Enroot: A Rural-Inspired Restaurant Design

Celebrating the Spirit of the Rural Landscape

The exterior walls of Enroot are hand plastered with integrally earthy-colored cement, reflecting the rawness and unevenness of mud-plastered walls in rural villages. Horizontal scrapwood louvers run around the building, lending it a Zen-like character and creating a harmonious connection with the natural surroundings.

Inside, the restaurant features handcrafted elements developed in collaboration with local potters and rope weavers. These elements add a touch of authenticity and showcase the rich artistic traditions of the region. A stunning Warli style painting summarises the entire theme, further immersing guests in the rural ambiance.

The realization of Enroot involved a combination of traditional and innovative techniques. The external walls were finished with colored cement plaster, achieved by adding a specific ratio of red and yellow iron oxides to the cement mix. The application of the plaster was intentionally done by hand, paying homage to the traditional mud plastering techniques used in rural areas.

The facade louvers were made from scrap wood and suspended with a system of ropes and wire, showcasing the resourcefulness and creativity of the design team. Local pottery craft was utilized to create planters fashioned like earthen pots, which were then fixed in an MS frame in an opening in the wall. The internal ceiling was left exposed, and elements and lighting fixtures were suspended from an MS frame. Ropes, a product of the local cottage industry, were used extensively in various elements, adding a rustic yet elegant touch to the overall design.

Enroot spans over 1,500 square feet of built-up area and is located in Village Azadpur Mafi near Gajraula, Uttar Pradesh, India. The project, which started in January 2015, was completed in February 2016. Throughout the design process, the team faced challenges in creating an authentic local experience using local resources, labor, and art. The remote location of the site and the untrained labor required extensive supervision, and the designs of various elements were developed through a dialogue between the architect and the craftspeople.

Enroot's unique design and commitment to celebrating local arts and crafts have earned it recognition in the design community. In 2017, it was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Hospitality, Recreation, Travel, and Tourism Design category. This prestigious award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements, contributing to a better world.

Enroot is a testament to the power of design to connect people with their surroundings and celebrate the beauty of local traditions. With its rural-inspired aesthetic and commitment to sustainability, it offers a truly unique dining experience that transports guests to the heart of the countryside.