DESTINATION GUIDE WITH ÆQUŌ GALLERY
Mumbai Design City Guide: A Curated Journey with Æquō Gallery
Mumbai is a city of contrasts, where colonial architecture meets contemporary creativity, historic neighbourhoods sit alongside emerging cultural districts, and craftsmanship remains deeply woven into daily life. For architects and designers, it offers a rich landscape of material culture, artistic expression and layered urban experiences that continue to shape India's creative identity.
For this edition of the Designeers Destination Guide, founders of Aequo Gallery, Tarini Jindal Handa and creative director Florence Louisy, share a personal edit of the places that inspire their practice, from contemporary art galleries and artisan workshops to iconic restaurants, heritage districts and design-led hospitality.
OCTOBER 2026
Words: designeers
breakfast and coffee:
Subko, Bandra
Subko brings craft coffee, artisanal baking and contemporary Indian design to Mumbai’s Bandra neighbourhood. Make time to explore the surrounding streets, whose character is part of the appeal.
favourite Art Gallery:
Jhaveri Contemporary
Jhaveri Contemporary brings South Asian and international contemporary art to Mumbai’s historic arts district. Its considered exhibition programme offers fresh perspectives on the region’s artists and their place in a wider cultural conversation.
Jhaveri Contemporary
A FINE DINING EXPERIENCE:
Masque
Set in Mumbai’s historic mill district, Masque brings contemporary Indian cuisine and a thoughtful wine programme to a characterful industrial space. A distinctive fine dining address for those drawn to food and architecture.
A place to Eat Lunch:
Britannia & Company
Britannia & Company offers a taste of Mumbai’s culinary heritage in characterful historic interiors. Come for lunch and linger over the architectural details and old-world hospitality that give this restaurant its enduring appeal.
favourite COCKTAIL BAR:
Kala Ghoda Wine Bar
Kala Ghoda Wine Bar offers a relaxed stop in Mumbai’s arts district, with intimate interiors and a welcoming local crowd. A favourite among designers and creatives, it’s a natural place to unwind after exploring the neighbourhood.
a design hotel to stay in:
The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel
An icon of Mumbai hospitality, The Taj Mahal Palace remains one of India's most significant historic hotels. Its grand architecture, heritage interiors and waterfront location overlooking the Gateway of India have made it a symbol of the city for more than a century. For travellers seeking a more intimate alternative,
favourite botique and Concept Store:
Raw Mango
Near the Taj Mahal Palace, Raw Mango’s Mumbai boutique pairs contemporary interpretations of Indian textiles with interiors by Studio Mumbai. Rich materials and skilled craftsmanship connect the clothing with the architecture.
an artist everyone should know about:
Jeevaram Suthar
Based in Alibag, master craftsman Jeevaram Suthar brings generations of Indian craft knowledge to contemporary design. His workshop reflects the skill and material understanding that keep traditional techniques alive.
A Neighbourhood That Defines the City:
Bandra
Bandra’s narrow streets bring together Portuguese-era houses, local cafés, independent boutiques and contemporary creative spaces. Explore on foot for a glimpse of Mumbai’s architectural heritage and everyday neighbourhood life.
A place to find art, furniture and design objects:
Mahendra Doshi Antiques
On Mumbai’s Malabar Hill, Mahendra Doshi’s workshop and showroom house vintage furniture, architectural salvage and pieces awaiting restoration. Explore antique finds and the craftsmanship behind their preservation, with sweeping views across the city.
Iconic Architectural Landmark:
Ballard Estate
Grand colonial-era buildings and carefully planned streets define Mumbai’s Ballard Estate. The district’s quieter pace invites a closer look at its architectural details and the history woven into the city’s urban fabric.
The Best Spot for Sunset:
Marine Drive
For sunset in Mumbai, head to Marine Drive’s waterfront promenade. Sweeping views across the Arabian Sea give way to the glow of the city skyline as evening settles in.
photography credits
Mahendra Doshi Antiques: Vivek Gandhi
The Taj Mahal Palace: Saman Me Kala
More from Æquō Gallery
Æquō: Craft, Continuity and the Future of Indian Collectible Design
Founded by Tarini Jindal Handa and Florence Louisy, Æquō gallery brings global attention to India’s extraordinary artisanship by pairing master craftspeople with visionary international designers. This feature delves into Æquo’s creative philosophy, its collaborative process, and the expanding global influence of a gallery reshaping the narrative of Indian design.
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