“Pipalbot has many layers of meaning,” tells Diki Ongmo, one of the partners in the venture and adds, “Every town and village in Nepal has a Pipalbot -- it’s a place where people converge to relax, talk and exchange ideas and information; it’s the centre of social life and shared experiences.”
Diki not only has one but several of such interpretations, on the significance of Pipalbot in our society. However, Diki’s Pipalbot is an admirable sanctuary of different eclectic pieces of design.
As one steps into the store, Tord Boontje’s midsummer lamp tempts one to circle around it and admire the intricately cut paper shade. Near the colorful lamps a fine amalgamation of silver and bamboo cutleries graces a small table.
“These are the designs of British designer Wendy Marston, which were created with the help of the Dalit community,” informs Pema Khando Terab, the fashion designer at the store. “Most of our products are custom-made and are manufactured in Nepal,” she shares.
In addition to other international designs, creations from the Pipalbot collective -- Diki Ongmo and Tim Linkins based in Kathmandu; Shane Powers in New York and Timothy Hill in Australia –- take the nooks and corner of the store. Cashmere comfort clothing by Diki, who has 15 years of experience in the particular field, and Pema’s fall collection occupy the far left corner.
“The essential components of our aesthetics are simplicity, clarity and functionality,” says Diki. Minimalistic ceramics, cane sofa, wood and marble tables elucidate her statement. Pink colored legs give a stylish edge to the simple rectangular wheat-brown table.
Exclusive Tibetan carpets—from polka dotted and stripped to playful fusion of multiple colors—are spread on the floor of the white-walled store. “These carpets are woven in 100-knots, which make them more flexible, finer and lighter,” says Pema.
Similar to rocking chairs, on display at the store are rocking beds, cushions made from Tibetan wool and brassware by Goetz Hagmuller. Tibetan silk tapestries embellish one of the walls of the store, which also serves as venue for different events such as art receptions and exhibitions.
“Pipalbot is very multi-faceted venture because it is an interiors and clothing store, restaurant, event spot as well as a gallery,” puts Diki and continues, “We’ve tried to create a space that appeals to many different circles within the society here from Nepalis to long-term expats.”
Interior architecture consultation is also one of Pipalbot’s services. “We feel that it’s important to contribute new ideas to design,” says Diki.
All in all, Pipalbot is a traveling mini world of designers who have embraced all the qualities of the traditional Nepali Pipalbot—social, spiritual and sustainability.
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