Concept Note
Being a trading community of the Chettinad, the Chettiars were exposed to Asian as well as European design sensibilities that they gathered during their travels and this blend of elements in their architecture and décor was the primary inspiration. The blend of cross cultural materials in architectural vocabulary used in the region, seamlessly acted as the guiding beacon for the design intent for the restoration for the small palace (working title).
Look and feel
After donning several avatars, through the past one and half century, the challenge was to convert the small palace (working title) as an atmospheric restaurant, that brings a unique experience for diners- the thrill to have your meal in a century old palace full of history with all the modern amenities of a fully functional, top-end eatery. The restored building is bought back to it’s original form as a part of adaptive reuse, plugging-in modern day comforts of air conditioning and services such as toilets and kitchen yet capturing the traditional essence of indoor and outdoor living.
The challenge in this project was to retain this original charm, in a neighborhood full of such old crumbling heritage buildings, yet not be so arrogant, that the small palace fails to blend in with its newness. The intention is not just to take a diner centuries back, but also to bring about an amalgamation of sensibilities and fitment, per the appropriate usage of space and not sticking to a particular genre of look and feel. This is reflective in the eatery’s theme as well—that is to serve guests with an extensive choice of traditional, fusion and European cuisine.
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