Client’s Brief
The client envisioned a dining destination that would seamlessly blend the grandeur of Indian heritage with modern sophistication. Situated in the iconic Dubai Mall, Mausam needed to serve not only as a gastronomic experience but as a space that reflected both cultural authenticity and contemporary luxury. The design aimed to evoke the richness of India’s architectural legacy while embracing modern aesthetics to cater to a global audience. Additionally, the restaurant was to highlight traditional North Indian culinary artistry through a space that was as much about the design narrative as it was about the cuisine itself.
Concept
Mausam’s design concept draws on the juxtaposition of India’s historical architectural beauty and contemporary luxury. The space is inspired by the Red Fort, with its sweeping arches, intricate latticework, and rich textures, but reinterpreted through a modern design lens. The concept sought to create a space that feels timeless yet modern, drawing on cultural elements while integrating minimalist luxury. The design approach was to create an immersive experience, blending the opulence of traditional Indian craftsmanship with the clean lines and understated sophistication of contemporary interiors.
Various Design Elements
The restaurant’s design incorporates several distinctive elements that celebrate both Indian heritage and contemporary design. The architectural framework is defined by expansive arches, reminiscent of the Red Fort, which form a rhythmic flow throughout the space. These arches, paired with detailed latticework, add both depth and texture to the design, creating an atmosphere of grandeur while maintaining an intimate scale.
Central to the design is a sculptural rings installation, inspired by the domes and latticework of traditional Indian architecture. These undulating metal rings create a sense of movement and rhythm, guiding guests through the space while also defining intimate dining areas. The use of engineered metal with a soft terracotta hue mirrors the warm tones of Indian sandstone, further connecting the design to its cultural roots.
The open kitchen is a key feature of the restaurant, placing the culinary process at the heart of the dining experience. Traditional tandoors take center stage in the kitchen, where guests can see chefs prepare authentic dishes using age-old techniques. The transparency of the kitchen design fosters a direct connection between the preparation of the food and the guest experience, elevating the sensory journey.
Finally, the outdoor terrace offers guests panoramic views of the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain, creating an unforgettable backdrop. A grand illuminated archway, inspired by traditional Mughal gateways, frames these views, offering an elegant blend of nature, architecture, and cityscape.
About the Execution
The execution of Mausam involved intricate planning and collaboration between designers, engineers, and artisans. One of the most challenging aspects was balancing the ornate intricacies of traditional Indian design with modern materials and methods. The sculptural rings installation, for example, required precise engineering to ensure both its visual impact and structural integrity.
Additionally, the design had to integrate advanced technical systems, from lighting and acoustics to kitchen equipment, all while maintaining a seamless aesthetic. Each aspect of the design, from the open kitchen to the custom furniture pieces, was carefully executed to ensure it aligned with the overarching concept of blending heritage with modern luxury.
About the Ambience
The ambience of Mausam is defined by a deliberate contrast between warmth and grandeur. The interior features rich earthy tones, complemented by soft lighting that highlights the architectural features. Traditional lantern-style pendant lights provide a warm glow throughout the space, enhancing the textural elements of the walls and sculptures. The interplay of natural light and artificial lighting creates a dynamic environment, shifting throughout the day to transform the mood of the restaurant.
The outdoor terrace offers a different but equally captivating atmosphere. Daylight floods the space, creating a vibrant setting for guests, while in the evening, carefully curated ambient lighting transforms the terrace into an intimate, serene environment. The addition of lush greenery further softens the space, creating a peaceful refuge within the bustling city.
Challenges Overcome
One of the major challenges was integrating the historical and cultural elements of Indian design with modern architecture. The detailed craftsmanship inherent in traditional Indian architecture, such as the latticework and arches, required careful consideration in terms of material selection and spatial integration. Another challenge was executing the sculptural rings installation, which had to be precisely engineered to achieve both structural integrity and visual fluidity.
In addition, the open kitchen concept posed logistical challenges, particularly in ensuring that the traditional cooking methods, such as the tandoor ovens, were seamlessly incorporated into the design without disrupting the modern aesthetic. The restaurant had to balance the performance of a high-end dining space with the authenticity of its culinary techniques.
Unique / Key Features
Mausam’s most unique feature is the sculptural rings installation, which serves as both a functional space divider and a visual centerpiece. The rings, crafted from precision-engineered metal, create a rhythmic flow throughout the space, enhancing both the aesthetic and spatial experience.
The expansive arches, inspired by the Mughal era, frame the space with grandeur while allowing for intimate seating arrangements. The open kitchen concept, where diners can observe the preparation of traditional Indian dishes, emphasizes the connection between culinary craftsmanship and design. Additionally, the outdoor terrace offers breathtaking views of the Dubai skyline, with the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain forming an iconic backdrop.
Technical Elements
Lighting plays a significant role in the design of Mausam. Integrated LED systems, both recessed and ambient, have been used to highlight architectural curves and sculptural features. The indirect lighting within the rings installation enhances its dynamic form, creating a play of light and shadow that evolves throughout the day.
The kitchen design, particularly the traditional tandoors, integrates modern kitchen technology with age-old culinary practices, ensuring that the restaurant remains efficient while showcasing the authenticity of Indian cooking.
Material Selection
The material palette was carefully chosen to evoke both cultural heritage and modern luxury. Terracotta and red sandstone finishes were selected to evoke the warmth of traditional Indian architecture, while engineered marble and brass accents add a touch of sophistication. Cane, leather, and brass elements in the furniture and fixtures add texture and richness, grounding the design in traditional craftsmanship while elevating the space to meet contemporary standards.
Furniture Chosen
Custom-designed furniture combines traditional Indian craftsmanship with modern ergonomics. The plush banquettes and elegantly crafted cane and leather chairs have been selected to provide both comfort and style. The furniture is arranged strategically to create a sense of intimacy while maintaining an open, inviting atmosphere. Engineered stone-topped tables add a modern touch, and patterned porcelain tile flooring, reminiscent of traditional Indian motifs, anchors the design in its cultural context.
