Perched amidst the majestic Aravalli hills, The Leela Palace, Jaipur is a magnificent celebration of architectural splendor that seamlessly blends the opulence of Rajasthan’s royal heritage with the elegance of modern design. Crafted by the visionary architect Gyanendra Singh Shekhawat, Founder and Principal Architect of IDEAS, this luxury hotel is a testament to the creative genius that has gone into its design – where every corner tells a story of craftsmanship, history, and innovation.

Amazing: The Leela Palace, Jaipur

At first glance, the architectural composition of The Leela Palace is nothing short of breathtaking. The design marries the classical grandeur of Rajasthani palaces with the sleek lines and contemporary sensibilities of modern luxury. The influence of traditional Indian architecture is evident in every detail, from the striking chhatris and jharokhas to the majestic arches and intricately carved jaalis, all of which evoke the splendor of Rajasthan’s royal forts and palaces. These historical elements are not just ornamental; they have been thoughtfully integrated to create a dialogue between the past and present, allowing guests to experience the opulence of Rajasthan’s royal history while enjoying the comfort and style of modern amenities.

Gyanendra Singh Shekhawat’s design philosophy is rooted in creating spaces that are both functional and awe-inspiring. At The Leela Palace, this is manifested in the clever use of courtyard planning, where expansive courtyards filled with lush greenery serve as the heart of the hotel, connecting the various wings of the property. This thoughtful planning creates a sense of openness and tranquility, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings while also encouraging moments of reflection and relaxation.

The interior spaces of the palace echo the same meticulous attention to detail. The rich tradition of Jaipur’s thikri work – glittering glass inlay art – is woven into the fabric of the property, adding a tactile elegance that contrasts beautifully with the clean, contemporary lines of the architecture. Each room, from the grandiose suites to the more intimate chambers, is designed with a delicate balance of regal beauty and modern luxury, offering guests an experience that is both lavish and comforting.

In a bold yet harmonious departure from the often overpowering nature of traditional palace architecture, the latest techniques in sustainable design has been used to craft a space that’s as eco-conscious as it is visually striking. The Leela Palace, Jaipur has employed locally sourced materials, ensuring that the hotel not only sits beautifully within its surroundings but also contributes to the preservation of the region’s natural landscape. The use of sustainable practices and eco-friendly techniques demonstrates Shekhawat’s commitment to creating architecture that is in tune with the environment, as well as with the cultural heritage of Jaipur.

With its fusion of Rajasthani traditional elements and contemporary design principles, The Leela Palace, Jaipur redefines the luxury experience in Jaipur as it serves as a living, breathing example of how architecture can honour the past while embracing the future – an enduring landmark that offers guests not just a stay, but an immersive journey through the art of design. In an exclusive interview with Sumita Chakraborty, Editor-in-chief, TheGlitz, Gyanendra Singh Shekhawat, Founder and Principal Architect, IDEAS, talks about The Leela Palace, Jaipur’s architecture and more…

The Leela Palace, Jaipur: Over to Spokesperson: Gyanendra Singh Shekhawat | Founder and Principal Architect, IDEAS

The Leela Palace, Jaipur, is a stunning blend of modern luxury and traditional Rajasthani heritage. What was the inspiration behind this captivating design concept, and how did you integrate both elements seamlessly?

We drew inspiration from the grandeur of Rajasthan’s royal heritage while embracing modern luxury. We wanted to infuse the old-world charm reminiscent of the royal lifestyle with all the comforts and conveniences to offer guests an authentic slice of history, luxury, and culture, as well as the signature Leela service. The intricate jaalis, chhatris, silver domes, pavilions, and fountains–all characteristic features of Rajputana and Mughal architecture–have been incorporated to reflect this vision.

The intricate latticework and elegant glass mosaics stand out in the palace’s design. Can you share more about the artisans and techniques that were used to bring these traditional elements to life?

The intricate jaalis and thikri (glass inlay) work throughout the property is a testament to traditional Rajasthani craftsmanship. Skilled artisans meticulously created these elements, ensuring each piece adds a layer of artistry and cultural value to the palace. The techniques used have been honed over many generations and require a high level of expertise, which brings an authentic touch of local heritage to the modern hotel setting.

What was the most challenging aspect of merging Rajasthan’s royal heritage with contemporary luxury to create a space that feels both regal and modern?

Amalgamating elements from the royal heritage of Rajasthan with the expectations of contemporary luxury was a challenging aspect. We addressed this by integrating traditional architectural features with modern spatial planning and amenities. Techniques like passive cooling through shaded courtyards and jaali treatments allowed us to retain the heritage aesthetics while ensuring comfort and efficiency for guests in Jaipur’s hot and dry climate.

How does the architecture and design of The Leela Palace cater to the unique needs and preferences of luxury travellers today while staying true to its cultural roots?

The layout of the hotel reinforces this balance that guests expect from a Leela property. The central palace block, flanked by luxury villas and expansive outdoor spaces, combines private and communal spaces. The grand communal pool, surrounded by alcoves and private pools, offers a retreat for relaxation, while the villas and courtyards offer an intimate, exclusive experience. The design cleverly balances open space with built structures, a nod to Jaipur’s historic walled city and its ability to simultaneously foster a sense of community and privacy.

Situated against the serene Aravalli hills, the hotel offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle, embracing the opulence of Jaipur’s royal past and the comforts expected by today’s discerning guests.

The private pools and spacious courtyards add a distinctive touch to the property. How do you envision guests interacting with these spaces, and what experience do you aim to offer them?

The private pools and spacious courtyards offer guests a serene, secluded retreat within the palace grounds. These areas are designed as a quiet escape amidst the resort’s luxury and can be utilised for relaxation and rejuvenation. The courtyards, with their lush greenery and water features, provide a tranquil atmosphere, allowing guests to connect with nature and experience the essence of Rajasthani hospitality.

What does The Leela Palace represent in terms of the evolution of luxury hotels in India, and what sets it apart from other destinations in the region?

I believe the project’s ability to blend royal charm with modern luxury seamlessly makes The Leela Palace a truly unique destination. We were able to infuse a sense of local identity with world-class luxury standards, creating an environment that enables guests to engage with the heritage of Jaipur in a way that is both experiential and luxurious. This makes the stay and experience truly unforgettable.