Entering Urrak on the banks of Nerul river in Saipem, Goa is an immersive experience. The restaurant design stands out from the state's numerous eateries because it is constructed to resemble a group of silt islands.
“When we first visited the quaint site on the banks of Nerul river, we noticed sporadic formations of silt collected along the edge of the property. We instantly imagined a fictional past for the restaurant where local debris collected over the years by the river have now taken multiple formations of irregularity serving the community in different ways,” explains Arko Saha, principal architect at Otherworlds, a multidisciplinary studio based out of Goa. The team decided to use locally available materials but in an innovative way to create a bold spatial language. The restaurant's fusion cuisine also demanded an amorphous setting that celebrated the river.
The interior of Urrak with its variety of textures and shapes is an engaging space to be in. The sprawling 4,200 square-foot space is envisaged as a series of irregular islands. One such island acts as a bar, another as a welcome desk, a live music area, and so on
Woven bamboo mats on the bar door, drawers and kitchen cast a playful spell. But most predominantly it thrives on the roof highlighting the fluid design inspired by the river. Locally sourced yellow pine wood injects bright pops of colour while creating a refreshing contrast to the china mosaic. The dark wood furniture creates warmth and a natural balance.
There are plenty of details at Urrak that pack an aesthetic punch. Furniture made of local acacia wood compliment the contemporary space by adding oodles of charm, while gigantic planters strewn around bring a sense of calm. Bespoke lights made of cotton ropes tied together act as lanterns in the night and inject character and personality. When lit they throw playful shadows on the roof and the floor animating the space around it. Throughout the interiors, the neutral colour scheme continues using natural light to its advantage.
It's these small details that make Urrak a dreamy escape in the sunshine state of Goa.
Comments