Guests Dine in an Urban Sanctuary at OASES in New York City

OASES in New York City’s Chelsea neighborhood combines a restaurant and retreat in one, within a tranquil setting that ignites the five senses. Comprising several distinct spaces, the style of the interior is rooted in the Ayurvedic principles of balance and harmony. Designed by entrepreneur and founder Sonam Sangmo, in partnership with RANSD and Studio Rolling, the 4,755-square-foot space – on the ground floor of a luxury residential building – is a welcome place of respite.

Key elements were influenced by Sangmo’s upbringing in India, where hospitality was a part of everyday life. “My mother taught me how to be a good host,” she says. “I wanted to create a space that was as intimate as a home, and where people would feel welcome.”

Soft curves and a serene color palette are paired with lush foliage throughout to create a meditative experience, rather than distracting patterns or too-bold hues dominating the interior. Plaster walls add just enough texture, and the green tones of the foliage complement rich wood pieces.

Guests can choose from in-house dining or grab-and-go options. Situated in OASES’ vegetable garden, the all-day café provides nutritious options like superfood acai bowls and organic smoothies to give busy urbanites an extra boost of energy. The restaurant and bar offers a more elevated setting for dinner and drinks. New American fare with a Himalayan twist is on the menu, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients. Chef Georgie Castillo’s dishes are made with non-GMO oils, natural sugars, and seasonal produce from local farmers.

At the bar, patrons sip on a range of beverages from natural wines to cocktails and non-alcoholic mocktails. Even the libations boast a blend of flavors and spices, and include dashes of turmeric, saffron oil, matcha. Drinks are on display at a glowing martini wall, in aura-like tones that soothe.

Sangmo, a fashion industry veteran with stints at Ralph Lauren and Michael Kors on her resume, also applied her sartorial knowledge to other facets. She designed the staff uniforms, which were produced in Nepal.

Adjacent to the café, customers browse and shop at a bazaar, which has an array of eco-conscious products. Skincare, housewares, and beauty products are just a few of the goods sourced by Sangmo, who traveled around the globe to find unique items to support healthy living and nourish mind, body and spirit. “Everything was done with honesty and it’s an extension of myself,” Sangmo adds. “It’s not just about the cuisine or the overall design, but the atmosphere, where everyone feels at ease.”

For more information, visit ransd.com and studiorolling.com.

Photography by Zeph Colombatto.