Charlee, a new speakeasy in the bustling heart of Bandra West, Mumbai, emerges as the place to be seen in the Bollywood capital. The fact that the venue, comprising a restaurant and bar, is hidden beneath a fancy wine shop gives it a clandestine allure. Designed by Kaviar Collaborative, a company known for creating immersive experiences, Charlee beckons with its dark atmosphere, hinting at the mystery the night may hold.
Charlee in Bandra West has a cave-like, clandestine allure
When stepping into Charlee, you are greeted with dark tones and textures that give the impression of a hidden lair, or as those behind the venue put it, ‘a batcave meets gentleman’s club’. It provides a quirky contrast to its Bandra West location, which is a queen of the suburbs.
Natural materials such as stone and concrete give the space an industrial feel, their textures creating a rugged, cave-like charm that adds to the brooding atmosphere. In contrast, steel and brushed brass accents bring a touch of glamour and refinement.
Japanese-style screens suggest a coolness, while circular wall lamps offer a warm glow. The bolstered seating adds an art deco touch, enhancing a background that elegantly marries the polished and the rugged, challenging the conventional notion of what a bar should be.
-
Fluid workspaces: is the era of prescriptive office design over?We discuss evolving workspaces and track the shape-shifting interiors of the 21st century. If options are what we’re after in office design, it looks like we’ve got them
-
This collection of slow furniture is a powerful ode to timeA serene exhibition of David Dolcini's 'Time-made' collection has fast-tracked its place into our hearts and homes
-
Is the Pragma P1 the most sustainable watch yet?Geneva-based brand Pragma combines industrial design with real sustainable credentials
-
Must-visit cinemas with award-worthy designThere’s more magic to the movies at these design-led cinemas, from Busan Cinema Centre’s ‘flying’ roof to The Gem Cinema Jaipur’s art deco allure
-
All aboard the world’s most luxurious train journeysStay on track with our pick of the most luxurious train journeys around the world, whether in 1920s-style opulence or contemporary chic
-
Members’ club Polo Palladio is Jaipur’s hottest stamping groundPolo Palladio in Jaipur is the reimagined members-only playground of Rajasthan Polo Club, with vibrant interiors by Marie-Anne Oudejans
-
Telugu Medium Kitchen, in Southern India, is a labour of loveDesigned by Sona Reddy Studio, Telugu Medium Kitchen dives deep into the Andhra heritage for food cooked with traditional richness
-
Roseate Ganges — Rishikesh, India -
Soho House — Mumbai, India -
Indian Accent — London, UK -
Fort of call: the Rajasthan hotels worth journeying toRajasthan is the jewel in India’s crown, a parched expansive land, home to vibrantly colourful festivals, thrilling wildlife experiences, fairytale palaces and epic forts – many of which have been transformed into modern-day luxury hotels. We take you on a tour of the best Rajasthan hotels to lay your head.
