Refinery 091: Redefining Pub Design

Devesh Pratyay's Award-Winning Design Transforms Industrial Elements into Refined Decor

The name Refinery 091 is derived from India's international dialing code (91), reflecting the pub's proud Indian identity. The design concept is a tribute to the city's trading history, with the pub's decor designed to look and feel like a refinery. The use of industrial materials such as wood and metal creates a unique ambiance that is both warm and cool, raw and refined.

One of the most striking features of Refinery 091 is its ceiling, inspired by an oil refinery. Industrial pipes form the main design element, extending from the ceiling and integrating into the bar area. The bar itself is designed to feel as if the process of refining starts with its bubblers, with the energy thus formed percolating through the drinks, food, and music, flowing around the place in pure copper pipes. The use of copper as the primary color ties in with the overall theme, accentuating the purity and rawness of the decor.

Other highlights of the pub include a chimney laid out on the floor to signify the energy oozing out of the floor and a DJ counter styled as a brewery tank. The entrance to the restaurant is through an 8-meter high door that opens to a full view of an 8-meter high bar back display that is fully stocked. The layout is methodical and controlled, enabling smooth footfall.

The design of Refinery 091 was realized through a wide variety of materials. Stainless steel pipes finished with PVD coating of copper in glossy, matte, and black finishes were used to create the look of a refinery. The project, which started in April 2018 and was completed in January 2019, involved studying piping layouts in petroleum refineries to understand how the pipes are laid out. The challenge was to create a simple but complex looking layout and to carry out the work without damaging the floor below.

Refinery 091 is more than just a pub. It's a celebration of design, a testament to the power of creativity and innovation. It's a space that pushes the boundaries of what a pub can be, offering a unique experience that engages all the senses. With its award-winning design, Refinery 091 is set to become a landmark in Kolkata, a symbol of the city's vibrant and dynamic spirit.