Sona Reddy Studio Transforms Terrai into a Sensory and Design-Driven Culinary Experience

In the heart of Hyderabad, where modern urban landscapes intertwine with the echoes of a rich cultural past, an extraordinary space has emerged that captures the essence of Telangana’s spirit. Terrai by Sona Reddy Studio is not merely a restaurant; it is an experience—an intricate tapestry of art, architecture, and gastronomy that pays homage to the region’s heritage while embracing contemporary aesthetics. It is a place where every detail tells a story, every texture evokes a memory, and every corner invites discovery. In a world increasingly driven by uniformity, Terrai stands apart as a celebration of individuality rooted in tradition. The vision behind Terrai was to create a dining space that transcends the conventional and becomes a cultural journey. From the outset, the clients envisioned a haven where Telangana’s vibrant heritage could seamlessly meld with innovative design sensibilities. “Our nuanced approach—where the narrative of a place is brought to life through materials, forms, and craftsmanship—results in a breathtaking 8,500-square-foot restaurant that feels both timeless and refreshingly new. It is a space that engages all the senses while offering diners a profound connection to the land,” said Principal Architect Sona Reddy.


Fact File
Project name – Terrai
Location – HITEC City, Hyderabad
Typology and Square Footage – Hospitality - 8500 sq ft
Photography Credit – Pankaj Anand

Terrai embodies the region’s essence through a thoughtful blend of traditional motifs and modern design. Every design choice—from the ikat-inspired patterns underfoot to the terracotta hues that warm the interiors—resonates with the cultural identity of the state. It is a space that transforms a meal into a multi-dimensional experience, where diners are not just consuming food but also partaking in a rich narrative. Located on the ground floor of a high-rise corporate building, Terrai redefines its urban context with an intentional design that creates a sanctuary amidst the bustle. The restaurant’s layout unfolds like a symphony, with distinct spaces offering unique experiences. The central dining area, visible upon entry, sets the stage with its bold and inviting presence. Two private dining rooms, elevated with luxurious details, provide an intimate retreat. Outdoor seating, framed by a dynamic metal grid that evolves as nature takes its course, offers a connection to the outdoors while maintaining a refined atmosphere. The thoughtful design extends to the glass façade, which creates a seamless dialogue between the interior and exterior, blurring boundaries and enhancing the sense of openness.


Every element of Terrai has been crafted with a tactile, sensory approach. The material palette is a celebration of authenticity, chosen to evoke warmth and connection. Black granite and Kota stone come together in intricate ikat-inspired flooring, creating a visual rhythm that pays homage to Telangana’s renowned textile heritage. Walls coated in terracotta texture paint exude an earthy elegance, while wooden accents add a timeless quality to the carpentry, windows, and doors. The interplay of materials—stained glass, metal, and Dokra-inspired details—enriches the space with layers of texture and meaning, inviting diners to engage with their surroundings on a deeper level. The design of Terrai is steeped in cultural references, each thoughtfully reimagined for a contemporary context. At the entrance, a striking blue metal door with ikat-inspired handles serves as a powerful prelude to what lies within. The lobby, adorned with a pink sandstone planter ledge, introduces a naturalistic element that sets the tone for the organic elegance of the interiors. The bold ikat flooring, framed by terracotta cladding, guides guests through the space with a sense of rhythm and purpose. Abstract stained-glass windows, casting colorful patterns of light, add a layer of artistry that resonates with Telangana’s creative spirit.


Lighting plays a transformative role in Terrai, elevating it from a beautifully designed space to a truly immersive environment. The Bathukamma-inspired lights—massive fixtures that echo the scale and vibrancy of the region’s iconic festival—are a testament to the studio’s commitment to storytelling through design. In the private dining rooms, stretched fabric lights and a gold ceiling create an atmosphere of understated opulence, while the outdoor metal grid enclosure, punctuated by focal plants visible through geometric openings, brings a touch of nature’s dynamism into the space. The collaborative effort behind Terrai is a testament to the power of craftsmanship and vision. Each detail—from the Narahari art framed in Dokra metal to the custom furniture and lighting designed by artisans and studios—reflects the synergy of multiple creative minds coming together. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that Terrai is not just a restaurant but a cultural landmark—a space where tradition and modernity coexist in perfect harmony. As diners sit beneath the maximalist ikat checkered ceiling or admire the intricate stained glass, they are reminded of the beauty of Telangana’s traditions reimagined for the present. Terrai is a sensory feast, a celebration of the land and its stories, and a space where every meal becomes an unforgettable journey. Here, art, architecture, and gastronomy converge, leaving an indelible impression on all who step through its doors. In Terrai, Sona Reddy Studio has created not just a restaurant but a living, breathing tribute to the soul of Telangana.