Fact File:
Client: Dadu’s
Design Firm: Ravish Mehra Deepak Kalra Architects
Principal Architect: Dhruva Kalra
Team: Sanjay Sah, Pranay Sharma
Photographer: Ricken Desai
Display and referigeration: Climaire Inc
Words: Arunima Agarwal
Deeply rooted within Indian traditions, the aroma of Dadu’s is now woven into the very fabric of the city of Nizams. Located in one of the most commercial areas of Hyderabad, this quaint store is an ode to the nostalgia of customary family gatherings and festivities.
Being a trailblazer, Dadu’s is designed as a delicate amalgamation of the local heritage and a global influx by reinterpreting heritage and thus creating new identities. It celebrates the quirks of a luxurious international retail experience brought together in an Indian context to perfectly reflect the changing taste and face of a younger India.
Designed to evoke an old-world charm and comfort, the store is a graceful experiential indulgence. A wide array of materials, colors and textures have been nimbly translated into a humble yet luxurious ambiance. A neutral color palette and use of naturally sourced materials complement the products on display while also adding warmth and a homely comfort to the space.
Being among the most prestigious brands from Hyderabad, the design brief required a contemporary interpretation of the opulence of the city’s rich architectural heritage. This was adeptly done by adapting various elements from its forts and palaces and transposing it into cutting edge planning, technology and construction methodology.
The jaali patterns, traditionally used as screens, have been reinterpreted into clean geometric patterns for screens, wall cladding and ceiling paneling to create a strong visual harmony and bind all the spatial elements together. This is complemented with chic patterned tiles inspired by the rich royal motifs, that add color to an otherwise neutral palette. The arched glass doors and windows, the wooden ceiling rafters with brackets and the elaborate chandeliers are reminiscent of the city’s splendid architectural heritage.
The custom-made minimal display counter by Climaire further emphasizes on the simple yet timeless Indian splendor. The fine grooves on the surface of the stone clad display gives a fine play of light and shadow, thus adding depth and charm to its patterns and texture. The premium gifting section further stands out with its highlight feature wall in a rich blue along with custom made titanium coated steel fixtures. It exudes the warmth and extravagance of the royalty in a highly urbane and Avant Garde setup. Such intricate details along with suave classical furniture and a perfectly controlled lighting spectrum create a lavish and elegantly seamless spatial experience.
Aimed at re-imagining Indian heritage into a cozy yet international retail experience, Dadu’s is an exercise in contemporary luxury that perfectly balances the old with the new to radiate classy and chic relaxed vibes for everyone to enjoy and soak into.