Inspired by the Vernacular

Project: Taj Rishikesh Resort & Spa, Uttarakhand Architects: Edifice Design Consultants Pvt Ltd, New Delhi

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Amorphology of the traditional Himalayan village, Taj Rishikesh Resort & Spa presents a structure that negotiates and creates a dialogue with the contours. The relationship of the design with the rivers and rivulets flowing through the valleys, the materiality, local construction knowledge and memorable collaborations are all crucial determinants of the architectural concept.

Arjun Mehra (Managing Director at Darrameks Hotels & Developers Pvt Ltd) had emotional ties with the site that, through the design journey of the project, became even more personal. Mehra’s brief was for an architecture that shows respect to the environment and the surroundings, while underlining the brand’s commitment to the superior quality of design and workmanship. The client engaged YH2 Canada to develop the masterplan and propose an architectural concept for the resort. That vision was then translated into reality by Edifice through a deep understanding of the regional building practices and domestic know-how.

The location of the resort at the foothills of the Himalayas and the serendipitous presence of the holy river Ganges marked the advent of its design language. Formerly used for stepped farming, the natural terrain of the site inspired the architects to place the built structures on the flat terraces, thereby allowing the untouched parts of the landscape to remain natural and pristine.