studio lotus weaves contemporary cuisine with traditional indian design in dubai restaurant

for the design of masti in dubai, studio lotus was challenged with the creation of a distinctly indian identity for the international restaurant placed at the heart of la mer, the emirati megalopolis’ newest recreational hub. the client aspired to weave brand identity, the food, and the ambience together to create an integrated and memorable experience.

masti offers indian cuisine with a global twist; and studio lotus needed to mirror this fusion – interpreting the quintessential indian experience for a global audience, while ensuring that the rendition did not appear inauthentic or superficial. a series of zones offer distinct experiences as one moves through them. through a bold, contemporary expression, masti crafts a narrative that is representative of india for the restaurant’s global visitors, with all its distinct quirks.

a larger gesture to modernize traditional indian crafts – as opposed to a replication of indian motifs via modern means – has been embedded in the design intent. the planning strategy breaks down the restaurant’s areas into a series of spaces across two floors, each of which offers a unique experience in terms of degree of privacy and dining style.

the ground floor is primarily meant for day-time usage featuring a bright palette and low lounge furniture. a juice bar in white marble mosaic, brass and wood emerges as the centerpiece for the zone, a refines take on the typical juice kiosks seen in Indian markets.

the upper decks offer stunning views of the arabian sea and the dubai skyline, and were designed as evening spaces. on the first floor, a combination of high cocktail tables and plush chairs balances the loosely structured layout of the indoor dining spaces with the bar counter acting as a spatial anchor. the seating configurations vary from intimate clusters of two and four to banquettes.

the terrace has a baithak – inspired layout for larger gatherings, with traditional Indian low – rise seating with bolsters. capturing stunning views of the arabian gulf and the city skyline, the terrace seating features contemporary takes on indian crafts, most notably tarkashi (traditional indian wire inlay work) and stone inlay used to create ludo board layouts on table-tops.

the design and decor is characterized by a vibrant color palette and whimsical design elements that display the best of Indian craftsmanship. brass lattice screens that delineate private dining spaces, a kolam – inspired floor inlay (a ritualistic form of hand drawing that uses rice flour), and custom-made glass and brass lighting fixtures.

project info:

client: masti lounge restaurant llc 

area: 8,000 sqft 

status: completed in 2018

photographer: juliet dunne & edmund sumner 

awards: special prize (interiors) at the prix versailles 2018, shortlisted at the restaurant & bar design award 2018 (middle east & africa category)

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