Vintage charm!

By Marina Correa

Photography: Niveditaa Gupta; courtesy M:OFA

Read Time: 2 mins

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New Delhi’s latest watering-hole, The Chatter House, stands out amidst swanky designer boutiques and high-end cafes at Khan Market; its interiors reminiscent of the warmth of traditional Irish pubs and English underground stations…

Designed by architecture firm, M:OFA Studios, the 1,700 sq. ft. restaurant and bar is spread across two levels with each displaying a similar material vocabulary, but exuding a distinctive look-feel due to contrasting treatment.

 

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An oversized matt-finished steel door announces entry into a spacious bar with a twin-vaulted ceiling, where two brick-lined semi-circular barrel vaults rest heavily on riveted steel girders in a balanced symmetry immediately harking back to vintage Irish charm.  They culminate into oversized circular glass windows drawing in a flood of natural light that washes and texturises the multiple rustic brick surfaces ensconcing one in earthiness and warmth; bringing back the nostalgia of bygone English underground stations.  

 

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Adding to the colour schematic is the greenery beyond along with grey and white patterned terrazzo tiled flooring. An art deco-inspired bar counter is complemented with tan upholstered bar stools, extensive oak wood panelling, fixed booth seating, walls adorned with Irish rhyme notes and pictures of old English rock bands etc., making this space a connoisseur’s delight.

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With one of the tenets of good interiors being correct lighting, M:OFA Studios gets it right by using bespoke light fixtures, reminiscent of wrought iron torches used by the railway tunnel mechanics in old England. 

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A narrow flight of steps leads to the al-fresco dining section, where two huge glazed windows, skewed at the top, continue to hover overhead as skylights, making this a bright and cheery social space to spend time with family and friends.

 

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The usage of glass, steel members and square-shaped windows gives this level a contemporary appeal despite the same ochre brick walls, patterned terrazzo tiled flooring and art collectibles; making this a good place to chatter, after all.