Dishoom’s sister brand, Permit Room, has opened its third restaurant following a careful refurbishment project by interior architecture and design studio, Macaulay Sinclair.
Located on one of Oxford’s oldest streets in North Bailey House, the design team transformed an empty, concrete shell into a hospitality space bursting with character, intrigue and style.
Permit Room’s interior design draws its name and inspiration from the popular, low-lit drinking spaces of Bombay – historic institutions where only guests with a permit could purchase and consume alcohol during the prohibition era.
In addition, there are influences from today’s buzzing Bombay quarter bars, which are typically no-frills night-time establishments serving stronger drinks at affordable prices.
By combining this specific character with the charm of Indian culture, and the hospitality of a traditional British pub, Macaulay Sinclair has created a warm, welcoming neighbourhood-feel.
Ian Roome, director at Macaulay Sinclair, said: “We’re proud to have collaborated with the Dishoom team for the interior architecture and design of its third Permit Room in the UK – a brand with soul and nostalgia that stirs a sense of good times, whatever the occasion.”
Macaulay Sinclair’s work spans some of the most successful hospitality brands throughout the UK, Europe, the USA and beyond.
Prominent names include Hawksmoor, Dishoom, Permit Room, Flat Iron and Caravan.
The team at Macaulay Sinclaire is driven to uncover and define meaning in every project, with a keen focus on inspiration, driven by rigorous research.
By linking historical relevance to a restaurant or bar environment, the team often explores local geography, a relevant prominent figure, or sometimes the detail from a key event.
Inspiration comes from far and wide and the team always looks to take on new creative challenges, aiming to bring ingenuity, inspiration and technical knowledge to each project.
“We place huge emphasis on authenticity,” says Ian Roome, “conducting in-depth research for every project we embark on.
“Much of the furniture has been hand selected from a variety of locations, including bazaars and markets in Mumbai.
“Although this wasn’t a heritage building, we still wanted some of the existing building fabric to form a backdrop to the fit out; exposed ceilings and unplastered walls, for the purpose of adding texture and character.
“Ultimately, we want to create sustainable spaces that will stand the test of time – and Permit Room is testament to that ethos.”
Music plays a core part of the Permit Room, it is referenced across the wall art and through the inclusion of a permanent DJ booth, which hosts both local and south Asian DJs on the line up.
The informal seating arrangement allows for cosy and intimate dining, larger groups and late-night partying.
Permit Rooms can also be found in Cambridge and Brighton.