This week, You! takes a look at the exquisite interior of a recently opened restaurant in Islamabad...
interior
This week, You! takes a look at the exquisite interior of a recently opened restaurant in Islamabad...
There is something unique about the Mughal era that makes it so significant in the history of subcontinent. The grand architecture and the larger than life stature of the Mughal Empire have its own value even today when centuries have passed since then. This is why when I heard of ‘Mughlai Courtyard’, an authentic Mughlai cuisine restaurant, opening in Islamabad, I was not surprised!
‘Mughlai Courtyard’ is the brainchild of Khurram Khan, the mastermind behind the popular ‘Tuscany Courtyard’. While the restaurant has been making rounds in the capital because of its food, one cannot speak about it without mentioning its absolutely stunning architecture and decor for which acclaimed architect, Ali Umar Alvi, deserves all the credit.
The restaurant pays homage to the rich art and architecture that was developed across for centuries through talented artists and architects of the Mughal Era. As you enter the restaurant, a spacious courtyard welcomes you. Ali Umar tells You! that the courtyard was built, taking inspiration from the elements of Mughal Empire. He says that the courtyard represents a sense of togetherness with the introvert private space, which was the basic architectural element of that era due to climate and cultural norms. “We tried to reflect that feeling in our design and tried to give a glimpse of the olden times which gives you strong sense of nostalgia,” he adds.
When asked where he gained inspiration for the space, he explains that wandering the streets of old Lahore gave a lot of ideas and inspirations apart from the Mughal Monumental Structures. “The mesmerising grandeur of the old havelies of Lahore, reflect the efforts and greatness of the artist and architects and also the taste of clients which commissioned the work. There is no other example of stunning and beautiful brickwork except for Mughal Architecture. Another great inspiration is Masjid Wazir Khan. The Buon Fresco paintings on the walls combine Mughal Imperial elements with ‘local’ - a decorative style which blends and makes a unique decorative style,” says Ali.
The inner space of this traditional eatery is designed in such a way that it can take you back to the Mughal Era and completely forget this day and age. The beautiful niches, wall art, mosaics, lights and lanterns, stunning ceilings and the chandeliers that add a whole lot of charm make this place even more special. According to Ali, his most favourite element is the frescos, which were more interesting, involving and time taking design element of the courtyard. “Islamic geometric and rich decorative floral elements were used because they represent illusion of Islamic concept of paradise, and Mughal artists always tried to interoperate paradise in their illustrations and paintings,” he tells while speaking about the artwork and paintings. He also admitted that reproducing rich art by hand which was a strong part of the Mughal heritage was an interesting task.
While talking about the decor, one cannot skip the skilfully carved wooden doors and furniture, which gives a glimpse of the past. Ali mentioned that wood was extensively used in the Mughal era as well. “There was a traditional element called ‘Mashrabia’, a form of net made with wood used in our traditional designs for circulation of wind and privacy both at a time. Thus we tried to replicate that and create masterpieces in shapes of carved wooden doors, windows, partitions and niches that added value to the overall theme,” he elaborates.
Ali also tells that lighting plays an important role in interior design to create the overall ambiance. It can develop the mood of visitors in a way the designer wants. “We have tried to use lowlight chandelier and lights to create an ambiance which is warm, cosy and comfortable,” shares the ace architect.
And last but not least, the colours used in the decor are all warm - red coloured bricks, dark brown aged wood, blue and green Multani tiles and a blend of different materials that were used in Mughal architecture. Ali Umar says that this was done in an attempt to revive the essence of the past by using it in a modern, contemporary way. Yet, the indoors play with a burst of colourful decorative design elements to give surprise to those who enter and find a whole new world! The place is stunning and definitely somewhere to be if you want to enjoy good food and an exquisite interior.
