ROYAL VEGA

ITC Hotels is a 5-star chain of hotels in India. They have a “Royal Vega” restaurant in many of these hotels, serving regional cuisine. The brief was to design a space which would showcase regional art and architecture, recreating the local ambience. This restaurant is located near Udaipur in Rajasthan, a state with a centuries-old heritage of ruling royal families. IMAGERY: The elephant, horse and peacock were chosen as symbols recurring in palaces, and celebrations. “Chhatris” or umbrellas which are part of royal paraphernalia have been reinterpreted to incorporate lighting, suspended like pendants from the ceiling. Dining tables have rich table cloths and even the silverware was customized with regal motifs. LAYOUT The restaurant consists of a large dining area with eight tables to seat a total of 32 guests. The tables are for two, four, six and eight guests, accommodating a variety of group sizes. Two private alcoves seat ten and six respectively. LIGHTING To simulate a celebratory feel, the space is largely kept bright over 300 lumens. Chhatris, or umbrellas, as table lighting elements are suspended from the ceiling, concealed lights to accentuate the artwork on the walls. The space is washed with even light akin to natural daylight. SURFACE TREATMENTS The floors, walls, and ceilings are detailed and embellished in the manner of Indian royalty. The use of marble floors inlaid with flower motifs carries this theme, while the walls are clad with traditionally patterned engraved panels, finished in white to soften the detail. Ceilings with rich cornices accentuate the decorative arched alcoves showcasing art by local artisans depicting royal processions. The expanses of white in the backdrop and the details in the surface treatments bring a balance to the colors in these royal portrayals. FURNITURE STYLING Rajasthan is not only known for its rich cultural heritage but also its wood/stone/metal craftsmanship, using the vernacular styling of royal dining spaces and the special serving styling of the local cuisine, the dining furniture was designed with inspirations of same. The intricately detailed seating upholsterd in regal motif fabrics, dining tables are dressed in royal gold and white covers with royal motif corners. The traditional cuisine is served in silver ware, which is important part of the royal dining culture of Rajasthan.