Re-design of an Indian Icon

Built originally in 1903, Taj Mahal Palace and Tower Hotel in Mumbai is home to the well known restaurant of Wasabi by Morimoto and it’s adjoining Harbour Bar. This fantastic recent re-design was done by Rockwell Group Europe, and is very successful in blending tradition with contemporary design, as well as Japanese (for the restaurant’s cuisine) and Indian (for it’s historic location) aesthetics. The Harbour Bar was the first establishment in all of India to acquire an official liquor license. The bar is carved from one giant solid piece of marble!

These red lacquer stairs wind up from the bar level up to Wasabi by Morimoto Restaurant on the upper level. I love the juxtaposition of the bright red, Japanese lacquer work against the dull black metal and glass elevator it wraps. A ceremonial room in the restaurant is dedicated for individuals to watch their sushi being made from one of India’s top chefs. Japanese forms with Indian architecture and art co-mingle to create a sophisticated setting in the restaurant.