Fostered by a culture of learning and intrapreneurship, Studio Lotus has redefined Indian architecture by seamlessly integrating local materials, cultural narratives, and sustainable practices into their projects. The firm embraces a profoundly contextual approach, combining it with a strong focus on the tactile and sensory qualities of the spaces they craft. In the context of India, where they aim to make innovations scalable and relevant, the practice explores low-tech methodologies rather than high-tech as a method of choice to innovate. They understand the significance of adapting and reusing existing buildings en masse, recognizing the vast amount of underutilized built spaces and the opportunities they present for re-use before embarking on new construction.
PROJECT IN FOCUS – RAAS CHHATRASAGAR
Location: Nimaj, Rajasthan
Typology: Hospitality
Design Concept: Treading lightly on the site, with minimal impact additions.
Material Palette: A blend of local timber and stone, complemented by tensile fabric roofs and boarding partitions. Local crafts are expressed as contemporary interventions.
What we heart: The property’s sensitive ecological approach
RAAS Chhatrasagar by Studio Lotus, the fourth boutique hospitality destination by Walled City Hotels, is a 20-key property located near the historic town of Nimaj, Rajasthan. Nestled alongside an artificial lake formed by a Rajput chieftain’s embankment, the site’s sensitive ecological context necessitated a low-impact design approach. At the heart of the experience is the Baradari, a contemporary expression of the Rajputana twelve-pillared pavilion, constructed using a light-weight metal frame. Private suites nestle between lightweight partitions adorned with hand-painted fabrics, offering uninterrupted views of the forest and lake. Local crafts are expressed as contemporary interventions, echoing the design philosophy of the acclaimed RAAS Jodhpur. The unique selling proposition lies in the property’s sensitive ecological approach, creating an immersive and sustainable hospitality experience that celebrates the region’s architectural heritage.
