1658: a tribute to the bygone European era

Named after the gorgeous time of dusk which is famously known as "godhuli lagno” in Bengali, is 1658 Bar+Kitchen, a newly launched 60-seater fine dining restaurant at Chowringhee, Kolkata. Spread over 1,500 sq ft area, this artistic space, really comes into its elements after dark as described by the interior architect, aesthete and Co-owner Sheena Rawla who conceptualised, designed and executed the project within two months.

The ornate baroque like interiors are lit up with the golden glow of tungsten bulbs, while a flickering projector shows Charlie Chaplin dancing on the grey walls. Reminiscent of Kolkata's vintage culture, the space recalls architecture which is unique and still stands the test of time.

While speaking to VM&RD on the theme of the eatery, Rawla mentions, "1658 Bar + Kitchen reflect the baroque past and all its drama, tension, exuberance and grandeur. It was'European' that was on top of my mind for the decor and as we partnered with famous British chef Shaun Kenworthy for the project. I knew that a great European cuisine needed a grand vintage setting.”

The interiors use grey and charcoal tones to evoke the charm of a bygone era. Rawla informs, "The monochrome colours match the concrete background and the yellow lighting exuding warmth in this elegant setting not only takes you back to a culture that was glamorous, glittering and grounded in history, but embraces everything chic and contemporary. Also all the shades are kept neutral because Shaun's food has a great colour palette.”
 
1658 is a meticulously designed space to bring alive a past that was gracious. Positioned in the heart of the city and the heritage zone of Kolkata, the decor completely compliments the Victorian architecture of the building that has got an amalgamation of neo-gothic, baroque and neo-classical style. Rawla further mentions, "The whole setting is very still, stark and quite, adding warmth that anyone would love while enjoying a hearty meal. All the furniture and the props are intricately picked up and customised to set the decor. For the seating arrangements, antique beds have been used to give a very cosy feel.”

The space uses innovative light fixtures made from recycled materials apart from the elegant chandeliers. Rawla adds, "Rusty charcoal grills which are seen on spiral staircases and old balconies in Bengali houses have been crafted into lamps with tungsten bulbs. The dress-circle seats facing the restaurant are lit-up with de-silvered jar lamps. We have also used cycle wheels by removing the spokes and installed them in one of the corners.”

She adds, "The space comes with a great ceiling height of 40 feet by 30 feet and huge expanse. I have demarcated it with charcoal grey in terms of colour and used the de-silvered glass which makes the whole space even more stunning.”

Bringing in the chef's perspective on the interiors, Shaun Kenworthy says, "The decor is all about the'bygone era' but at the same time it is'modern celebration'. The gastronomic map of Kolkata is fast changing and as I complete twenty-nine years in this industry today, I see a new crowd in every new dining space which is opening in the city. Here we are serving the modern European menu.”

On a concluding note Rawla shares, "As a designer I would love to open more such spaces and with the changing concepts of the F&B industry it is really more challenging to build such experiential projects.”