This restaurant in Surat fuses contemporary sensibilities and the rustic warmth of brick

The dome-like structure, the highlight of this restaurant in Surat’s design, demanded much architectural finesse. This unique structure instantly captures attention, setting the tone for the dining experience. Since the restaurant is located in a commercial building, permissions had to be sought for this intervention. “The curvature of the ceiling has been meticulously controlled to create an inviting spatial flow, achieving an equilibrium between openness and intimacy,” says Chinmay. “The meticulous arrangement of bricks across vast surfaces ensures that the space retains a raw, organic appeal while maintaining a refined, elegant aesthetic.”

The 12-foot-high ceiling enabled flexi-ply masking on aluminium supports. The brick cladding was thus securely anchored. Its weight was certainly a concern, but the trio’s calculations showed them that it did not exceed that of marble flooring, which the slab was engineered to hold. The logic was that the weight suspended below a slab could well be the same as the weight it was designed to hold up, without compromising safety.

The space has no ventilation and natural light filters in only from the front of the restaurant. Glancing off the curve of the ceiling, the interplay of light and shadow adds drama to the space. Enhancing illumination, small adjustable nozzle lights have been embedded in the ceiling. Barely there, their self-effacing aesthetic does not interfere with the majesty of the wave. “The cross beams from regular lighting would not have been appropriate,” says Chinmay.

Partitions are in an acoustic board to reduce noise – and in the same colour as the brick. The seating is simple and functional, its colours deliberately receding into the background. Wooden tables and chairs, designed with clean lines and a natural finish, seamlessly blend with the restaurant’s earthy palette.

“The open kitchen is the heart of the restaurant. Dominated by a sleek, dark countertop, it is designed to enhance transparency and engagement, allowing diners to witness the culinary process firsthand. The focal oven, reminiscent of classic pizzerias, reinforces the restaurant’s connection to traditional cooking methods. Above the kitchen, a backlit acrylic menu board adds a nostalgic charm, enhancing the overall atmosphere. The retro signage with its boxy black lettering evokes the feel of a bygone era,” says Tarika.

“This space demonstrates the power of design in shaping an environment that enhances both gastronomy and ambience,” says Chinmay.

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