By Ayman Anika
There are places where people go to eat, and then there are places where people go to feel. Sufi House, designed by architectural firm Irenderer, is one such place – a sanctuary where architecture, story-telling, and gastronomy seamlessly merge. Nestled in the heart of Dhanmondi-2 – a place that often moves too fast – Sufi House invites guests to pause, reconnect, and embrace the moment.
From the moment one steps inside, the glow of warm textures soothes the eye, and every design element whispers tales of Sufi mysticism. More than a restaurant, Sufi House is a curated experience of human connection and mindfulness, created under the artistic direction of Arifa Malik Bristy, architecture and CEO of Irenderer, alongside her talented team: KS Ambereen, Shamsina Zaman Sarah, and Meraz Solanki.
The Genesis of Sufi Reverie
The design concept of Sufi House, “Sufi Reverie,” was not just born out of aesthetics but from a profound vision. It stemmed from the dream of the restaurant’s owner, Salman Latif, who sought to build a space where people could develop mindfulness and forge genuine human connections – a rarity in today’s digitally absorbed world.
“In a time when people are often glued to their phones, even during meals, we wanted to create a space that encourages guests to slow down, reconnect with their surroundings, and savor moments with loved ones,” says Bristy
This idea was channeled into an architectural experience that blends the spiritual depth of Sufi teachings with the warmth and hospitality of a traditional gathering space. The principles of unity, harmony, and living in the present moment are reflected in the very textures, forms, and light that shape the restaurant.
The Matka Wall: A Homage to Tradition
At the heart of the design lies the Matka Wall Installation, a stunning semi-partition that elegantly divides the waiting and dining areas. Crafted using traditional matkas, the same earthen pots used to serve the restaurant’s signature Matka Biryani, this feature is both symbolic and functional.
Matkas, with their raw, unpolished texture, are emblematic of Sufi humility and earthiness – a vessel not just for food but for stories passed down through generations. As diners gaze upon this installation, they are subtly reminded of the timeless connection between food, culture, and mysticism.
‘All About Spices’ Wall: A Sensory and Cultural Portal
The entrance wall is far from ordinary. Designed as an interactive gateway, the “All About Spices” wall is lined with conical flasks filled with vibrant herbs and spices, each integral to Sufi cuisine.
“We designed this feature to spark curiosity and conversation,” Bristy shares. “Guests are naturally drawn to identify the spices, which fosters shared experiences – one of the core values of Sufi teachings”
This wall is not just a visual treat but also an educational experience, encouraging diners to explore the depth of flavor and aroma that define Sufi culinary traditions.
Clay Disc Herb Installations: A Connection Between Food and Space
Embedded in the concrete walls, the Clay Disc Herb Installations create a bridge between the kitchen and dining space. These discs, infused with dried herbs and spices, tie the physical environment to the restaurant’s culinary philosophy. “By integrating actual cooking ingredients into the architecture, we have created a dining experience that engages the senses beyond just taste,” Bristy explains.
These textured discs make the walls themselves feel alive – a poetic embodiment of flavor and culture that guests can see and touch as they wait for their meals.
The Arched Moon Mirror: A Reflection of the Cosmos
One of the most evocative elements of Sufi House is the Arched Moon Mirror. Inspired by the celestial rhythms of the Sufi calendar, this feature is positioned strategically to capture and reflect light, changing its aura throughout the day.
“Sufism celebrates the beauty of the cosmos and the fleeting nature of time. The Arched Moon Mirror adds a celestial touch, grounding diners in the experience of the present,” Bristy notes. Its curved form and soft reflection mimic the lunar phases, serving as a silent invitation for self-reflection and contemplation.
Beyond Design
The success of Sufi House lies in its ability to seamlessly blend the tangible with the intangible. It is not just about dining but about feeling – feeling the textures of tradition, the warmth of Sufi hospitality, and the wisdom of an age-old culture, all wrapped in the comforting embrace of beautifully curated design.
Every detail, from the scent of spices to the soft glow of neon lights, works in harmony to create an experience that lingers in the heart long after the meal is over. In essence, Sufi House is a love letter to Sufism, a place where architecture and culinary artistry come together in perfect unison.
