At first glance, the building seemed beyond saving—peeling paint, structural vulnerabilities, outdated services, and a facade in dire need of reinvention. Along with a tight budget and a responsibility to preserve its heritage, Khanna faced what he calls “a perfect storm of architectural challenges.” But where most saw obstacles, Khanna saw potential. His vision was to transform the decaying structure into a thriving mixeduse destination with banquet halls, upscale restaurants, exhibition spaces, premium accommodations, and sky lounges—while retaining its historic essence.
The project's complexity emerged through multiple challenges: compromised structural integrity, restrictive internal heights, outdated MEP services, and the delicate balance of modernizing the elevation while respecting its historical character. These constraints, coupled with budget considerations, required an approach that valued both innovation and preservation.
Khanna's vision was “To give it a bygone era charm.” He transformed the space into a multi-faceted destination that houses opulent banquet halls, sophisticated restaurants, a versatile exhibition space, diverse accommodation options, and striking sky lounges. The architectural vocabulary draws heavily from India's rich metalworking tradition, particularly the ornate metalwork that characterized the British colonial period. This design choice wasn't merely aesthetic – it represented a bridge between eras.
To view the entire article Click Here
