Terrai

Sona Reddy Studio has crafted a unique culinary haven in Hyderabad, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of Telangana. The clients envisioned a space that would seamlessly weave art, architecture, and gastronomy to celebrate the essence of the region. The result is an immersive environment that resonates with the heritage and vibrancy of Telangana.
The restaurant, aptly named "Terrai," draws its inspiration from the terrain of Telangana — the land, its people, and their culture. From its thoughtfully curated interiors to its distinctive material palette, every element contributes to a narrative of tradition and contemporary aesthetics.
The site, located on the ground floor of a high-rise corporate building, was transformed from an open plan into a multifaceted dining experience. The layout features a central dining area visible upon entry, two private dining rooms (PDRs) offering an exclusive ambiance, outdoor seating with a dynamic metal grid designed to evolve as creepers and climbers take over, two washrooms, and a state-of-the-art kitchen. The existing glass façade offers glimpses of the terracotta interiors, blending the outdoor and indoor spaces harmoniously.
A carefully chosen material palette was employed to enhance the authenticity and tactile quality of the space. Black granite and Kota stone were used for ikat-inspired flooring, terracotta texture paint added warmth and earthy tones, wood was employed for carpentry, windows, and doors, and stained glass brought intricate window details. Metal was utilized for the main door and outdoor grid, gypsum for the false ceiling, and Dokra metalwork provided artisanal accents.
The design includes several distinctive elements that capture the spirit of Telangana. A blue metal door featuring ikat-inspired door handles creates a striking first impression. The entrance lobby planter ledge, crafted from pink sandstone, adds a natural touch. The ikat flooring, a combination of black granite and Kota stone, forms a unique lobby pattern, while stained glass windows with abstract patterns bring color and artistry. Stepped frames for doors and windows, inspired by Telangana’s step wells, and Bathukamma-inspired lights, large-scale fixtures that highlight the cultural essence, add to the immersive experience. Ikat wall cladding in terracotta finish breaks visual monotony, while framed Narahari art in Dokra metal frames celebrates the work of local artisans. A maximalist ceiling with ikat checkered patterns creates a bold false ceiling, complemented by fabric wall lights with abstracted ikat designs that bring subtle elegance. Stretched fabric lights and a gold ceiling elevate the PDRs for a luxurious experience, while the metal grid outdoor enclosure, featuring openings with focal plants visible through them, enhances the natural ambiance.
The project is a collaborative effort involving various skilled contributors. Photography was by Pankaj Anand, lighting by SPKValo, stained glass by Hyderi Design Studio, and art by Narahari’s Telangana Art. Custom lights were crafted by Mother Gone Mad, wall lights by Purple Turtles, and furniture by Bram Woodworking Studio, Ek Design, and Soft Touch. The landscape design was conceptualized by Rohit Associates.
Through its deliberate design choices, Terrai becomes more than just a restaurant; it’s a cultural journey. From the ikat patterns to the Bathukamma lights, every detail reflects the vibrancy of Telangana’s traditions. This is a space where art, architecture, and culinary experiences converge to create lasting memories.