Blending the old, the new, and the quintessentially Indian

While the rest of the country is marveling at cutting-edge, modern architecture, with gargantuan structures springing up everywhere in the form of malls and high-end hotels, some of us appreciate the importance of the incorporation of indigenous elements in our architecture.

Which is exactly what Mancini Enterprises would have thought of while creating the Contemporary Rural Retreat in a place where least expected : Sikkim.

 Tucked away in a quaint tract of land in Sikkim, the Contemporary Rural Retreat is an absolute wonder. Built over 4000 sq. feet, the main structures show a striking example of how to use traditional building techniques while following a modern design aesthetic.

All of the three structures use primarily the two materials which have such a high significance in traditional Sikkimise Architecture : wood and stone. If you've visited or even seen pictures of any monastery in Sikkim, these two elements play a predominant role in the architecture.

The interiors as well have smooth stone floors, giving it a very rustic feel, as well as maintaining a cool temperature throughout. Rich, colored wooden panel ceilings with traditional Indian accents contrast beautifully with the neutral colored walls.

 

 The rooms are built with shutter-style windows which open to the lush, surrounding landscape, while also maintaining that much-needed element of privacy.

In other resorts you might have visited, it wouldn't be a huge task to observe the astonishing waste of space. Be it in the rooms, lobbies or lounges, a huge amount of space is wasted. Whereas in this structure, a minimal amount of space with multiple openings is employed, giving the inhabitant the illusion of staying in one, huge room. 

It is rare as well as marvelous to see how modern architects strive to bring in the Indian influence in every element of design and architecture, hence redefining the concept of luxury. Doing away with all the glitter, bright lights, steel structures and employing local craftsmen using indigenous materials to build the whole retreat, Mancini Enterprises have created an important masterpiece, preserving something which goes missing from almost everything in our country these days : Indian-ness.