Masti at La Mer in Dubai is a celebration of colours with Indian flavours

As the name suggests, ‘Masti’ which translates to fun and mischief, is truly what this place is all about. As you enter the place, it welcomes you with stunning glass chandeliers, brilliant portraits on the wall, monkey artwork which is witty, and vibrant colours which can be seen in every item of design and décor. The beachfront terrace and lounge allows guests to enjoy the fresh sea breezes, and a laidback, yet playful experience. The upstairs bar area offers the panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf with comfortable low lounge seating and high tables, perfect for a relaxed outing.

The ground floor is a textured blue shell against which all other elements sit. With a busier backdrop of the Elephant Bar, the first floor shell is kept grey with negative spaces highlighted with a matt gold line drawing borrowed from the stained glass patterns. Hand glazed tiles and handcrafted brass basins accentuate the restrooms. Simple brass spacers laid as a grid into poured concrete floors offset the visual drama of the interiors. A more intricate Kolam-inspired pattern defines the flooring pattern at the entry pavillions.

Indian design firm, Delhi-based Studio Lotus, worked towards the interiors of this place. Asha Sairam, team leader and project designer, Studio Lotus, says “The vision for the project was to make it a modern and contemporary destination that is bold and vibrant and buzzing with energy, much like the nation that inspired the concept. The site is a two-storied beachfront property with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf and the city skyline.

Studio Lotus was approached to design the interiors for the 743sqm program comprising an all-day dining, bar, evening lounge, private dining room and Gin Room across an equal mix of indoor-outdoor spaces seating about 200. With the program clearly defining distinct day and night spaces, the core design approach was to create a series of zones that would segregate each experience as one moves through them.” Space is dotted with modern expressions of Indian art, craft and architecture set against a vibrant palette of colours. “The experience is made playful with whimsical elements like the handcrafted stained-glass elephant bar, the inlayed marble game tables and quirky graphic prints on the cushions and upholstery, inspired by the Indian narrative,” adds Sairam.

Masti-ful menu
From the mind of award-winning chef Hari Nayak, the menu offers a reinterpretation of Indian cuisine. From small to large plates, to culinary journeys for two and irresistible side dishes, guests will be spoilt for choice. Highlights include black bass ceviche, a Peruvian classic with lime, jalapeno and crispy plantain, bhatti merguez delivers a heady mix of African and Indian flavours with succulent lamb, caramelised onion and a chilli garlic masala. One must also try the tuna bhel tartare, beetroot croquette, saag paneer lasagna, sun-dried tomato prawns, and Indie veggie mix.