Telugu Medium Captures The Essence Of The Deccan Region Through Vernacular Architecture

Telugu Medium, the newest addition to Hyderabad's culinary scene, is a masterpiece of design and heritage brought to life by the visionary Sona Reddy Studio. Spanning an impressive 5,200 square feet, this hospitality venture is a fusion of architectural brilliance and culinary excellence. Led by Sona Reddy and her talented team of designers including Anjali Miriyala and Jemy Joy, Telugu Medium redefines the gastronomic landscape. Situated in the picturesque Jubilee Hills, this authentic Andhra restaurant curated by co-founders Malvika Rao, Anil Karnati, and Rohit Medisetty, captures the essence of the Deccan through indigenous materials and vernacular building techniques.

The architectural marvel of Telugu Medium lies in its use of massive brick domes, vaults, and exposed load-bearing walls, minimizing reliance on concrete and steel. This not only creates a cooler interior environment suited for Hyderabad's arid climate but also adds to the aesthetic appeal of the space. The exterior facade, adorned with Karimnagar bricks, tells stories of heritage and intrigue, complemented by tactile brick textures and concrete planter boxes at the entrance. The alfresco waiting area, entirely paved in brick, seamlessly integrates the building with its surroundings, while outdoor seating under canopies invites guests to savor the outdoor experience amidst curved brick fins and picturesque views.

Stepping into Telugu Medium, guests are greeted by a vestibule enveloped in brick, leading to a dual-leveled restaurant with towering 13 ft walls and a double-height atrium bathed in natural light. The ceiling, a canvas of crafted brick domes and vaults, interacts with subtle lighting to create a dynamic ambiance that evolves throughout the day.

The interior design of Telugu Medium reflects its ethos, featuring timeless and evocative furniture that pays homage to South Indian dining traditions. Brick-molded ceilings, concrete columns, pink lime plastered walls, and textured tandoor flooring form a harmonious composition that resonates with the Deccan's soul. The internal staircase, rising into the atrium with fluted glass accents, adds an element of privacy and playfulness to the space. The ground level boasts a central bar counter crafted from locally sourced pink granite, while a serene rectangular pond with black limestone tiles and a spacious concrete bench serves as a tranquil focal point.

Telugu Medium is not just a restaurant; it's an immersive experience where indigenous materials and vernacular design converge to create a captivating narrative. Rustic charm meets contemporary elegance in this luxurious setting, offering patrons a journey that transcends mere visual aesthetics. With Telugu Medium, Sona Reddy Studio has crafted a timeless masterpiece that celebrates the rich heritage and architectural finesse of the Deccan region.

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