Located in the cultural center of Punjab, Ramada Encore, Amritsar, embodies the harmonious fusion of global hospitality norms with the enriching cultural experience of its surroundings. Conceptualized as a contemporary, lively, and inviting hotel, the project redefines modern hospitality through a perspective that is global yet strongly contextual.
Project Name: Ramada Encore
Studio Name: Studiob Architects
Location: Amritsar, Punjab
Completion Date: July 2023
Area: 2,200 sq. ft.
Design Team: Ar. Anil Badan
The interiors reflect the energy of Amritsar, a city famous for its heritage, warmth, and effervescence, but also incorporate the efficiency and glamour that one would anticipate of an international brand. The outcome is a space that appeals to travelers from all corners of the globe and presents a stay experience that is both cosmopolitan and locally rooted.
Design Philosophy and Approach
The philosophy that led to the design of Ramada Encore was to create a space that is balanced between modern minimalism and cultural depth. While clean-lined international styles rule the overall language, subtle undertones, derived from Punjab’s traditions, patterns, and colors, imbue the space with personality and warmth. Amritsar’s spirited and soulful character finds its way into the interiors through strategically selected materials, details, and accents. Such a reflective strategy makes the hotel not only a mere passing point for travelers but a stimulating destination reflecting the city’s character and responding to the requirements of a modern international visitor.
Material Palette and Aesthetic Elements
The hotel’s aesthetic is characterized by a modern neutral palette overlaid with tactile textures and bold accents. Calming greys, warm beiges, and off-whites form the soothing background, while deep indigos, mustard, and metallic finishes add an element of energy and vitality that echoes Amritsar’s celebratory ethos. The incorporation of polished wood, brushed brass, terrazzo flooring, and upholstered panels adds depth and sophistication to the interiors. Furniture and wall treatments that were specifically designed add interpretation to classical jali patterns in the form of geometric motifs, carefully balancing cultural respect with refined modernity. The materiality and palette combined create a sense of classic elegance, enabling guests to feel comfortable as well as inspired by their environment.
Lighting Design
Lighting has a defining impact on the mood and functionality of Ramada Encore. Layered lighting schemes in public spaces like the lobby and restaurant utilize recessed fixtures in association with dramatic statement pendants to produce a dynamic as well as welcoming environment. Guest rooms feature warm, ambient lighting to create a sense of comfort and relaxation, providing a rejuvenating experience for guests. Ornamental lighting pieces serve also as sculptural components, adding to the visual identity of the interiors without sacrificing usability. This thoughtful balance of light and shadow supports the hotel’s modern style while preserving the feeling of warmth inherent in Punjabi hospitality.
Spatial Layout and Functionality
The floor plan is well thought out to deliver both efficiency and guest comfort. The reception and lobby space are a friendly gathering place, characterized by dramatic artwork and piece-of-furniture statements that create a powerful sense of arrival. Guest rooms are spartan but sophisticated, with floor plans that deliver ergonomics-driven layouts, built-in storage, and a tidy environment. The bar and restaurant adopt an open-plan with flexible seating that caters to single travelers, couples, and groups. The live center kitchen and bar counter serve as areas of focus, providing dynamism and a dash of interactivity to the dining experience. Besides this, the hotel also features adjustable meeting and event facilities with up-to-date amenities, thereby providing functionality for corporate events and social occasions.
Essence of the Project
Ramada Encore, Amritsar, is an international retreat located in the midst of the bustling life of one of India’s oldest cities. By its careful design, the hotel develops an atmosphere that is akin to a second home in its welcoming, efficient, and culturally sensitive nature. Ar. Anil Badan and Ar. Vikram Singh has been able to interpret the essence of Amritsar as a modern hospitality experience that also happens to feel universal and indigenous. The project honors efficiency, warmth, and cultural relevance, so that each guest experience, whether in a guestroom, the lobby, or the restaurant, is a lasting piece of their journey.
