Cafe Musica
Project Type: Cafe Musica | Area: 3000 sq. ft. | Location: Red hills | Project Year: 2025
Designing a Dream: Studio Two for A.R. Rahman Sir – A 3,000 sq.ft. Creative Universe. Designing a second studio for my all-time favorite musician, A.R. Rahman sir, is a surreal blessing—one that I will always cherish with immense gratitude. To have the opportunity to translate the spirit of such an iconic artist into a tangible, immersive space is beyond a professional milestone; it is a dream realized, twice. This 3,000 sq.ft. recording studio is not only an architectural feat but an emotional, artistic tribute to the man whose music has shaped generations. From the very beginning, the vision for this studio was to create an expansive, inspiring environment that fuses form and function, where every corner encourages creativity and connection. The layout was designed to embrace openness and flow, with a central geodesic dome that serves as the main recording space—a powerful visual and acoustic focal point. This dome houses Rahman sir’s music console and is purposefully positioned to give him a clear line of sight across the entire studio, allowing him to interact effortlessly with the team and performers, making the recording process collaborative, joyful, and seamless. The live recording area features rustic brick walls, adding texture and warmth, while the mezzanine level—treated in serene shades of blue—acts as a contemplative upper space that maintains acoustic balance while offering a unique visual identity. Carefully selected wooden flooring runs throughout the studio, grounding the space in natural elegance and enhancing acoustic absorption. Lighting played a critical role in setting the emotional tone. We incorporated starry ambient lights, which give the studio a celestial, almost spaceship-like ambiance—ideal for an artist known for his ability to transport listeners into other worlds. The interplay of soft glow and architectural form creates a sense of calm and cosmic inspiration, aligning perfectly with Rahman sir’s soulful creative energy.
Every room within the studio was meticulously curated to reflect a unique narrative. Materials were chosen not just for aesthetic appeal but for their acoustic performance, durability, and emotional resonance. From the tactile surfaces to the color palette, each decision was made with purpose and passion. This is where interior design meets sound design—a harmonious marriage of art, architecture, and technology. We had the immense privilege of collaborating once again with India’s most respected acoustic expert, Mr. Jai Shankar, whose deep expertise ensured that the sonic experience in the studio is nothing short of divine. The walls were carefully treated with breathable acoustic fabrics and calibrated to perfection under his guidance. His contribution turned this space into not just a recording studio, but an acoustically sacred environment for music to be born and nurtured. The mezzanine offers a new perspective—both visually and creatively—while acting as a bridge between functionality and aesthetics. It’s a tranquil corner, balanced in tone and detail, fostering reflection and observation during production sessions. Designing this studio has been a labor of love—a second opportunity to serve someone who has deeply inspired my creative journey. I remain humbled, overwhelmed, and forever thankful to God for this honor. This project is not just about design—it’s about emotion, energy, and paying homage to one of the greatest artists the world has known. This studio stands as a sanctuary for sound, a place where music flows freely, surrounded by thoughtful architecture, soulful lighting, and materials that celebrate both tradition and modernity. It’s a tribute to A.R. Rahman sir’s legacy and a space that invites boundless musical exploration.
