Musaafer

Musaafer, NYC, is a whimsical and fantastical Indian eatery located in the Financial District of New York, created in collaboration with Chromed Design Studio. Housed in a listed heritage building, the project posed significant challenges, requiring extensive design research, engineering, and detailed installation documentation to ensure successful assembly by US contractors.

In addition to the interior installations, AKFD developed the furniture, wallpapers, interior accessories, and even the serveware. All elements were designed in close consultation with the operators, ensuring that the solutions were both functional and aligned with the eatery’s vibrant concept.

Jharokha

Solid marble panels with infills of various glass textures create this stunning installation, a testament to India’s ancient craftsmanship. Fabricated in small modules in Jaipur, the panels were transported and installed in New York. The design draws inspiration from the chini-khanas of Mughal architecture, blending traditional artistry with contemporary installation techniques.

Arch Dome Seating

The Gateway is framed by large octagonal seating niches, evoking the way people gather around historic monuments. Its grand scale and meticulous detailing are inspired by the architectural language of Mughal structures.

The Gateway

Inspired by the great Mughal monuments, the central feature at Musaaafer NYC is the Gateway. Drawing from the Taj Mahal, its design is simplified to ensure it complements rather than competes with the true star — the food!

Shikargah

Inspired by the classic Shikargah pattern found in Banarasi sarees, this interpretation in solid brass, featuring handcrafted animal motifs, creates a striking reception feature for Musaaafer New York. Above the reception table, a hand-painted panel draws inspiration from hunting scenes preserved in the archives of Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur. The exterior is finished in natural silk sourced from Assam and hand-embroidered with the logo, adding richness and craftsmanship to the installation.

Sheesh Mahal

This installation of six groin vaults is made using hundreds of thousands of tiny convex mirrors, which illustrate night sky when a candle is held beneath them. This technique, called Thikrie, is used extensively in Indian architecture to create wonderful halls in the Grand palaces across Northern India. The ceiling, engineered and crafted in India, had to come into the site through a narrow opening of 8 ft x 4 ft.

Bar Area Bar Counter

Solid casted, ice like glass blocks, form the front of the bar. Handcrafted by artisans in Firozabad in northern India, these glass blocks have been custom-made for The Musafer New York. Delicately lit, this subtle feature is not just visually arresting, but also one that invites the touch. Custom made brass features form the foot rail.