Of Pop Art & Pot Shots!

By Beverly Pereira

Photography: Courtesy the designer

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He Said, She Said is a shot bar that strays away from the typical through vibrant artwork and monochrome illustrations…

‘Fun, friends and alcohol’ seems to be the running theme at He Said She Said, a new shot bar in Mumbai’s suburbs. Just like a shot - meant to be gulped down in an instant and that offers a burst of flavours to the palate, this multi-level and variegated space is a powerhouse of energy achieved through its thoughtful design.

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Designer Vishal Gupta of Hookahpaani Studios has commissioned the young artist Bhuppi to work on the bar’s vivid imagery. In keeping with the name of the bar, the walls come alive with speech bubbles carrying the viewpoints of both the sexes, while interpretations of Mumbai’s cityscape constitutes a subtle yet larger-than-life backdrop.

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Springing from the metropolis and its varied signature elements, the décor is speckled with colourful cushions on benches and some old folding metal chairs amidst a simple yet very spacious rendition of a youthful space.

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From Earnest Hemingway to everyday couples, Bhuppi’s multi-hued characters appear to be in conversation with each other. Hand painted by Bhuppi on hardwood cut outs, the art appears to be popping out at the visitor, almost appearing three-dimensional. The speech bubble’s thematic sayings are created using hand-cut letterforms’ and extending this interactive theme are wall-hung blackboard speech bubbles that offer customers a space to express their thoughts.

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Almost every space is looked at with a distinct creative fervour: an indoor dance floor keeps the spirit of music alive through Bhuppi’s vibrant interpretation of the classical musician Beethoven behind the DJ console; the bar’s vivid wall art co-exists with monochrome sketches seen as one ascends to a quiet fine-dine experience on the level above; and as one climbs higher to the terrace, one is greeted by yet another distinctive ambience – an  earthier feel with concealed lights, a cane bar, potted plants and a small stage for evening sessions.

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Lighting plays on the moods and each area appears different at different times of day.

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The best part though is a small but significant design gesture – the staircase that leads to the basement office has been decorated with installations including a statue of a hen. Acting as an extension of the vibrancy that lies above, the thoughtful design prevents employees from being instantly transported to a dull workspace!