In the present day, the world throbs with intriguing contradictions, where individuals incorporate modernity while trying to remain connected to their culture. They want a space with contemporary technologies and latest fit-outs, but wish to spend their afternoons sipping tea while lounging in their backyards listening to old-school music!
Project Name: Classical Grandeur
Studio Name: Rajkumar Architects
Location: Jaipur
Start Date: 10 July 2018
Completion Date: 8 Nov 2023
Built-Up Area (sq ft & sq m): 14000 sq ft
Principal Architect: Ar. Rajkumar Kumawat
Design Team: Rajkumar Architects
Photographer: Capture India – Aayush Ostwal
Such is the case of a family, who imagined a home that blends contemporary design with cultural sensibilities. Situated in the urban area of Jaipur, the clients wanted a house that portrays the city’s traditional heritage as well as incorporates the magnificence of monuments within the city. To make their visions come true, they set out on a journey with Ar.
Rajkumar Kumawat, Founder and Principal Architect at Rajkumar Architects, who is famous for incorporating local culture into their work with a contemporary twist. Maintaining the client’s demand for ‘blend of modernity and culture’, the team came up with a design that was not monotonous and unconventional, yet designed a welcoming and calming space. The team adhered to a concept of maximalism and grandeur, incorporating things that exceeded the basics and provided an element of modernity to the space. The dwelling created by the process became a home and a reflection of the occupant’s individual story, inscribed upon the very walls and design elements that made up their residence.
The building makes a striking statement in its modern facade where pale white walls go up high with definite edges highlighted by well-placed windows. The lack of embellishments means that the dance of light and shadow lends a vibrant play throughout the day. Cantilevered balconies with some luster of greenery, bring about an element of drama taking the facade to a whole new level. Entering the compound, beautiful green sceneries and a sparkling body of water greet one with a healing hug. Additionally, well-placed light such as uplights, recessed, and well lights revamp the exteriors as an ever-changing art.
Upon entering the house, a majestic entrance lobby commandeers the spotlight with a light theme and custom-made sculptures. In addition, the double-height living space with a adjacent dining space presents a combination of style and comfort. Custom sofas draped in rich textures bewitch the luxury feel while the TV unit, created on the center wall is supported by greenery, creating a touch of biophilic feel to the house. Moving towards the dining section, the dining table has a customized look with a glass top, adorned with brass hardware for a touch of elegance. The dining chairs are appointed to match the entire décor with a slender design. Top-quality material such as marble and brass takes over, emitting an opulent ambiance into the room. Here in this well-curated section, the warm glow of the lighting fixture, drawing its inspiration from more classical motifs creates a beautiful additional layer of cultural beauty and blends seamlessly with each and every piece. To the left side of this room, a lush brass shelf of unusual design with double functionality as a partition wall as well as a storage area complements the overall aesthetic.
The family lounges and lobbies of the house are like interactive art galleries, where each nook is a testament to tradition and which reveals the cultural and religious aspect of the residents. A wall with a family collage of frames in black and white tones is a moving memorial to fond memories, where personal history is mixed with ageless design. Over it, a floral and organic-shaped statement fixture adorns the double-height area, rendering a warm and welcoming glow that takes the atmosphere to greater heights of magnificence. Riding further in the upper lobby, a handmade set of chairs with clean-lined designs and off-white-finished fabric invites relaxation and reflection, providing a contemporary relief to the traditional atmosphere. A selection of classic paintings decorates the walls, where every one of them is an ode to heritage and cultural depth. Elsewhere, a dramatic statement is made with a sunny yellow armchair set against a tiny coffee table, adding a splash of personality and warmth to the room.
Transitioning towards the personal sanctums, the bedrooms are created keeping in mind the tastes and inclinations of the clients. One bedroom is covered with mustard and pale yellow and white hues, creating a warm ambiance. Traditional prints and motifs on wall panels and throws honor the city’s culture while symbolizing the earthy nature of the residents. The other bedroom features neutral beiges and pale green fixtures creating a peaceful ambiance. A massive balcony with a seating area accompanies the room, for the residents to enjoy their evening beverages while basking in nature. Soft cove lights and modern pendant lights provide a cozy, intimate atmosphere, injecting depth and drama into the space. The third bedroom is a combination of soft colors and pastel pink, creating a maximalist style along with conventional designs. The bed dominates the attention with its luxurious look, emanating the sense of majesty in the area. A velvet bed back and rose-colored throws with conventional Jaipur designs depict the taste of residents. Deeply red, conventionally woven carpets provide an injection of color to the room as printed floral fabrics provide a gesture towards the local culture.
The team at Rajkumar Architects elevates the often overlooked spaces of the residence, the terrace, into a haven of serenity and calm. Upon stepping into the terrace, one is welcomed with a seating area finished in jute-rope furniture that is the centerpiece, evoking that seaside character and feeling of ease. The seating area is set under a pergola, giving it shade and a whiff of rustic sophistication. Next to it is a small bar, designed for cozy conversations and casual sips so the flow of words comes easily when surrounded by the atmosphere of warmth and friendship. A gleaming metal sculpture of a human face lends an air of art and mystery to the patio, used as an interesting centerpiece among the greenery. Vibrant flowers and lush leaves form a fabric of colour and texture, inviting residents to bathe in the warmth of nature. A waterfall feature enhances the beauty of the terrace, providing a calming melody that complements the atmosphere. When water drips from the hardscape, it creates an atmosphere of relaxation and calm, transforming the terrace into a restful sanctuary.
Within these walls, the home stands out as an exhibition of heritage, sophistication, and individuality. With every piece carefully chosen to blend tradition and contemporaneity, it beckons inhabitants and visitors alike to a journey of discovery and wonder, where each detail speaks and every moment is filled with the magnificence of tradition!
