Loya: A Sensory Feast Celebrating the Rich Tapestry of India’s Past
Located within the opulent precincts of the Taj Hotel in New Delhi, Loya is a restaurant reviving North India’s iconic cooking traditions while embracing the rich tapestry of heritage. Steeped in traditions and narratives of the historic spice route forged by the Portuguese explorers, it is designed to immerse visitors in the grandiosity of the 15th and 16th centuries. Loya pays homage to a time when India served as the pivotal point in a vast network of sea routes connecting merchants from Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. Reflecting the grandeur of this historical era, the restaurant encapsulates the essence of cross-cultural exchange across continents. The name ‘Loya’ is derived from the Pashtun term, which signifies 'a gathering for a feast.’ It transports diners to a visual odyssey that mirrors the culture and architecture of a bygone era, imprinting a lasting impression on their minds.
Loya is planned across an expansive floor plate within the hotel, spanning horizontally and maintaining a smooth, uninterrupted flow throughout its layout. The entrance to the restaurant is marked by a magnificent Persian arched door embellished with elaborate geometric motifs that emanate an aura of splendour. As guests step into the restaurant, they are enveloped in an immersive dialogue of global cultural influences that echo the design philosophy driven by functionality and aesthetics. The layout of the restaurant's interior is thoughtfully divided into a welcoming waiting area that doubles as a lounge, a refined bar, and a dining space. The open-plan arrangement sets a visual linkage between the spaces by integrating partitions in the form of intricate jalis and punctures. A series of four-centred arches accentuate the spatial transition, functioning as architectural features that frame each area uniquely.
The inclusion of a tranquil waterfall feature and a textured stone backdrop with openings in the bar area adds an extra layer of luxury. Completing the ambience, the ceiling of the bar area is adorned with rhythmic wooden battens that tie together the entire space. The gurgling waterfall evokes auditory sensations, the rugged landscape captivates the tactile senses, Arabic design elements influence sight, and the sweet aroma tantalises the olfactory senses. Together, they culminate into a multi-sensory epicurean experience. Loya's resplendent lounge areas feature curated seating arrangements, including a central area catering to various group sizes. Additionally, tasteful drapery and awnings delineate dedicated corners for intimate dining experiences. Spatial divisions are artfully implemented to provide guests with a sense of intimacy and exclusivity while maintaining an open and inviting atmosphere. Throughout the space, attention is paid to circulation and spatial relationships, achieved through carefully considering factors such as footfall, furniture arrangement, and spatial proportions.
Covered in strong materiality and hues, Loya retains a profound connection to its historic roots while incorporating contemporary elements. Stone-clad walls, wooden accents, skirting and refined detailing imbue the space with a sense of heritage and grandeur, complemented by clean-lined modernist touches. Central to the spatial narrative is the prominent use of natural stone, evoking the rugged beauty of the surrounding landscapes. A curated palette of vibrant colours adds a playful contrast, enhancing the visual impact. Low-height furniture adorned with vivid upholstery and tufted Persian rugs ties the space together. Drawing inspiration from the exotic imports that once traversed the historic spice routes, such as copper, brass, saffron, red chillies, green cardamom, and more, the design language of Loya is enriched with handcrafted finishes, including oversized earthenware pots and vases. Additionally, the furniture is embellished with copper, giving the impression of being foldable, spanning between the base.
The design vocabulary of Loya is evocative of the bustling bazaars of yesteryears, with drapes, durries, artwork, and awnings adding depth and cultural resonance. Colourful durries suspended from the ceiling create a rhythmic progression, serving as modern-day false ceilings to break the monotony. Modern downlights are juxtaposed with copper accent lamps, reinforcing a mediaeval yet dynamic design language that infuses Loya with a unique character. Extravagant details such as murals of turbaned Mughal merchants in robes and gowns in courts and marketplaces celebrate the heritage, converting this experience into a heritage walkthrough.
Loya takes visitors on a journey through undiscovered culinary traditions, proudly showcasing heirloom ingredients. It combines the essence of time, space, and people in a spatial discourse. This dynamic interplay of elements crafts an experience that extends beyond visual appeal. Seeking to revive age-old traditions by incorporating architectural and cooking techniques, Loya offers more than just a dining experience; it provides an experiential exploration of history, craftsmanship, and design excellence.
