'indigo deli' by sameep padora and associates, mumbai, india
all images courtesy of sameep padora and associates


designed by mumbai-based firm sameep padora and associates, the 'indigo deli', a delicatessen and dine-in restaurant transforms
a mundane retail space within the palladium mall in mumbai, india. denying the rigid geometries of the mall context, an undulating
and interlocking structure swoops above the tables within the dining area. combining the qualities of a dome and surface, the hybrid form
employs the structural strengths of both applications. the wooden armature is formed with rough textured plywood, contrasting the
sleek copper lighting fixtures and built in details.

the design-build project began as a parametric exploration during the design process. manufacturing of the unique sections
began with CNC routing and systematic assemblage. once connected, the element was hung from the overhead RCC slab
from threaded steel rods which have been affixed into a double thickness vertical plywood panel. this connection allows for
accurate leveling through the entire length of the interior.



panoramic of interior



dining area



'ceiling detail



cross sectional development - transformation through retail

section / dining area



paradigms of existing infrastructure



proposed armature


project info:


project: indigo deli
location: lower parel, mumbai
architects: sameep padora & associates
design team: sameep padora, pankaj mhatre, shreya poddar, vinay mathias
area: 4500 sq. ft.