Fact File
Location: New Delhi
Size: 350 sq m
Principal Architect: Akshat Bhatt
Photographs courtesy: Architecture Discipline
These luxury suites at The Oberoi, New Delhi, by Architecture Discipline, are a testament to the legacy of the iconic hotel, featuring contemporary sensibilities that have been meticulously tailored to complement the heritage structure. Reflecting the evolution of Indo-Saracenic and Georgian design and inspired by the architecture of Delhi, the design of the Victorian Suites was carried out as an exercise in restraint. The extraordinary, lavish style is mirrored albeit subtly and comfortably, ensuring that the space is both ergonomic and timeless. At the entrance, one is greeted by a gold leaf screen that provides a captivating backdrop for the study. The expansive living area is adorned with exquisite, embroidered fabric panels; Lutyens’ style armchairs; an intricately designed coffee table; and a writing desk in oak with ebony inlay.
The bedroom, cornered by two large picture windows, has a king-size bed—a take on Baker. Natural teak and heavy brass elements have been used to tie the space together. Inspired by the Victorian era, the bespoke furniture upholstered in luxurious fabrics, hand-knotted silk carpets, handcrafted lights, the geometrical cornices on the ceiling, and the motifs are further accented by tasteful artwork, lending a classical charm to the ambience of the suite. Several elements, such as aged bronze, brass, leather, teak, and oak, have been used to lend a warm yet luxurious feeling to the suite. Lighting has taken crucial precedence to create a well-lit space exuding the right energy. The lighting fixtures are inspired by Sir Lutyens’ style of architecture and designed in collaboration with AKFD Studio exclusively for the project.
A design movement characterised by rich colours, bold geometry, and ornate detail work, Art Deco echoes glamour, opulence, and order with symmetrical designs in buoyant shapes. A befitting theme for the suites, the outcome of the process is an elegant and edgy design, although not as pronounced. The spacious living area is adorned with rich leather panels, luxurious armchairs, a modish brass coffee table, and an oak writing desk with brass accents. Two large picture windows in the bedroom open out to a private balcony complete with seating. The custom-made furniture is crafted in brass and accentuated with luxe velvets. The chic lighting fixtures, cornices and embellishments, geometrical patterns, and bright colours blend effortlessly with the rest of the space. The artwork in the suites, inspired by the works of Art Deco artists such as George Barbier and Tamara De Lempicka, transports one back to the boldly glamorous era.
The outcome of the entire process is the artisanal quality achieved while ensuring that the suites complement the Lutyens-esque architecture of the rest of the hotel. The exclusive art pieces in the suites belong to the owner, Mr PRS Oberoi’s private collection, and are curated to lend a personal and engaging touch. A large picture window allows for the ingress of natural daylight while offering magnificent views of Humayun’s Tomb or the Delhi Golf Course at different ends. Each suite embodies a blend of aesthetics and ergonomics with immense attention to detail. The studio’s underlying philosophy for an interior project, Balance, is personified in these timeless, congenial spaces. The Oberoi, New Delhi, is testimony that an icon can become a classic without losing sight of its glorious past.
