PERMIT ROOM, the Bombay-inspired concept from the acclaimed Indian restaurant brand Dishoom, has launched its first ever lodgings as part of its new Portobello Road location, following a transformation by interior architecture and design studio, Macaulay Sinclair.
Occupying the historic Colville Hotel originally opened in the mid-1860s, the Victorian corner pub has been reimagined to house a vibrant all-day bar cafe on the ground floor, an inviting first-floor dining room, and unique second-floor guest lodgings.
Macaulay Sinclair’s concept for Permit Room blends the ambiance of Bombay’s historic, permit-only bars and the no-frills, affordable drinks of its modern quarter bars. A fusion of Indian character and British pub hospitality creates a warm, welcoming, neighbourhood feel.
For the brand’s Portobello Road location, this concept has been seamlessly blended with the building’s rich Victorian heritage, offering 70 internal covers and two double bedrooms in the heart of Notting Hill.
Leading the project has been Laura Newstead, associate director at Macaulay Sinclair, who described the journey to delivering Permit Room’s first venture into overnight guest experiences.
She said: “As our fourth project with Permit Room, it has been hugely exciting to work on this new offering from the brand in a historically inspiring space. Our aim for the lodgings was to transcend the typical hotel experience, to create the feeling of staying in the apartment of a well-travelled protagonist, brimming with personality.
“One of our main inspirations was Bombay’s Kekee Manzil – the residence of a family pivotal in founding the country’s modern art movement. With such a fascinating history, we wanted to pay homage to this through the artwork arrangement and direction.”
The lodgings consist of a two-bed apartment, complete with ensuite rooms and a lounge with a dining area. Influences have been taken from the elegant designs of celebrated Bombay hotels, such as the bespoke beds reminiscent of the Bentleys Hotel aesthetic, along with the panelling and vibrant hues of the sophisticated Sea Green Hotel.
Throughout the space, more than 30 original art pieces have been used, by established and emerging South Asian artists, further enriching the character and authentic atmosphere.
The ground floor of the building will house Permit Room’s all-day bar cafe designed to have an independent feel with a strong emphasis on music, featuring DJ sessions and a classic juke box. Comfortable and cosy pockets of space have been crafted, fostering a welcoming environment with local collaborations bringing strong links to the community.
Distinctive elements include perforated plywood back bench seating, timber boarded floors, and natural rattan blinds complemented by cooling fans.
Laura added: “Our research references continue throughout the ground floor; the back bar design was inspired by longstanding laundry service Puthu & Sons Washing Co. and the iconic institution that is the Bombay Gymkhana in Fort, while the ceiling moulding echoes the elegant details found in the Royal Bombay Yacht Club. Even the screen at the end of the bar servery mirrors architectural details of The Lakshmi Building, built in 1938.”
Ascending to the first floor, guests will discover a dining room designed with an informal domesticity, creating an inviting and relaxing space that offers a distinct contrast to the lively atmosphere of the Permit Room below. This reinterpretation acknowledges the building’s historical significance as a locally renowned dining destination.
Seating 44 diners, the space will feature a pair of bespoke mid-century modern chandeliers, adding a touch of understated elegance. Parquet flooring layered with rugs will create warmth and texture, while full-height curtains will adorn the large Victorian windows. The room will be further enhanced by the installation of numerous antique pieces, contributing to the room’s unique character and charm.
The new Permit Room location in Portobello is poised to become a distinctive destination, offering a unique blend of Bombay-inspired design within a historic London landmark.
The restaurant and lodgings are located at 186 Portobello Rd, London W11 1LA and opened to the public in May 2025.
