Remodelled History of “The Spot”

The Colombani house, an 18th-century French architectural structure, is situated in the French-influenced city of India. As the years passed, the building began to deteriorate. In 1987, the Colombani family decided to donate the building to Alliance Française. It then became an iconic centre where French and Indian cultures fused.

In 2004, Maison Colombani on Dumas Street began its structural reshaping. Alliance Française sought a partner to restore the building with an artistic touch. The French embassy extended its support in preserving this piece of French heritage. Alliance Française has been associated with the government of Puducherry for over 100 years. Through this prolonged association, they successfully recreated Maison Colombani.

The restoration plan aimed to showcase authentic French culture to Indian students. The objective was to include a French-style café, an art gallery reflecting French culture, and a multimedia resource centre within the building. Alliance Française achieved their objective, and now, inside the remodelled building, visitors can enjoy a contemporary art gallery, a multimedia centre, cultural events, and Café de Flore, offering French breakfast and lunch. An added gem to the building is the sea-facing cultural centre, which attracts numerous visitors.

Colombani House Morphed into “The SPOT”

In 2018, after years of planning, Alliance Française Puducherry launched a tender to convert Maison Colombani into “The SPOT.” Director Mr. Gerard Greverand initiated the call for tender, which was won by the Villa Shanti – LA VILLA group.

Official Inauguration of “The SPOT”

Mr. Ségiyane Sylvain Paquiry, a Franco-Pondicherian managing director with extensive experience in hospitality services, along with his partners and architects Tina Trigala and Yves Lesprit, began the transformation of Maison Colombani into “The SPOT.”

In 2022, after two years of renovation and navigating the challenges of the Covid crisis, the renovation was completed, and Maison Colombani reopened as “The SPOT.”

Now, “The SPOT” is not only a remnant of French architecture but also a multifunctional space. It is a place where you can enjoy coffee, lunch, dinner, and drinks, listen to musical concerts, showcase contemporary artistic crafts, meet loved ones, or conduct official meetings.

This is not the only space created by Ségiyane Sylvain Paquiry and his partners. They previously opened two more spots in Puducherry: the award-winning Villa Shanti and Travel and Leisure’s World’s Best New Hotel of 2015, LA VILLA.

All of these ventures are running successfully. In recognition of such achievements, the tourism department of Puducherry and French government honoured Mr. Ségiyane Sylvain Paquiry in 2023 for his ongoing success.

Tuck into the Foods of “The SPOT”

Food is an essential part of life, and deliciously prepared dishes attract the senses. “The SPOT” offers an amazing culinary experience for its customers, with several highlights on their menu that entice visitors. Even if you don’t have a reason to visit “The SPOT,” the food will be a satisfying one. The restaurant specializes in European and South Indian cuisine. Additionally, you can find Barbecue night on Thursday and Pizza night during week end. Being in a coastal area, they excel in serving fresh seafood, including fish and prawns. Their barbeque items are mind-blowingly tasty. The secret behind their delicious food is their strict adherence to providing homely meals for customers. The Thursday menu at “The SPOT” is a treat for barbeque lovers. Besides food, they offer both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Whether you’re planning an official party or a success celebration, it won’t be complete without champagne from their wide range of hot and soft drinks. For personal celebrations, “The SPOT” offers a private space that can accommodate up to 50 people. For official meetings, there is a boardroom that can serve up to 14 people.

Encounter Artisan Handcraft Talent by Shopping at “The SPOT”

Shopping often happens spontaneously, and the handcrafted items displayed at “The SPOT” are sure to catch your eye. These items can decorate your home in a grand manner. Not only do they offer decorative items, but you can also purchase high-quality fabric, dress materials, and up cycled items. “The SPOT” prides itself on creativity, turning waste materials into new and amazing products. The artisans’ creativity is mind-blowing, and the items sold here are highly creative and modern. Shopaholics will be mesmerized when they enter “The SPOT.”

Enjoy the Engaging Lifestyle at “The SPOT”

“The SPOT” is a haven for those who value cultural experiences. The cultural events held here provide a blissful experience. Exhibitions showcasing local and international artisans’ works offer a global perspective in one place. The evening music concerts are enthralling, featuring both traditional and electronic music. “The SPOT” also hosts conferences, special guest appearances, and celebrations. There is even a dedicated space for book lovers, where you can take and leave books. The extraordinary collection of books makes it a must-visit for avid readers.

Generating Gift Cards

You can generate e-gift cards for yourself or your friends who wish to visit “The SPOT.” The e-gift card can be for any amount you choose. To generate one, visit their website, provide your basic details, make the payment, and receive the e-gift card. This card can be used at “The SPOT,” “Villa Shanti,” and “La Villa,” offering three different atmospheres in one experience. The common e-gift card is convenient and versatile.

Join Us on Our Working Days @ Our Time

“The SPOT” is open from Monday to Sunday, with Wednesdays off. The restaurant operates from 12 pm to 11 pm, and the shop inside “The SPOT” is open from 12 pm to 9 pm.

Location and Overview of “The SPOT”

Located in the White Town area of Puducherry, at Door No. 37 on Dumas Street, “The SPOT” has two entrances: one via Dumas Street and the other via Goubert Avenue (Rock Beach). It is within walking distance of the Mahatma Gandhi statue on Beach Road, 1.5 km from Puducherry railway station, 6.5 km from Puducherry Airport, and just 2 km from the new bus stand. Both tourists and locals can easily reach the spot as it is close to many famous landmarks in Puducherry. Come and enjoy this enchanting landmark.

——————————————————-

Good To Know

——————————————————-

Spot: 

Maison Colombani belongs to 18^th century. The SPOT, since – 2022.

Distance: 

200m from Mahatma Gandhi Statue, Beach road.

Door opening days & hours:

Thursday to Tuesday,

Restaurant Open from 8 am to 11 pm, (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner).

Shop open, 12pm to 9pm. 

Wednesday closed.

Available Services:

Restaurant, Shop, Cultural & books to read.  

Parking: 

Free parking outside of The SPOT.

Location:

Door Nº 37, Dumas Street & Goubert Avenue, White town, Puducherry, 605001, INDIA.

Reservation Call:

+91 97917 26362.

——————————————————-

Text / Video / Pictures: Doorways Pondicherry.

——————————————————-

Disclaimer: The purpose of this site is to foster a free exchange of ideas and commentary among the tourists & enthusiasts interested in exploring traditions of Puducherry. The information’s are gathered from all available resources. Opinion, and perspectives expressed in this blog are solely by the author(s), and are carved through first-hand experience incorporating imaginary words & also responsible to vividly convey the essence. We sincerely thank the Tourism Department, INTACH, PTDC, LFIP, IFP, AFP, EFEO, business people, and heritage house owners of Puducherry for their cooperation.