Inside Mumbai’s newest restaurant set against a medley of backdrops

With its layered aesthetics, Neuma designed by Ashiesh Shah Atelier, is the definition of modern luxury, colour and vibrancy.

Curated by: Deepa Nair
Photographs: Ashish Sahi; courtesy Ashiesh Shah Atelier

Neuma, designed by Atelier Ashiesh Shah for Karan Johar is the talk of the town! Set in an old colonial bungalow Located and located amidst the chaos and cacophony of Mumbai’s Colaba Causeway, Neuma serves as an architecturally prominent landmark transporting one to a different time and space. Ashiesh presents the space in a new avatar with his minimal aesthetic infusing it with colour while retaining the essence of erstwhile Indigo restaurant. Drawing inspiration from the architecture of this bungalow and his travels, Ashiesh endeavours to keep the minimalism alive while giving it character through the introduction of custom handmade pieces commissioned from craft communities across different parts of India. Additionally, the space features art pieces and collectibles sourced from all the world, reminiscent of a collector’s home.

All the rooms at Neuma has a distinct character leaving the visitor in absolute awe and surprise. At the Garden Cafe (outdoor area) — with hues of white and detailed carvings and stone pebbles — the architectural language is recreated around the existing greenery, seamlessly merging with the aesthetic of the bungalow. Bathed in natural light, the oakwood Sun Porch with its skylight opens up to the trees and the infinite sky lending a certain warmth to the space. The courtyard features black and white old world cement tiles which are complemented by the detailed moulding panels on either side.

The Rose Bar, realised in hues of red, is characterised by a sculptural light fixture inspired by Anish Kapoor, much like a cigar lounge room clad in wood adding a dramatic flair. Verde, the private dining area is also referred to as the “corset room” features chairs and curtains with Channapatna bead tassels in tones of yellow. The detailed corset panels paired with the studio’s signature Guccha light serve as the highlight of the space. The staircase leading to the first floor, amply lit, is distinguished by its rope-detailed handrails inspired by Ashiesh’s sojourn in Sri Lanka. The outdoor bar upstairs wears hues of black coupled with foliage and water features and is contrasted by its adjacent indoor dining area with a nautical vibe through blue and white hues and stunning chandeliers alongside panelled walls.