#HauteSpaces: Lower Parel Gets A Charismatic New Hangout

Who doesn’t love a pretty home/work space? I know the answer to that one. So now, every week I will go in search of the most stunning indoor spaces in our country that will inspire the inner decorator in you. Unique, colourful, or quirky, these photo stories are sure to leave you spellbound, like mouth-hanging-open spellbound. If you know or use a space that fits the description, ping me and we can chat! It can be anything from a home to an office, a studio to a restaurant — if it is fun, I’m game.

If you are a Mumbaikar, you surely know that Lower Parel is the new ‘It’ hangout spot. From bars and restaurants, to a mall and a theatre, you can spend an entire day here without getting bored (we’re a little jelly of the peeps who work here). The best part is that it’s ever-expanding, constantly brewing new restaurants and hangout joints. Joining the team is a new gymkhana-themed restaurant — Gymkhana 91. A little obvious on the name, yes, but you get the groove, right?

So how did the owner, Aditya Hegde, decide to break the cultural commotion in the already busy area? He got the old Bombay-Gymkhana charm back, reminiscent of those old-school post swim or squash indulgences, where high society people meet and greet. Decked up women and suave men making small talk and lots of merry — ever so Gatsby, no? The huge, and I mean HUGE postiive of the Lower Parel edition of the Gymkhana is that you don’t need to be a member to enter and enjoy this spot. Moving on from the feels to the décor, I can safely say that it will remind you of the old Bombay charm and wish them back.

Sunlight streams through the space during the day thanks to the glass and wooden slanted roof, and wrought-iron chandeliers light it up in the evenings. The bar area has been designed thoughtfully to match the ambience and looks like a place that calls for some great wine.

Like every place has a USP, this one has an 8-foot long clock that has been designed by interior designer Keith Menon, which is made of metal and clear glass. Not only is it the largest clock in the city, it’s gorgeous. The simplistic seating complements the patterned floor, instantly putting you at ease. With a modern vibe in n old-school Gymkhana set-up, Gymkhana 91 looks perfect for a chilled out Friday night.