Fact File
Location: New Delhi
Size: 370 sq m
Principal Designers: Udaai Batra, and Navneet Kaur
Photography by: Suryan Dang

The Torani Flagship Store in New Delhi by Bora Dà Designs is a reflection of Sindhi art and architecture. “Designing the Torani Flagship Store was one of the best design journeys we’ve had. It was exciting to have a client who was not interested in modern, luxury, or eclectic styles—common styles seen today. Torani, as a brand, draws deep inspiration from Sindhi culture and its design elements and has incorporated them beautifully in its clothes. The brief, therefore, was simple: Sindhi architecture. We were to create a space that was clean, void of any clutter, and had an unfinished, antique look. The space had to look bare yet reflect a rich cultural heritage,” the designers explained.

The basic theme revolves around earthy colours and the rawness of materials. The entire store is painted in a grey hue with a rough, grainy texture lending a rugged feel that takes one back to the lost architecture of the Sindh region. The tree is one of the primary design elements, located centrally and decorated with brass bells of various styles. The saffron thread that suspends each bell from the tree reminds us of one of the rituals deeply rooted in Indian culture. Right in front of this lies the Nandi—the mount for Lord Shiva. It greets one while sitting grandly on the wooden pedestal. It is cast in brass and gives the store a touch of royal essence.

Looking mirrors are set inside arched-shaped frames that draw strong inspiration from Persian architecture (which was a significant influence on Sindhi architecture). The arches embolden the overall theme subtly. The lighting is practical and in tune with the needs of a contemporary store. The focus lights have been positioned to create a spotlight effect while not hindering the view of details in the products displayed. The display stands are bare metal with a hint of paint, accentuating the drama called for by the clothes themselves. The accessory displays are made in a similar style, with white marble stone. The knobs used for hanging scarves, bags, and so on are cast in the shape of the brand logo. Finally, the façade features arches, levels, and grand glass doors with a brass logo unit, creating a strong first impression amidst the surrounding stores.