The world’s only Southern Indian restaurant to hold a Michelin star has closed its doors to the public whilst designLSM completely redesign the interior. Design inspiration was realised when Steve La Bouchardiere – Managing Director, and Karen Mitton – Senior Designer, went on a whistle-stop tour of Southern India with Executive Chef Sriram Aylur. The first ports of call were Kerala and Cochin whose architecture combines Indian, English Colonial and Portuguese influences. Bangalore proved to be a high-tech emerging city and in Mangalore the team visited a heritage village where the owner had painstakingly acquired and renovated the houses. Mumbai proved to be a full assault on all the senses – it was here that the grand hotels provided a welcome sanctuary from the heat and noise. The final destination was Goa – an eclectic mix of sights and colours – where International visitors and past settlers provide a multi-cultural vibe.
The client’s brief was for the designers to create a unique, contemporary interior, which reflects the spirit and authenticity of Quilon. Dark grey tones are accentuated by vibrant splashes from amber, jade, green and blue fabrics throughout the 200sqm restaurant, 17sqm bar area and 79sqm private room. Layered and intricately-patterned Jaali screens finished in bronze, limestone-rendered walls, weathered timbers and atmospheric lighting provide greater depth of textures, as well as areas of interest. A bespoke, wenge candle wall – inspired by a Hindu temple in Kerala – consists of small portholes filled with tea-lights which throw out a warm, magical glow. Remarkable attention to detail has been executed with stained grey, curved wooden slats applied to the low ceiling, creating a soft wave-like effect. Striking elements include a hanging feature consisting of 1,100 individual, hand-printed ceramic discs, and an imported bespoke 8ft Indian fishing boat, which will be transformed into a glass top bar.
The Quilon Restaurant will re-open in March with the official launch party on 28th March 2012.
