Contemporary Heritage: The Ritz Carlton, New Delhi
We reinterpreted traditional Indian architectural elements like jaalis and jharokhas to create a modern facade that balances cultural heritage with contemporary luxury.
The entrance of The Ritz Carlton in New Delhi showcases our approach to contextual design. Intricate 'jaali' screens, traditionally used for ventilation and privacy, are reimagined as a key feature of the modern facade, creating a dramatic and culturally resonant first impression.
About Contemporary Heritage: The Ritz Carlton, New Delhi
The facade design centers on the reinterpretation of jaali screens and jharokhas. We did not simply replicate historical forms, we analyzed their original purpose of ventilation and privacy, and adapted them for a modern high-rise structure. This ensures the building feels rooted in its location while meeting the functional requirements of a five-star property.
A Dialogue Between History and Modernity
For luxury hospitality, context is paramount. A site in New Delhi demands a recognition of its deep historical layers, but a five-star hotel also requires the efficiency of modern engineering. Our approach at The Ritz Carlton was to bridge this gap.
The Design Process
Designing this facade was a conversation between solar performance and cultural memory. We debated the scale of the jaalis to ensure they provided effective shading without compromising natural light in the guest rooms. We looked at the traditional jharokha, not as a decorative relic, but as a structural device that offers depth and rhythm to a building elevation.
Why it Matters
By integrating these elements into a contemporary frame, we created a visual rhythm that breaks down the mass of the building. It offers guests an immediate connection to local craftsmanship the moment they arrive, setting the tone for their entire stay. This project demonstrates our core philosophy: that innovation does not have to erase history. Instead, it should be the medium through which history is preserved, recontextualized, and celebrated for the next generation of travelers.
Team3
We are team3, a collective of architects and designers based in Lado Sarai. We do not just design buildings; we create environments that tell a story about where they are and who they are for. We would love to discuss how we can bring that same narrative-driven approach to your property.
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We apply the same design rigor to various building types, from residential homes to large institutional campuses.
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