Afra Tafri: A Symphony of Design and Delight

Devesh Pratyay's Award-Winning Restaurant Design

Devesh Pratyay, along with his team members Devesh Bhatia, Pratyay Chakrabarti, Megha Bhambhani, and Prince Aryan, drew inspiration from the Hindi slang term "Afra Tafri," which translates to "mad mayhem." This concept was brought to life through a colorful, breezy, yet elegant design. The result is a unique everyday drinking place that offers a lounge experience in a casual setting.

The design of Afra Tafri is characterized by its balance of various elements. From the color on the flooring, upholstery of the furniture, blinds, graffiti, wall humor through picture frames, and light fixtures, each element serves to demarcate space and contribute to the overall aesthetic. Despite the multitude of elements, none overpower the others, creating a balanced and delightful experience for the guests.

The design process involved a careful consideration of the location and the desired experience. The restaurant is located in a prime, upmarket location in Kolkata, and thus, the design had to reflect a chic, upmarket feel while maintaining a casual and open atmosphere. This balance was achieved through the use of various design elements such as door handles made out of beer bottles, a DJ counter that is a blown replica of a 90's two in one, and a bar flanked with microphone lights and empty bottles.

The design also incorporates a variety of materials, including black and white stone flooring, red-oxide cement flooring, and wooden floors. The walls are finished in cement punning with a 50% white cement mix, and the ceiling is painted in dark grey color with wooden rafters in straight lengths and mild steel look-alike girders made out of wood. This combination of materials contributes to the earthy tone of the interiors.

The design of Afra Tafri has been recognized for its innovation and excellence. It was awarded the Silver A' Hospitality, Recreation, Travel and Tourism Design Award in 2017, a prestigious accolade given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation. This award is a testament to Devesh Pratyay's skill and creativity in designing a space that is both engaging and delightful.

In conclusion, Afra Tafri is a testament to the power of design in creating a unique and engaging space. Through a careful balance of various elements, Devesh Pratyay and his team have created a restaurant that is both casual and upscale, offering a unique experience for its guests. It is a shining example of how design can transform a space and create a memorable experience.