Adda: A Unique Terrace Restaurant Designed by Devesh Pratyay

A Place to Gather and Hang Out

Adda is a one-of-a-kind terrace restaurant that features a small covered area along with two large terraces. The design of the space is minimalistic, blending seamlessly with the surrounding farming fields. The goal was to create a space that feels open yet enclosed, allowing guests to enjoy panoramic views in all directions.

The most striking feature of Adda is its roof, which is made of vernacular Indian materials. The roof is constructed using burnt clay tiles embedded with glass, creating a mesmerizing play of light and shadow throughout the day. The flooring is done in natural clay tiles, red oxide cement, and Indian white and black marbles, adding to the rustic charm of the space.

One of the key aspects of Adda is its commitment to sustainability. All the plants used in the restaurant are natural, with specific plants like Basil, Lemon grass, and thyme chosen to repel insects. A drip irrigation system is in place to minimize water wastage. Additionally, all the construction materials used in Adda have been sourced locally, with the steel and MS sections being repurposed from scrap and the wood used being scrap packing wood.

The design of Adda was not without its challenges. The space originally consisted of three distinct areas that needed to be merged into one cohesive unit. To achieve this, the entry was placed in the middle of the space, creating a sense of unity and allowing for smaller seating areas to be created within the larger space.

Upon entering Adda, guests are greeted by a dedicated foyer area on the ground floor. A staircase leads them to the second-floor terrace area, where they are presented with the choice of sitting in the front terrace, the central hall, or the rear terrace. This thoughtful layout ensures that every guest can find their preferred spot to relax and enjoy their time at Adda.

The Adda project began in January 2016 and was completed in December 2018. The design team, led by Devesh Pratyay, conducted extensive research on vernacular terraces to create a unique and inviting space for a bar. The result is a terrace restaurant that offers a refreshing break for highway travelers, providing them with delicious food, fresh beer, and a memorable dining experience.

Image Credits: Sameer Chawda

Awards and Accolades: Adda was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2018. This prestigious award recognizes designs that showcase creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving quality of life. Adda's unique design and incorporation of art, science, and technology make it a standout in the industry.