In the bustling heart of New York City’s Chelsea neighborhood, OASES emerges as a sanctuary that transcends the conventional dining experience. Marrying a restaurant with a retreat, this calming oasis enhances the five senses within its verdant embrace. Visionary entrepreneur Sonam Sangmo, in collaboration with RANSD and Studio Rolling, spearheaded the design of this 4,755-square-foot haven. Their creation echoes the Ayurvedic ideals of balance and harmony, enveloping guests in a gentle ambiance that recalls the warmth of an inviting home.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Designer: Sonam Sangmo
Location: Chelsea, New York City
Collaborators: RANSD and Studio Rolling
Chef: Georgie Castillo
Concept: Ayurvedic-Inspired Design
OASES unfolds as a narrative of serene elegance, where soft curvatures and a tranquil color scheme dominate the interior canvas. The design shuns overwhelming patterns or vivid hues, opting instead for a meditative expanse that fosters relaxation. Delicate plaster walls contribute a subtle texture, and verdant foliage artfully complements rich wooden furnishings, crafting an environment where nature interplays with architecture. This harmonious blend traces back to Sangmo’s roots in India, where hospitality was instilled in daily life, and each visitor was treated with familial regard.
The culinary offerings at OASES mirror its emphasis on holistic well-being. The establishment provides diners with versatile options, from leisurely in-house meals to convenient grab-and-go choices. The café, nestled amidst a thriving vegetable garden, presents a menu that champions health, featuring superfood acai bowls and organic smoothies specially designed to invigorate the spirit of fast-paced urban denizens. By contrast, the restaurant and bar promise a more refined dining experience, serving New American cuisine infused with Himalayan influences. Chef Georgie Castillo’s creations prioritize freshness, utilizing non-GMO oils, natural sugars, and seasonal produce sourced from local farms.
Drinks at OASES further enhance the venue’s sensory appeal. The bar’s offerings include an eclectic selection of beverages, from natural wines to innovative cocktails and mocktails. Each drink is crafted with a distinctive blend of flavors and spices—turmeric, saffron oil, and matcha are among the star ingredients. These libations are visually displayed on a glowing martini wall, casting aura-like hues that contribute to the soothing atmosphere and align with the venue’s therapeutic ethos.
A touch of Sangmo’s fashion expertise is subtly woven into OASES, defining both the aesthetic and functional facets of the space. Drawing on her background in the fashion industry, with experience at esteemed designers like Ralph Lauren and Michael Kors, she personally designed the staff uniforms, which were crafted in Nepal, adding another layer of cultural narrative and sophistication. Additionally, adjacent to the café, the bazaar offers a curated selection of eco-conscious products. Sourced globally by Sangmo, these items—including skincare, housewares, and beauty products—reflect a commitment to sustainable living, and invite visitors to embrace a lifestyle that nurtures mind, body, and spirit.
Ultimately, OASES is a reflection of Sangmo’s personal philosophy and her dedication to creating more than just a venue—it is an authentic extension of herself rooted in honesty and holistic well-being. The space cultivates an atmosphere where guests feel effortlessly at ease, underscoring Sangmo’s ambition to craft a holistic experience. For those seeking refuge from city life, OASES offers not merely sustenance or visual delight, but an immersive escape to recharge the soul.
