Makau Kitchen and Bar conceived by 23DDS in urban Hyderabad is a vision amidst constraints

Imagine stepping off a busy Hyderabad street and finding yourself transported to a lush, airy haven. This is the experience Makau offers its patrons. Nestled between 60-foot high office buildings and facing a 65-foot high metro station, the site for Makau presented a unique challenge. How could one create an open, outdoor feel in such an enclosed urban setting? The answer lies in the brilliant reimagining of space by 23DDS. Taking advantage of Hyderabad’s favorable climate, the designers set out to craft an outdoor seating experience that defies its surroundings. The result is a space that doesn’t just blur the lines between indoors and outdoors – it redefines them.

The key to Makau’s ambiance lies in its masterful integration of natural elements. Natural light floods the space through polycarbonate sheets in the ceiling, while cleverly designed perforated baskets temper the harsh sunlight, creating a dappled, forest-like effect. In a nod to traditional cooling methods, the designers incorporated old-style coolers into the ventilation system. Ducts channel this naturally cooled air throughout the space, while open brickwork ensures continuous circulation. This not only maintains a pleasant temperature but also provides the moisture necessary for the lush greenery that adorns the restaurant.

Plants are integral to Makau’s design, thriving thanks to the carefully considered air circulation system. They create pockets of verdant life throughout the space, reinforcing the tropical sanctuary feel. In a stroke of genius, the designers turned the challenge of limited external views into an opportunity. The interior itself becomes a view to behold, with carefully crafted spaces and elements that draw the eye and create a sense of discovery.

At the heart of Makau lies a striking oval structure – a ‘space within a space’ that houses the nightclub area. This bold architectural feature serves multiple purposes. It creates a visual and functional separation between different areas of the venue. The oval form provides a striking contrast to the more open areas, adding depth and intrigue to the overall design. It also serves as a focal point, anchoring the space and guiding the flow of patrons.

The choice of materials at Makau is a careful balance of industrial chic and tropical warmth. Metal columns and beams form a composite structure with concrete slabs, providing a robust framework. Custom concrete blocks add texture and character to the walls. The flooring features bespoke pigmented concrete, adding to the earthy, natural feel. Wooden logged furniture, sourced specially from Bali, brings a touch of exotic warmth and authenticity. These elements come together to create a space that feels both raw and refined, urban and tropical.

Walking through Makau is like exploring a carefully curated jungle. Each turn reveals a new perspective, a cozy nook, or an unexpected vista. The overall effect is that of a bird’s nest – a sanctuary cobbled together from diverse elements, each contributing to a harmonious whole. Despite its urban location, Makau transports its guests to a tropical getaway. The clever use of space, materials, and natural elements creates an atmosphere that is at once exciting and relaxing, bustling and serene.

FACT FILE

Project Name – Makau

Client – Adithya Thanoj, Raja Simha Reddy

Built area – 18,516 sq.ft.

Site area – 11,236.56 sq.ft.

Location – Jubilee Hills

Architect – 23 Degrees Design Shift

Principal Architect/s: Ar. Srikanth Reddy, Ar. Neelesh, Ar. Raghuram

Photographer: Rithika Jain

Website: https://23dds.com/