Patola

When Art becomes an ideal to reflect another Art, the result is phenomenal. Centuries old, Patola - the double ikkat weave, originates from Patan, a small town in northern Gujarat. Signified by intricate work and extreme delicacy in the hands of the weaver, it forms a valuable part of our rich heritage.

Gradually, the forms & interpretations of art have varied & evolved for generations. To showcase something as meticulous & regal as Patola in a major metro-city, the design needed to strike a balance between the 'time and place where the art was born' and the 'time and place where the art has to be showcased'.

The space is a tricky maze of reflections, REFLECTING into the PAST of the art and heritage, ideally. A minimal grid of mirrors & wooden arched hanging display appearing alternatively wraps the entire vertical surfaces of the space.

What is born out of the arrangement is a sight of delightful surprises! The wooden arches reflect infinitely in the adjacent mirrors creating an abstract that resembles the imaginaries of the stepwell 'Rani ki Vav', Patan.

The design deliberately creates an aura that reflects & respects the heritage of Patola Art in every way. The kaleidoscopic reflections created through every mirror echo the countless designs and motifs that the patola hold in itself as a skilled art. The experience of standing in the store, facing the wall, it surely transforms one into the dimension of art & heritage created through a contemporary style.

The entire palette of the store confirms to a neutral beige to warm browns which in turn form a perfect base to highlight the bright hues of the Patola in display. The place is illuminated with the concealed ceiling lights that multiply in the reflections on the sides & the floor.

The elements and furniture pieces are all designed & customized to go with the sublimity of the rest of the space. Glossy brass finished furniture moulded to perfection, makes each piece a work of art in itself.

Functionally, the space is divided in two areas, where the rear part displays their exclusive collection and is connected to the front through a wooden tunnel-like way.

The design is a subtle attempt to achieve a clean yet classy backdrop for the patola to grab all the spotlight in the space. Metaphorically, the design translates the richness of our cultural heritage with just the right use of materials & elements.