Nestled amidst the scenic landscape of Gulmarg, Kashmir, the Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa stands as a beacon of intimate luxury and refined design. Drawing inspiration from the quintessential charm of Italian fine dining, is Brava, a 1,500-sqft restaurant whose interiors project a rustic yet vibrant atmosphere that seamlessly complements the culinary experience it offers.
Design Philosophy and Approach
The guiding principle behind Brava’s design was to craft a space that captures the authenticity and warmth of Italian dining while integrating the scenic tranquility of its location in Gulmarg. The restaurant’s design offers an immersive dining experience, where every detail is meticulously crafted to enhance the ambiance, from the rich color palette to the lighting, and the layout that accommodates both intimate gatherings and larger groups.
Material Palette and Aesthetic Elements
The aesthetic of Brava is defined by a dark-toned rustic palette, a hallmark of Italian restaurant design, which immediately evokes a sense of cozy, old-world charm. The earthy tones of rich browns, deep reds, and muted golds are complemented by natural textures like exposed brick, distressed wooden finishes, and stone accents. This material palette not only highlights the connection to traditional Italian interiors but also respects the natural surroundings of Gulmarg, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor harmony.Central to the restaurant’s design is the custom-crafted wooden furniture, featuring classic Italian curves and details that add an air of timeless elegance. These pieces, designed in-house by Anil Badan, reflect a deep understanding of craftsmanship, offering comfort while maintaining a high level of sophistication. Each piece is designed to create a sense of familiarity, reminiscent of Italian trattorias, while offering the luxury expected in a fine dining establishment.
Lighting Design
Lighting plays a pivotal role in setting the mood at Brava. Ar. Anil Badan and Ar. Vikram Singh collaborated to design and sample custom ambient lighting fixtures that evoke the warmth of candlelight. These fixtures are strategically placed at varying heights throughout the dining area, casting a soft, golden glow that accentuates the rustic interiors and highlights the subtle textures of the materials. The lighting is tailored to create an intimate dining experience, ensuring each corner of the restaurant feels inviting and cozy. The dimmed, layered lighting enhances the warmth of the space, creating a leisurely atmosphere where guests can linger over a meal, enjoying the soft play of shadows and light.Spatial Layout and Functionality
The layout of Brava is designed to maximize comfort and enhance the dining experience for every guest. The space is divided into smaller, intimate sections that allow for private dining while maintaining an open flow throughout the restaurant. A central feature of the layout is the open kitchen concept, allowing guests to catch glimpses of the culinary magic happening behind the scenes, creating an engaging and interactive experience. The seating arrangement is thoughtfully planned to cater to varying group sizes, ensuring a balanced blend of privacy and openness.
The bar area, a key feature in Italian dining culture, is designed to be a focal point of the restaurant. Clad in natural stone with a polished wooden countertop, it serves as a social hub where guests can enjoy a glass of wine or aperitif before their meal. The bar’s design echoes the rustic elegance of the overall space, with a touch of modern sophistication.
Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa is more than just a dining space; it is an experience that marries the cultural richness of Italian cuisine with the serene beauty of its Kashmir setting. Ar. Anil Badan and Ar. Vikram Singh has created a space that resonates with warmth, elegance, and authenticity, making every meal at Brava a celebration of taste and design. Through its thoughtfully curated interiors, intimate lighting, and refined material palette, Brava stands as a testament to the power of design to elevate the dining experience, offering a slice of Italy amidst the breathtaking landscape of Gulmarg.
In designing the resort, we have focused on creating an atmosphere where the interior design elements subtly speak of the Italian theme, without overwhelming the natural beauty surrounding the restaurant.
Anil Badan, Founder & Principal Architect
Studio B Architects
Fact File
Project Name: Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa.Location: Gulmarg, Kashmir
Area: 1,500 sq. ft.
Design Team: Ar. Anil Badan, Ar. Vikram Singh
Completion: January 2023
