For Sawaii, an upscale modern culinary destination in suburban Dallas, our design journey was rooted in the rich, nostalgic narrative of the Great Maratha Empire from ancient India.

We sought to recreate the soul of a traditional Maratha Wada (mansion) through a contemporary lens. The space is defined by signature wooden multi-foliated arches and the warmth of exposed brick masonry, balanced by wooden jaalis (screens) reimagined for a modern setting.

The heart of the restaurant features a bespoke "Saree Wall"—a series of wooden window frames where, in place of stained glass, we curated vibrant panels of traditional silk sarees. This tactile element, paired with the soft glow of brass chandeliers and sconces, aims to transform the dining room into a "Sanctuary in Heritage." The design was meant to create a space that doesn’t just serve a meal, but invites guests into a storied past.