Raw Mango, Mumbai

By Aditi Gaitonde Fernandes

Sanjay Garg’s flagship store by architect Ashiesh Shah and interior designer, Isla Van Damme speaks volumes for the understated

Often in real life, the lesser said the better. And sometimes, the exact same principle applies to design. Take, for instance, this brand new store in Mumbai housed in a 115-year-old bungalow in South Mumbai. Sanjay Garg’s Raw Mango now retails at the same space as the erstwhile Bombay Electric store.

Airy and well lit, the brand’s first standalone store in the city is stark despite being very Indian in design. Sanjay enlisted the task to Mumbai-based architect and interior designer Ashiesh Shah and Goa-based Isla Van Damme, better known as Loulou. Entirely devoid of fluff and frills, the interior of this clothing store pays respect to the hidden beauties of the iconic Indo-Saracenic building. If you have ever wondered how to turn down the dial to Indian decor style, this store is the answer. It’s proof that space can be minimal, warm and be inviting, while still celebrating Indian heritage and sophistication.

Every single piece of furniture including the almirahs, coffee tables, seaters, benches are all customised to suit the soul of the store. At the entrance, one is greeted by a herd of terracotta horses. Inside, architectural elements like raw iron pillars and wooden beams across the roof are allowed to stand proud. Instead, only Garg’s handwoven textiles take centre stage while unpretentious interiors play the perfect host.