In the quiet embrace of Sendh Lake, Elsewhere stands as a tranquil counterpoint to the buzz of Raipur. Designed by Studio Skywell, this lakeside restaurant and lounge bar is not just a dining space — it’s an architectural meditation that dissolves the line between indoors and out, built and grown, seen and sensed.

The project reimagines a raw, unfinished structure into a thoughtfully planned retreat for sundowners, weekend gatherings, and community events — all while celebrating the rhythm of nature around it. The client’s vision was clear: create a space that doesn’t just serve food but invites people to pause, look out at the lake, and breathe. And so, Studio Skywell responded with a design that’s fluid, humble, and strikingly honest.

Central to the experience is the choice of material — bamboo. It defines the ceiling, softens acoustics, and lends a warm tactility that makes every space feel inviting. But the choice isn’t just aesthetic; it reflects Studio Skywell’s commitment to sustainability and light-footed construction. The bamboo structure reduces structural load while aligning with the ecological needs of the lakeside location.

Architecturally, all services — from water tanks to ventilation — are tucked away behind the main seating zone, ensuring uninterrupted lake views. The roof over these services is covered in local thatch, which doubles as an aesthetic gesture and thermal barrier. The open deck, semi-shaded upper floor, and flowing interior layout create a calm, cohesive environment that mirrors the stillness of the water it overlooks.

The interior design continues the philosophy of restraint. Seamless floors and walls form a soft shell, with curved transitions echoing ripples in the lake. A palette of earth tones, soft lighting, and minimal décor lets the bamboo ceiling take visual centerstage, adding drama without noise.

Studio Skywell — founded by architects Twinkle Nathani and Mayank Wadhwa — is known for creating architecture that breathes. With a portfolio spanning residential and hospitality projects in and around Raipur, the firm focuses on environmentally conscious solutions rooted in local contexts. Their design philosophy revolves around creating “sky-wells” — pockets of space where light, air, and nature are invited in, not shut out.

Elsewhere is a true manifestation of that philosophy. It’s a space where nothing shouts and everything flows. A space where architectural control creates the illusion of effortlessness. And most importantly, a space that proves that quiet, when done well, can be louder than bold.