Heritage Reimagined: The Banaras Haveli Restoration
A restoration that honors the cultural soul of Banaras, blending traditional Chunar sandstone craftsmanship with modern living spaces.
The rendered exterior of the Banaras haveli showcases the fusion of traditional Rajasthani and Mughal architectural elements. Note the ornate jharokha balcony, sandstone arches, and detailed cornices, all meticulously designed to restore the building's historic grandeur.
The formal living room in the haveli combines regal proportions with comfortable, modern furnishings. The design features a geometric patterned floor, a wood-beamed ceiling, and traditional Indian art, creating a space that is both grand and inviting.
This grand dining space is designed for large family gatherings, featuring a long wooden table and classic upholstered chairs. A modern brass jali screen and a statement chandelier add layers of texture and light, blending contemporary luxury with heritage design.
A serene bedroom suite within the haveli, featuring a classic four-poster bed and a mix of traditional textiles. The space is designed to be a peaceful retreat, with large windows, a high-beamed ceiling, and curated art that reflects Indian heritage.
The bathroom design combines classic luxury with modern amenities. It features an arched vanity mirror, traditional lantern-style lighting, and a subtle, textured wallpaper, creating a spa-like atmosphere that is consistent with the haveli's elegant aesthetic.
The haveli's kitchen is designed for both function and beauty, with two large islands providing ample workspace. Wooden cabinetry and a beamed ceiling maintain the home's earthy, traditional feel, while modern appliances ensure contemporary convenience.
A dedicated puja space is framed by traditional carved stone pillars. The serene niche features soft, integrated lighting that highlights the Ganesha idol, creating a tranquil and spiritual corner within the home.
About this collection
In this project, we moved beyond just restoring a structure; we integrated modern systems like MEP coordination and automated climate control behind traditional lime plaster walls. The result is a home that feels antique but functions with the efficiency of a contemporary residence, allowing you to live in history without sacrificing comfort.
Restoring a traditional Banaras haveli requires more than technical skill; it demands a deep respect for the building's lineage. When we approached this project, our primary goal was to preserve the inherent grandeur of the architecture while ensuring it met the functional needs of a modern family.
The Fusion of Craft and Comfort
We prioritized locally sourced materials to maintain authenticity. The facade features hand-carved Chunar sandstone, a technique we revived by working directly with local artisans. Inside, we utilized traditional lime plaster for the walls, which breathes naturally and regulates temperature, unlike modern synthetic paints.
Modernity Within Tradition
While the exterior respects the haveli’s regal history, the interiors are designed for contemporary life. We integrated hidden HVAC systems, automated lighting, and modern kitchen functionality into the design, ensuring they remain invisible behind the heritage aesthetic. Whether it is the brass jali screens filtering light into the dining area or the custom-designed four-poster bed in the master suite, every element balances the old-world charm of Kashi with the demands of luxury living.
A Collaborative Restoration
Architecture is a conversation between the past and the present. By choosing to restore rather than rebuild, we saved the building’s structural integrity while creating a sustainable, timeless residence. If you are looking to revitalize a heritage property, we bring the same rigor, site-specific analysis, and artisan collaboration to every project we undertake.
White Studio Architects
We are Kunal and Gitanjali, the architects behind White Studio. We do not believe in trends; we believe in spaces that feel like they have a soul, deeply rooted in the stories of the places they inhabit.
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