, lies a culinary haven that has undergone a magnificent transformation. Bombay Brasserie, a venerable brand that has stood the test of time, embarked on a journey to reinvent itself while preserving its soul. This metamorphosis was not merely a change of appearance but a celebration of India’s rich cultural heritage — a journey through the nation’s culinary landscape, from the northern peaks to the southern shores.
Project Name: Bombay Brasserie
Studio Name: ARA Designs
Location: Colaba, Mumbai
Year: 2023
Area: 3,000 sq.ft
Photo credits: Santosh Kardak
From hand-woven textile rolls, iconic tin tiffins and hand-painted wooden dolls for wall art, banana lead fibre as a backdrop to terrazzo tiles for the flooring and vibrant hand-woven kites on the ceiling, our interiors are a fruition of the rich hues, different textures, iconic handicraft techniques, and vibrant patterns that are the essence of our nation’s heritage. A celebration of India’s rich heritage, combining traditional elements and an aesthetic modern design with the epochal art deco style to create a truly unique and captivating spacial experience to embark on a brand new culinary journey.
Reviving a long-standing brand while upholding its essential principles was the aim of the Bombay Brasserie project. Without sacrificing the brand’s cultural significance, the client aimed to give it a fresh, contemporary look. The intention was to create a space that would showcase the country’s rich culinary heritage from north to south. The challenge for the design team was to ensure that the area maintained the spirit of the former brand while including modern elements that would appeal to a new demographic. The goal was to enhance the restaurant’s vibrant, ethnically diverse atmosphere while maintaining its distinctiveness.
When visitors enter Bombay Brasserie, they are greeted with a serene veranda with verdant foliage, beckoning them to stop and enjoy the anticipation of what is to come. As you enter, a magnificent double-height room is revealed that resembles a traditional Indian home’s charming courtyard. Mirrors reflect the complex world of kites dancing overhead, marking the beginning of the art of storytelling. These kites, representing celebration and solidarity, intertwine India’s many cultural strands.
A splendid Art Deco bar stands to the right, offering delectable drinks to complement the culinary delights that are in store. Chennai sarees gracefully decorate the walls on the opposite corner, honouring vivid colours and creative themes from the South. This careful arrangement of components acts as a gentle reminder that Bombay Brasserie is more than simply food — it’s a voyage through the diverse flavours, hues, and customs of the nation. On a balcony with hand-carved Rajasthani tables that highlight the state’s rich cultural heritage, the tour comes to a close. The experience is seamless and engrossing, with a story presented in every nook and cranny due to the meticulous material mix.
The design team selected a tasteful yet understated colour scheme that was primarily white. Showing off the colourful cultural components that add life to the room is made possible by the white Art Deco design. The staircase and railings’ thoughtfully placed wooden details provide a cosy and inviting atmosphere while serving as a reflection of the earthiness and simplicity of Indian customs.
A carefully chosen selection of different art forms that decorate the Bombay Brasserie project is its most captivating feature. Every component honours India’s diverse cultural heritage, from the kites to the wooden dolls, from the sarees to the Rajasthani sculptures. The restaurant stands out for its distinctive fusion of cultural artifacts, which produces an immersive dining experience that transcends the senses.
Bombay Brasserie’s rebranding was not without its difficulties. The design team created a fresh concept while respecting the building’s renowned Art Deco legacy by deftly navigating the challenges of working inside an old structure. The team’s success also depended on their capacity to comprehend and concur with the client’s goals, resulting in a tasteful fusion of the traditional and the modern.
The excellent blending of historic ambience and modern cultural moods is demonstrated by the makeover of Bombay Brasserie. Through a carefully curated collection of artwork and artifacts, the restaurant showcases India’s culinary and cultural heritage, offering visitors a fascinating journey through the diverse fabric of the nation. Bombay Brasserie will be a popular destination for many years to come thanks to the intentional preservation of the original brand’s charm combined with a contemporary twist. The lead designer, who created the incredible makeover, will always hold a particular place in his heart for this project.
