PROJECTS & COLLABORATIONS → QUILON
Quilon
By Atelier Wren
DATE
2025
LOCATION
London, UK
Discover the luxury hospitality furniture supplied for Quilon, a fine dining Indian Restaurant
Nestled within the prestigious St James’ Court, Taj Hotel London, Quilon has long been celebrated for its exceptional take on the rich and diverse flavours of South India. Explore the curated selection of contract furniture we provided for this fine dining destination.
The Location
Holding a Michelin star since 2008, the restaurant offers a dining experience that beautifully balances tradition and innovation, both on the plate and in its interior design.
When Atelier Wren undertook the redesign of Quilon’s interiors, their vision was to create a space that reflected the warmth, vibrancy and layered textures of Indian culture, while maintaining the sophisticated restraint expected within one of London’s most iconic hotels. Kirkdale Studios were delighted to collaborate on this prestigious project, supplying a curated collection of bespoke and handcrafted furniture to complement the interior’s refined narrative.
Michelin Recognition and Culinary Heritage
Quilon first earned its Michelin star in 2008, a significant achievement that marked it as one of the few restaurants in the world championing South Indian coastal cuisine at such a level. Under the leadership of Chef Sriram Aylur, the restaurant has retained its star every year since, a testament to its consistent excellence and dedication to flavour, hospitality and innovation.
The menu celebrates the cuisine of India’s southern coastline, featuring delicate seafood dishes, refined vegetarian plates and a balance of traditional techniques with contemporary presentation. This same balance between authenticity and modernity is reflected in the restaurant’s interior, where design and cuisine share a common philosophy of craft and depth.
Craftsmanship and Culture
The design concept at Quilon draws inspiration from coastal South India, expressed through a sandy, sun-washed colour palette and a focus on natural materials and tactile finishes. Timber, cane and soft golden upholstery work together to evoke a sense of quiet luxury and cultural resonance.
Kirkdale Studios contributed several key furniture pieces to the restaurant, each chosen to harmonise with Atelier Wren’s textural vision:
- Protis Side Chair and Protis Armchair – crafted from solid timber with natural cane inserts, these pieces blend timeless craftsmanship with subtle contemporary detailing. Their dark, warm-toned brown stain grounds the restaurant’s airy palette, while the canework brings an artisanal lightness to the dining setting.
- Memphis Barstool – designed with a cane backrest and upholstered seat, this piece ties in with the cane motif throughout the restaurant, creating continuity across bar and dining areas.
- Winnie Lounge Chair – upholstered in Misia Klara by Casamance, a rich golden fabric that catches the light beautifully, this chair adds depth and richness to Quilon’s lounge spaces.
- Dali Cane Lounge Chair and bespoke Kirkdale poufs – introducing a relaxed, tactile comfort to the more informal corners, with luxurious red and gold velvets echoing the warmth of the lighting and the depth of the cuisine.
Bespoke stone-topped dining tables – featuring turned timber bases and geometric veneered coffee tables, all crafted by Kirkdale’s in-house team, offering a foundation of quiet sophistication for the restaurant’s intricate detailing.
Material Warmth and Subtle Opulence
The furniture’s warm timber tones, cane detailing and plush upholstery reflect the interior’s layered design language, a blend of Indian influence and London refinement. Each piece was thoughtfully finished to enhance the ambient glow of Quilon’s lighting, creating an environment that feels both intimate and elevated. The result is a restaurant interior that feels inherently crafted, where every texture tells a story and every material choice reinforces the culinary experience.
Culinary Excellence Meets Design Integrity
Much like its interiors, Quilon’s menu offers a sophisticated exploration of South Indian coastal cuisine. Expect delicate spicing, slow-cooked seafood and inventive vegetarian dishes, each plate a reflection of Chef Sriram Aylur’s commitment to authenticity and innovation. The design and furniture work in harmony with the food, both deeply rooted in tradition yet presented with modern restraint and finesse.
At Kirkdale Studios, we are proud to have played a part in shaping the visual and tactile identity of such a renowned dining destination. Quilon stands as a perfect example of how thoughtful furniture design can enhance atmosphere, comfort and storytelling, creating a space that is as memorable as the cuisine it celebrates.
Explore the textiles and textures that create the world behind Quilon
Explore more of our hospitality projects to see how Kirkdale Studios collaborates with leading designers and brands to create distinctive, design-led interiors.
If you are planning a new restaurant, bar or hotel project, our team would be delighted to discuss how we can bring your vision to life with bespoke furniture and craftsmanship tailored to your space. → Email us at hello@kirkdalestudios.com
Quilon is located within St James’ Court, Taj Hotel, London SW1E 6AF, and is open for lunch and dinner from Monday to Saturday. Guests can expect refined South Indian coastal cuisine, featuring fresh seafood, slow-cooked curries and delicate vegetarian dishes, all prepared with the signature precision that has earned the restaurant its Michelin star every year since 2008.
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