Today, the world pulsates with fascinating paradoxes, where people embrace modernity yet aim to stay true to their cultural roots. They desire a space with modern technologies and state-of-the-art fixtures, but want to enjoy their evenings with a cup of tea while sitting in their backyards with old-school music! Such is the story of a family, who dreamt of a home that fuses contemporary design with cultural aesthetics. Located in the urban locality of Jaipur, the clients desired a home that depicts the traditional heritage of the city while also embracing the grandeur of monuments in the city.
Maximalist modernity
To turn their dreams into a reality, they embarked on a journey with Rajkumar Kumawat, Founder and Principal Architect at Rajkumar Architects, renowned for infusing local culture into their designs with a modern twist. Keeping in mind the client’s requirements for a ‘fusion of modernity and culture’, the team thought of a design that was not repetitive and unconventional, while still crafting an inviting and soothing space. The team stuck to an idea of maximalism and grandeur, combining elements that went beyond mere basics and added a dash of modernity to the space. The resulting dwelling became a living space and an embodiment of the occupant’s unique narrative, etched into the very walls and design elements that comprised their home.
The residence creates a bold statement through its contemporary facade where crisp white walls rise tall with sharp edges emphasised by strategically placed windows. The absence of ornamentation allows the interplay of light and shadow, creating a dynamic interplay throughout the day. Cantilevered balconies with a touch of greenery, add a sense of drama elevating the facade to new heights. Stepping inside the premises, lush green landscapes and a gleaming water body welcome one with a soothing embrace. Moreover, strategically placed lighting like uplights, recessed and well lights, transform the exteriors like an ever-changing sculpture.
Immersive settings
As one steps inside the residence, a grand entrance lobby grabs the limelight with a neutral theme and bespoke sculptures. Further, the double-height living area with an adjoining dining area showcases a fusion of comfort and style. Bespoke sofas upholstered with opulent fabrics enchant the essence of luxury while the TV unit, designed on the central wall is backed with greenery, adding a sense of biophilic touch to the home. Transitioning towards the dining area, the dining table emanates a bespoke design with a glass top, embellished with brass accents for a more sophisticated look. The dining chairs are designed to complement the overall furnishings with a sleek design. Premium materials like marble and brass take over, imbuing a luxurious aura to the space. In this thoughtfully curated area, the soft glow of the lighting fixture, inspired by traditional motifs adds an extra layer of cultural flair and effortlessly coalesces with every element. Towards the left of this space, an abundant brass shelf with a unique design serves the dual purpose of a partition wall and a storage unit, complementing the overall design.
The lobbies and family lounges of the residence are akin to immersive art galleries, where every corner tells a story of tradition and showcases the cultural and spiritual side of the occupants. A wall adorned with a collage of family frames in monochrome tones stands as a poignant tribute to cherished memories, blending personal narrative with timeless design. Above it, a statement fixture featuring flowers and organic shapes graces the double-height space, casting a warm, inviting glow that elevates the ambience to new heights of splendour. Moving further in the upper lobby, a handcrafted pair of chairs with sleek designs and neutral-hued fabric beckons relaxation and contemplation, offering a modern contrast to the classic ambience. A curated collection of traditional paintings adorns the walls, where each piece is a nod to heritage and cultural richness. In another corner, a bold statement emerges with a bright yellow armchair paired with a small coffee table, injecting a burst of vibrancy and character into the space.
Moving towards the private abodes, the bedrooms are designed considering the preferences and tastes of the clients. One bedroom is draped in mustard and pale tones of yellow and white, curating an inviting atmosphere. Wall panels and throws with traditional motifs and prints pay homage to the culture of the city, while reflecting the down-to-earth personalities of the inhabitants.
The second bedroom is adorned with neutral beiges and pale green furnishings offering a tranquil ambience. A huge balcony with a seating space complements the room, for the occupants to enjoy their evening sips whilst enjoying nature. Warm cove lights and sleek pendant lights create a warm, intimate aura, adding depth and drama to the space.
The third bedroom is a blend of muted hues and pastel pink, evoking a maximalist approach along with traditional designs. The bed commands attention with its sumptuous design, exuding the idea of grandeur within the space. A fabric bed back and throws with pink hues and traditional Jaipur patterns showcase the style of occupants. Traditionally woven carpets in red hues add a pop of vibrancy to the room while floral printed textiles offer a tribute to the culture of the region.
A tranquil retreat
The team at Rajkumar Architects elevates the often overlooked spaces of the residence, the terrace, into a haven of serenity and calm. As one enters the terrace, they are greeted with a seating area done with jute-roped furniture that serves as the focal point, invoking a sense of coastal charm and relaxation. The seating arrangement is nestled beneath a pergola, providing shade and a touch of rustic elegance. Adjacent to this lies a small bar, crafted for intimate discussions and leisurely sips allowing conversations to flow effortlessly while being enveloped by the ambience of camaraderie and warmth. A striking metal sculpture, resembling the human face, adds a touch of artistry and intrigue to the terrace, serving as a captivating centerpiece amidst the lush surroundings. Verdant foliage and vibrant blooms create a tapestry of colour and texture, inviting occupants to immerse themselves in the embrace of nature. A cascading water feature adds to the allure of the terrace, creating a soothing soundtrack that harmonises with the ambience. As water trickles down the hardscape, it instills a sense of relaxation and repose, altering the terrace into a sanctuary for relaxation and reflection.
Within these walls, the residence emerges as a showcase of heritage, elegance, and personal expression. With each element carefully selected to fuse tradition with modernity, it invites residents and guests alike to embark on a journey of discovery and delight, where every detail tells a story and every moment is infused with the beauty of tradition!
Fact file:
Name of the project: Classical Grandeur
Location: Jaipur, Rajasthan
Area: 14,000 sq ft
Type: Residential Interior Design
Design firm: Rajkumar Architects
Lead designer: Ar. Rajkumar Kumawat
Photography: Aayush Ostwal
