RIRA architects believe that spatial design is not just about the visual experience. Therefore, the core concept of Unaan restaurant set on the rooftop of Firoza Inn, Pragati Avenue, Kuril, deals with the relationship between humans and nature, culture, and daily life. Its interior represents a leisurely and comfortable living atmosphere for the urbanites.
The design took almost three months to complete and got launched at the end of 2019; before the Covid-19 pandemic just began. The outbreak had been a major constraint for conducting initially but the restaurant soon gained its pace when the outbreak was gradually taking off. One of the other constraints had been the rooftop space which was an abandoned space; therefore, the entire design of the restaurant had to be done from scratch. The space is segregated into three segments: indoor, semi-outdoor, and outdoor.
After guests enter through the main entrance, they are welcomed in the indoor area. The indoor section instantly gets guests rid of the busy urban life; inviting them into a tranquil and comfortable atmosphere. The space is surrounded by wide glass panels, introducing natural lights into the interior to a maximum extent. Besides, the overall transparency of the space visually brings a sense of spatial fluidity. The indoor area is transformed into a simple, clean, and uncluttered space. Cabinets and other furniture pieces are all in-house made that aim for a simple and modern aesthetic. Seat setup is minimum so that the space is not congested and guests can sit and talk at ease. “We believe that a restaurant provides more than just food, significantly, it provides opportunities for people to gather and communicate. As seen, guests visit Unaan and stay here for a while; relax and feel comfortable communicating after their busy daily life; this makes the design successful”, expresses Tauhidul Rifat, partner architect of RIRA architects.
From the indoor section, guests can move to the semi-outdoor section and may choose to have a seat there. Using a combination of raw materials: wood, stones, ceramic, and metal, the semi-outdoor space bring a rustic, friendly, and natural presence, pleasing the guest with the greenery and landscape surrounding it. Each section has its charm and beauty and a completely different ambiance. For instance, the vibrant teal wall accompanied by the circular-framed hand-drawn paintings brings a contrast to the muted place; further, the black and white diagonal tile floor adds the right amount of drama to the place.
Climbing through a wooden staircase leads to the wide-open outdoor area. This place is curated with various native plants and seasonal flowers that bloom with changing seasons such as Oporajita (Blue Pea Vine) and Rokto Joba (Red Hibiscus) seen during the hot humid days. “With changing seasons, the place also changes in color, texture, and feel. Guests enjoy new experiences the space offer that is warm and hearty. Also, the amount of green set in the design and the utilization of natural air can be an effective means of improving the quality of life,” shares architect Rahma Hassan of RIRA architects.
It is indeed a place that speaks about simplicity, transparency, and of bringing back the essence of things and life.
It is a place in conjunction with great food, a stimulating atmosphere, and a strong connection with nature.
Guests enjoy the wide city-view, especially, the sunset while sipping over hot coffees or tasting seafood chowmein or signature set meals.
