reimagining a rooftop bar in Udaipur as an experiential narrative.
Project Name : Abaar
Project Location : Udaipur, India
Architect/Interior Designer : Studio Rust
Principal Architect/Designer : Sourish Rao and Nupur Sahay
Photographer: Soup
Perched against the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Pichola, Udaipur, India and the undulating Aravalli Range, Abaar offers more than a setting. It creates a mood, one that feels almost cinematic in its unfolding. A lake, a mountain range, the historic city, and the glow of a setting sun come together to form an experience that feels both intimate and expansive.
Yet, what truly sets Abaar apart is not just its location, but the way it reveals itself. Designed by Sourish Rao and Nupur Sahay, the space has been conceived as a journey rather than a destination. It invites curiosity, gently guiding visitors through a sequence of spaces that unfold gradually, each moment carefully choreographed.
The name Abaar, meaning now in the local dialect, reflects the philosophy at the heart of the project. The design encourages a pause, a shift away from the pace of everyday life, and an immersion into the present. It is a space where time feels suspended, where one is invited to slow down and truly engage with the surroundings.
The experience begins subtly. The entrance is restrained, defined by muted terracotta tones and a soft beige mural that sets a calm, almost introspective tone. There is no immediate reveal of the dramatic views beyond. Instead, a series of gentle cues guide movement inward. A curved archway, a textured wicker wall, and carefully framed glimpses encourage exploration, allowing anticipation to build naturally.
As one moves deeper into the space, the design begins to open up. The material palette draws heavily from the landscape of Udaipur. Earthy tones dominate, with terracotta, beige, and soft greens echoing the colours of the region and the shifting hues of sunset. The ceiling introduces organic patterns that abstract the surrounding mountains, creating a subtle visual dialogue between the built form and nature.
An unexpected touch of mauve pink appears in the outer zones, adding a layer of warmth and contrast while still remaining harmonious with the overall palette. This careful balance of colour ensures that the interiors feel grounded, yet dynamic.
Abaar is organised into three distinct zones, each offering a different experience while remaining connected through a cohesive design language. The challenge was to create a sense of openness without compromising comfort, especially in the context of Rajasthan’s climate.
The indoor space functions as a cool, controlled environment, offering respite during the intense summer months. Beyond this lies a shaded middle deck, designed to provide comfort while maintaining a connection to the outdoors. This transitional space acts as a bridge between enclosure and openness.
At the highest level sits the sky deck, the most dramatic expression of the project. Offering uninterrupted 360 degree views of the city, it allows guests to fully engage with the landscape. Despite its openness, the design maintains a sense of intimacy. Carefully placed foliage and lightweight planters create pockets of privacy without obstructing the panoramic vistas.
Material choices further reinforce the connection to place. Fixed seating crafted from locally sourced Kashiya stone and brick grounds the design in its context. In contrast, lounge seating introduces a more relaxed and informal atmosphere, inviting guests to linger.
The bar, positioned within the middle deck, becomes a central anchor. Finished in red travertine stone, it acts as both a visual and social focal point, connecting the various zones while maintaining a sense of continuity throughout the space.
Local craftsmanship plays a significant role in shaping the identity of Abaar. Wickerwork walls, murals created by regional artists, and traditional rice paintings add layers of cultural richness. The artwork, particularly the mural inspired by sunset silhouettes, reflects the surrounding landscape while bringing an artisanal quality into the interiors.
Ultimately, Abaar transcends the idea of a typical rooftop venue. It is a space designed for experience, for presence, and for connection. Here, architecture does not compete with nature but enhances it, allowing the beauty of Udaipur to unfold at its own pace.
Project Name : Abaar
Project Location : Udaipur, India
Architect/Interior Designer : Studio Rust
Principal Architect/Designer : Sourish Rao and Nupur Sahay
Photographer: Soup
