We can analyze the photographs we see of incredible restaurant projects and explore the spaces in person, but the very best way to understand the makings of breathtakingly beautiful interiors has to be by delving into the creative genius behind the space.
If you’re not familiar with the name Nikita Harisinghani, you won’t forget it after setting sights on her contemporary yet timeless design accomplishments – some of them being culinary havens in Mumbai like Café Eve in Powai.
Having perfected the art of integrating the modern and the creative to create settings with hints of boho and maximum attention to details, we caught up with the restaurateur on her style inspiration, go-to color palettes, and the method behind her design process.
Q & A
- How do you approach your design projects? Talk us through the process…
The first step is always to create a color palette that would set the tone for the entire space. We chose warm, earthy tones for Eve. Next, we turned to the textures and materials of the restaurant. For the flooring, we chose wood, the walls were given a raw unfinished look, making the perfect backdrop for the vintage artwork and decor pieces that were to be displayed throughout the space.
For the seating, we opted for a combination of vintage wooden chairs and plush, comfortable sofas to create an inviting and eclectic atmosphere. Lastly, for the lighting, we chose a combination of large chandeliers, cane lamps and candles to create a warm, romantic glow. The lighting makes the space appear cozy and intimate, perfect for a romantic dinner or a relaxing night out with friends.
- What was the design inspiration behind Café Eve?
Designing a restaurant is not just about creating a space where people come to eat. It's about creating an experience that transports your guests to a different world, where they can feel relaxed, inspired, and in touch with their inner selves. And as for Eve, the design inspiration was a combination of classic vintage and modern elements that blend together seamlessly to create an atmosphere of warmth and authenticity.
- Where did you source the furniture and accessories from?
Most of the furniture was manufactured from local vendors in and out of Mumbai.
For accessories, KNS architects and I extensively searched through the by lanes of Mumbai, Jaipur, Jodhpur and Delhi to curate some unique finds.
- Which is your favorite corner in Eve, and why?
My favorite space would be the library wall. As a guest walks into the space, they’re greeted by a 30ft high double height wall right at the entrance. As one climbs up the spiral staircase, one can admire the 4000 books and the vintage antiques across the shelves of the library wall. It makes for the perfect first impressions.
- What’s next for Nikita Harisinghani…
2023 is a very exciting year for us at Chrome Hospitality. We will look at announcing five new brands and will also add eight new outlets of its marquee brands across India. With a great start, we are all set to launch two new brands - Shy! In Mumbai, and Vaana in Goa in the coming months. Additionally, we will be launching two new outlets of our existing brand Eve in Mumbai along with two new concept bars in Bandra.