PROJECT: Ekaya, Ahmedabad; DESIGNED BY: Studio Lotus; PHOTOGRAPHS: Ishita Sitwala
Stepping into Ekaya’s new Ahmedabad flagship is like entering a shimmering tapestry of luxury Indian textiles. This 3,000 square foot sanctum, envisioned by Studio Lotus, in collaboration with Studio GreyMatter, pays homage to the exquisite craft of Banarasi weaves through a harmonious blend of heritage and contemporary design.
As a 120-year-old brand, Ekaya is devoted to celebrating the intricate artistry of Banarasi brocade and places weaving at the core of its identity. Originating in the ancient city of Varanasi, these lustrous silk saris feature fine zari metal work, opulent fabrics, and complex motifs woven using time-honored techniques passed down through generations of artisans. Ekaya honors this living legacy while giving the traditional textiles a modern voice. The design of the store seamlessly extends this fundamental principle.
The store’s layout revolves around a modular assembly of brass pipes, visually converging to craft an immersive, three-dimensional weave. “Given the constraints of inheriting a site with a staggered column grid, the concept lends itself well to the nature of the existing physical space.
This is where visitors are first introduced to Ekaya’s latest collections, collaborations, and ready-to-wear ranges. Functionally a display device which also has in-built lighting, the design allows for flexibility in how one meanders through the space—a crucial feature, given Ekaya’s expanding product base that varies widely in scale,” reveals Asha.
This story is from the February 2024 edition of Architecture + Design.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the February 2024 edition of Architecture + Design.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
TEJAL PATNI
Engaging in a free-wheeling chat about the not-so-bizarre world of his rather well-paved journey, Patni gives us a peek into his creative mind and the diverse influences that have shaped his artistic vision, right after the resounding success of his debut show, Vichitra
NOT A RAT RACE
Driven by a passion for innovation and a deep-seated curiosity for the potential of computational tools in architectural design, Sushant has embarked on a journey to integrate technology seamlessly into his practice
WHISPERS OF DESIGN
Imagined by Sara Shah and Nilay Shah of Magic Houz, this 2,500 sq ft holiday home is a treat for the design-hungry souls
A SYNERGY OF DESIGN ARTISTRY & ARCHITECTURAL SCALE
Centrally located in India's technology hub, this hotel's design concept reflects nature and geometry as a homage to the city of Bengaluru
IN GOD'S OWN COUNTRY
Meera Pyarelal's Temple Town is a design haven for the connoisseurs of refined luxury
REDEFINING OUTDOOR LIVING
Nestled in a lush coconut grove with bohemian interiors, the luxury furniture showroom of Bengaluru-based Outdoor Connections exudes a laid-back resort vibe
A REBELLION AGAINST URBAN DISCOMFORTS
Crafted by Snehal and Bhadri Suthar of Grid Architects, Vanessa Villa in Aluha, Gujarat, emerges as a private Biophilic retreat, akin to a surrealist dream-seamlessly melding light, air, and greenery to demonstrate architectural excellence and ecological harmony
WHERE ART MEETS FINE FOOD
Three new culinary destinations by Beyond Designs at the National Gallery of Modern Art in Delhi celebrate art, architecture and design styles from around the world
JASON WADHWANI
For Jason Wadhwani, bespoke luxury is synonymous with personalised experiences that transcend conventional boundaries.
PRIYANK MEHTA
Indulging in the essence of bespoke luxury, Priyank Mehta, the visionary force behind Attitudes, savours every creation like a connoisseur relishing a complex blend of rare spices, rich chocolates, and delicate floral notes.