Tarq Gallery by SquareWorks: A Contemporary Restoration in Mumbai

A Harmonious Blend of Heritage and Modernity

Tarq Gallery, designed by SquareWorks, is a striking example of architectural restoration and adaptive reuse. Situated in Mumbai, this contemporary art gallery occupies the ground floor of a 120-year-old heritage building, positioned between two distinct urban fabrics—the Victorian Gothic structures of the east and the Art Deco influences of the west. This transformation seamlessly bridges the city's historical and modern architectural narratives.

Restoring the Past, Designing for the Future

The primary design objective was to respect the historical integrity of the structure while infusing it with a contemporary aesthetic. The restoration process emphasized natural light, reviving the original brick masonry openings and enhancing the 14-foot-high ceilings with exposed steel columns and beams. Wood filler accents were applied to the structural elements, ensuring a balance between industrial character and refined craftsmanship.

Custom Craftsmanship and Material Innovation

A key aspect of the project was its commitment to custom carpentry and site-specific fabrication. Moving away from mass production, every design element was meticulously crafted to align with the spatial composition of the gallery. A Corten steel feature wall became a defining addition, merging the brand identity of TARQ with the building’s historic fabric. The textured, rusted patina of Corten steel not only complements the original steel framework but also introduces a bold, contemporary contrast.

Heritage Conservation with Modern Enhancements

Preserving the heritage values of the building was paramount. The original wooden windows on the north facade were carefully restored by skilled carpenters. On the west facade, where original frames were absent, new central axial-hinged window shutters were introduced to enhance visibility while maintaining historical integrity.

Rather than concealing structural elements behind false ceilings, the steel beams were left exposed, reinforcing the gallery's dialogue between the past and present. This approach underscores the coexistence of different architectural eras, materials, and systems, preserving the essence of the original structure while accommodating modern functionality.

A Contemporary Art Space Rooted in History

Through the integration of natural light, sustainable materials, and bespoke craftsmanship, SquareWorks has successfully redefined a historic space into a dynamic contemporary art gallery. The juxtaposition of Corten steel, restored brick masonry, and exposed steel structures encapsulates the essence of heritage conservation and modern design. This transformation is a testament to Mumbai’s evolving architectural landscape, where history and modernity coexist in perfect harmony.

All Photographs are works of Studio Charuau