Charlee, a new speakeasy in the bustling heart of Bandra West, Mumbai, emerges as the place to be seen in the Bollywood capital. The fact that the venue, comprising a restaurant and bar, is hidden beneath a fancy wine shop gives it a clandestine allure. Designed by Kaviar Collaborative, a company known for creating immersive experiences, Charlee beckons with its dark atmosphere, hinting at the mystery the night may hold.
Charlee in Bandra West has a cave-like, clandestine allure
When stepping into Charlee, you are greeted with dark tones and textures that give the impression of a hidden lair, or as those behind the venue put it, ‘a batcave meets gentleman’s club’. It provides a quirky contrast to its Bandra West location, which is a queen of the suburbs.
Natural materials such as stone and concrete give the space an industrial feel, their textures creating a rugged, cave-like charm that adds to the brooding atmosphere. In contrast, steel and brushed brass accents bring a touch of glamour and refinement.
Japanese-style screens suggest a coolness, while circular wall lamps offer a warm glow. The bolstered seating adds an art deco touch, enhancing a background that elegantly marries the polished and the rugged, challenging the conventional notion of what a bar should be.
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