PABLO — THE ART CAFÉ LOUNGE
Navi Mumbai | Human Canvas Studio
Project Overview
PABLO- THE ART CAFÉ LOUNGE in Turbhe, Navi Mumbai is an artful lounge project themed on Pablo Picasso, his life and works. The site was a 6500 sq.ft. industrial shed with a nice volume that prompted to go for a mezzanine level housing VIP seating and the stage area. Right at the bottom of the stage is designed an abstract shape bar inspired from Picasso’s style of abstract art! The entire loft above this bar, from one end to another is similarly continued in an abstract profile adding a lot of rhythm and dynamism to the whole space. The interiors are eccentric with a lot of attention given to smaller details. When it comes to experimentation in design, our zeal was at its peak and we wanted to go a little extra in order to reflect Pablo Picasso’s personality and his works. We therefore tried, arty tables, weird statues, installations, bold colors and artworks, and so many artful things as a part of the decor. Our focus was on taking inspiration from his art styles cubism, rose period and blue period and reflecting that in our decor. Be it red walls or red and blue upholstery coordinated with other knick-knacks and statues, we made sure there is abundance of all of these to experience. One will find statues, canvas paintings, sketches, wall arts, frames, doodles, installations, and so many artful works of Pablo Picasso harmoniously arranged thus engaging the interiors! The furniture and the overall decor is barn in order to balance the arty tone and give it an artist’s warehouse feel with lots of art supplies and empty canvases displayed and kept for customers to use it thus making the place very interactive. The building elevation design is a series of abstract bands, celebrating Pablo’s style of abstract art. The huge cantilevered porch homogenizes the whole scheme and adds to the status it deserves! Form follows fiction is truly seen in this entire project.
The Design Vision
Human Canvas Studio led the concept development and architectural interior vision for the project, working in close collaboration with Sam's Drafting Board to translate a bold creative brief into built reality. The guiding philosophy was simple: design not just a café, but a living canvas.
The spatial strategy was as deliberate as it was dynamic. At 3,000 sq. ft., the layout was carefully orchestrated to serve dual purposes — an intimate lounge experience by day, and a fully functional venue for art workshops, live exhibitions, and creative events by night. Flexible spatial arrangements, thoughtful sightlines, and layered zoning ensure the space transforms effortlessly between its many roles.
Key Design Highlights
Thematic Immersion — Every design element pays homage to Picasso's artistic legacy, from curated artwork and sculptural installations to material choices and colour palettes inspired by his most celebrated periods.
Interactive Spatial Design — Purposefully designed to encourage participation, not just observation. Open canvas stations, easel-ready corners, and adaptable zones make Pablo a venue where guests pick up a brush as naturally as they pick up a menu.
Barn Décor Aesthetic — A warm, textured backdrop rooted in raw, tactile materials that contrast beautifully with the vibrant art pieces, creating visual tension that feels both rustic and culturally rich.
Workshop & Exhibition Ready — The layout accommodates rotating exhibitions and structured art workshops without disruption to the café's everyday flow — a rare feat of multi-functional design.
Bespoke Detailing — Acute attention to detail across every touchpoint: custom joinery, art-integrated furniture, lighting that shifts mood across zones, and surface treatments that tell a story.
