Ninkasi is a lively restaurant that beautifully weaves together Sumerian mythology
and rich Indian heritage. Named after the Sumerian goddess of beer, this space brings
the essence of celebration to life. The inspiration for this restaurant blossomed during
the client’s visit to a heritage lodge, where they envisioned a place abundant in
warmth and culture.
Project Name: Ninkasi
Studio Name: Studio Rust
Principal Architect: Ar. Sourish Rao and Ar. Nupur Sahay
Completion Year: October 2024
Photographer and Editor: Raghav Mendiratta
“When we first walked into the site, it felt so dark,” recalls Ar. Nupur. “We knew it had to be reimagined into an energetic space, where every moment feels like a colourful celebration.”
By introducing Rajasthani influences layered with bold patterns and vibrant colours throughout the restaurant, our Studio Rust team embraced a maximalist design approach.
The journey begins at the entrance, where a striking blue hand-painted mural of the goddess Ninkasi with grains greets you, setting a tone of festivity. An earthy colour palette reflects the warm tones of the desert. To strengthen this connection to rural life, we introduced cane chairs, inviting guests to settle in comfortably. In the bar area, vibrant yellow and red paintings burst with energy in the corners, reminiscent of Rajasthani folk art, while the exposed beams on the ceiling enhance the lively ambience.
When further moving inside, the design transitions gracefully from a rustic charm to royal grandeur, elevating the celebratory atmosphere. Geometric patterns in rich red and gold adorn the ceilings of the lounge, drawing inspiration from traditional frescoes. Golden arches and intricate embellishments in the doorways resemble jharokhas, transporting you to the royal courts of Udaipur. The bronze wainscoting along the lower walls invites exploration, allowing you to trace its cool, smooth surface and infusing the environment with a sense of luxury.
The walls come alive with artefacts, each piece telling tales of legacy. Katiyar, shields, and arrows echo past battles, while a statement wall in the private dining space, adorned with kavachas, pays tribute to the warriors who once wore them. Royal insignias and nostalgic portraits enrich the space, evoking the grandeur of a palace, while this thoughtfully curated collection by Aditya Raj infuses every corner with the spirit of heritage.
As you wander through the space, a charming vintage aura envelops you. Caged lights and classic Coca-Cola advertisements stir fond memories, while an antique cylindrical Kaunitz desk sparks curiosity, hinting at the stories it once held. At the heart of the restaurant, the marble bar stands as an eye-catching focal point, where a bold neon “NINKASI” sign evokes a retro feel.
At Ninkasi, embracing a heritage maximalism approach while harmonising all the elements posed an intriguing challenge. We carefully layered each detail to cultivate a vibrant ambience without overwhelming it. Classic chairs, dressed in intricate damask patterns, beautifully complement deep dark blue cushions, enhancing the sophisticated ambience. Hand-knotted Jaipur rugs contrast elegantly with the black granite flooring, infusing the space with luxury.
When you step into the private dining space, a quilted fabric ceiling envelops you, creating an intimate and warm atmosphere. Lush greenery breathes life into the space, harmonising seamlessly with the opulent tones, ensuring an experience that is rich yet never overwhelming.
To maintain a seamless flow throughout Ninkasi, we designed a smooth transition from the lounge to the bar and into the private dining space. For seating, we embraced a fresh approach, opting for curved yellow chairs set against a plush purple backdrop. This playful combination injects energy into the space, inviting guests to relax and enjoy their time.
Lighting plays a pivotal role here. The design gently highlights the art and textures without harsh glare, enhancing the overall atmosphere and encouraging guests to linger and revel in their experience.
At Ninkasi, every detail whispers a story, transcending the typical dining experience. This vibrant maximalist haven invites you into a realm where culture and colour converge, weaving a rich heritage narrative that turns each moment into a celebration of life.
