Knock on wood!

interior

This week You! takes a look at the classy interiors of a restaurant in Lahore...

Going to a restaurant is not just about the food or the ambiance; in fact it is the perfect blend of both that results in a pleasant experience. Great ambiance, beautiful interiors and scrumptious food is what fine dining is all about. There are numerous restaurants, and each place has a unique interior design coupled with decor that differentiates it from the rest. So, if you are looking to make your weekend better, 'Gai'a' is the place to go to.

'Gai'a' is a Greek word which means goddess of Earth. The restaurant, situated in Defence, Lahore, is the brainchild of three partners; Asim Malik, Azfer Hassan and Nadeem Saigol. It's surely generating raving reviews for its delectable yet contrasting flavours; meticulous menu, incredible attention to detailing and a memorable experience.

The posh space is divided into three floors - each encompassing distinctive elements. The main entrance has ground seating with a focal space distinguished as the 'live sushi bar'. The hanging light bulbs and wooden installations mark the setting chic. The elegant interior is further enhanced with right placement of landscape paintings across the walls - reflecting an urban and cultural philosophy. The ambiance welcomes you to experience food, music and art in a unique way. According to Malik, "These paintings are on sale and anyone can purchase them."

This classic fine dining space has a contemporary touch that is very visible in the table-ware, with pretty flower vases and other detailings. It is a completely customized experience at every level along with Ted Baker porcelain; Alessi Tea serving sets for hi-tea and experimental art throughout. There has been an abundant use of wood for partitioning and low hung bulbs with wrought iron casing that illuminates the surroundings with its hazy glow lighting.

In order to know more about concept and inspiration behind the design of the restaurant, You! spoke to Omer Rauf, Creative Lead at Indie Design.

"For me the most dominant concept and inspiration is the brand itself. The Japanese tradition and sensibility was always something that has occupied my interest and Gai'a, as an ensemble, is a reflection of all those influences. The proportions, the divisions of the spaces, the various elements are all primal elements rooted in the far eastern tradition. The Japanese Fusion menu was one of the major drivers for me. So, we wanted to remain true to the materials. The un-soiled wooden table tops in their original form are a basic example of that," shares Rauf.

The facade of the building, which is now casually referred to as the 'Chopstick' facade is something that is directly borrowed from what the restaurant has to offer as a dining experience. "The incorporation of driftwood, the use of forged metal and the hints of copper are all a reflection of the palette that is brought together by the core concept of the restaurant. The restaurant is all about a carefully positioned seating and use of light to brighten up the environs. The brand's structural philosophy and the placement of the furniture is inspired by the materials, mix and overall experience," adds Rauf.

About the intricacies involved in the venture, Rauf states, "Hospitality design is something that I haven't delved much into till now and it was a unique experience. Eventually the interior design itself became largely about the materials, mix and the overall experience and hence it worked so well."

The basement itself is a new lounge area offering a unique and luxurious dining experience that tantalizes the senses. Surrounded with natural materials such as wood, the space pair's rustic decor with industrial detailing. From the chairs to the amount of lighting and to the actual consumer experience, all these elements contribute to the overall design.

"Since very few people give architects the liberty to flex their muscles, design-wise, it was a constant creative discourse with Azfar, Nadeem and Asim that helped establish the perfect place, in terms of the visual outlook of the restaurant," explains Rauf.

Coming to the best part - food! The high tea is quite amazing and their delectable desserts are just out of this world. A lot of research has gone into the making of the menu which the owners did in collaboration with a Dubai based party. "We take pride in the fact that our freshest import of sea food items, ingredients and vegetables arrive daily from Dubai, Japan, Italy, France and USA," concludes Malik.