Walk into this tastefully designed organic cafe in Chennai

The Storey Collective take visitors on a playful journey at SOWL, enticing them to connect the dots in a soulful and sustainable flavoursome haven.

Curated by: Deepa Nair
Photographs: Sathish; courtesy The Storey Collective

The design intent

SOWL, designed by The Storey Collective, is a brewroom and bakehouse in Chennai which embodies the ethos of its acronym — sustainable, organic, wholesome and local. Spread across 1,200 sq ft, the cafe’s design is akin to crafting a delicate croissant, and showcases the artistry of form and function in its every vein.

The spatial configuration

SOWL is split on two zones: an indoor air-conditioned space with the display counter, and minimal seating; while the outdoor area is styled as a cosy lounge.

The design and material details

True to its concept, the cafe is designed in layers and each layer has been meticulously crafted. For instance, the display counter and bench seating, fashioned from perforated terracotta bricks filled with concrete, create a captivating graphic effect. Interestingly, the construction process of each perforated brick hole filled with cement mirrors the artistry of filling pastries. The cafe’s dialectic approach to materiality juxtaposes the heaviness of the pattern bricks against the lightness of arched window glazing, minimal furniture and fine veneers.

Terracotta adorns the bakehouse ceiling, maintaining the intended lightness, while round paper lighting pendants add a touch of elegance. Horizontal textured walls echo the layers of a croissant, and the earthy colour palette seamlessly intertwines with the furnishings. Overall, the ceiling, the concrete-infused perforated bricks, and the paper pendant lights create a graphic allure.

Colours were chosen to complement the furnishings and the predominant white which forms the backdrop. “We have used an earthy colour palette throughout the entire space that intermingles with other objects — the rugs, vintage lampshades,  hanging lights, chairs and the indoor display shelves. It is a playful journey that invites one to join the dots,” shares Nikhita Reddy, principal architect, The Storey Collective.

The highlights

“The overall materiality and the warmth of the space add an ethereal touch, and the bakehouse stands as a testament to the delicate dance between design and gastronomic inspiration. We love how the space feels light and airy at an instant glance, with subtle hues and a raw yet chic material palette. The space throws off an instant comforting vibe and the materials sourced locally gives us a fulfilment of being able to use the native talent and resources to create a one of a kind ambience,” says Nikhita.

Fact file

Project: SOWL – Brewroom & Bakehouse
Client: Pricol Gourmet
Location: Rutand Gate, Nungambakkam, Chennai
Area: 1,200 sq ft
Principal architect: Nikhita Reddy
Design team: Rukaiya Madraswala and Ritika Baid Mutha