CRAFTING JAIPUR'S NEW CULTURAL IDENTITY

The founder of IDEAS, a multidisciplinary architecture firm based in Jaipur, talks timeless design, civic consciousness, and how the city is evolving into a global thought capital. From Sawai Man Mahal and The Sawai Madhopur Lodge - A Taj Property to the Constitution Club of Rajasthan, his work bridges culture and contemporary living with quiet power

- ANKITA RATHOD

In Jaipur, where centuries-old palaces and temples whisper tales of a regal past, architect Gyanendra Singh Shekhawat is crafting a future that honours every detail of that legacy—while speaking a thoroughly modern language. As the founder of IDEAS, a multidisciplinary architecture firm based in Jaipur, Shekhawat has become a key figure in the city’s transformation—from a historic tourist destination into a forward-thinking cultural capital. His portfolio ranges from iconic high-rises and adaptive reuse projects to civic institutions that celebrate regional identity. In this exclusive conversation, Shekhawat opens up about place-making, storytelling, and the philosophies that guide his work.

What was the idea behind IDEAS, and how has it influenced how people engage with Jaipur?

“IDEAS was founded over two decades ago with a vision to transform Jaipur’s skyline while staying true to its heritage. Our aim has always been to strike a balance— between technology and history, form and feeling. In a city where the past is ever-present, we’re creating modern architecture that coexists respectfully. This approach helps people connect more deeply with both the city’s origins and its evolving future.”

What does hospitality mean to you in a culturally rich city like Jaipur?