Stunning Display of Aesthetics
The Jaipur House, a symbol of royal luxury, stands proudly atop the Aravallis in Mount Abu, a city in India. Although the exact identity of the Pink City, where the Jaipur House is located, remains undisclosed, it is known to be a place that sparks conversations among those who may not align with this model of luxury.
Originally a 19th-century palace, the Jaipur House was converted into a heritage hotel in the 1990s. The renovation project was overseen by Padmanabh Singh, the great-grandson of Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II, who ruled Jaipur during colonial India. Ram Singh II was a progressive ruler who modernized his realm significantly, building schools, hospitals, theaters, and the Albert Hall Museum, among other structures. He also introduced electricity, modern sanitation systems, and rail links to Jaipur, and promoted the study of science and Sanskrit.
Ram Singh II was particularly interested in photography and established a fully equipped photographic department within the City Palace, where he could produce his own photographs. This interest allowed him to capture life within his court, including the private lives of women in the zenana, a rare perspective for the time.
The renovation of the Jaipur House was designed to reflect its surroundings and traditions. Dutch designer Marie-Anne Oudejans, known for her vibrant and patterned interiors, was entrusted with the project. She aimed to give the palace a hill station feel, combined with old-school English charm, while maintaining its historical essence. Oudejans' style often incorporates candy-colored interiors and patterns, blending traditional and modern elements to create a unique aesthetic.
The Jaipur House offers picturesque vistas overlooking Nakki Lake, and the Chattris tower over the hilly terrain surrounding the property. Despite being a heritage hotel, the Jaipur House still holds secrets that are yet to be uncovered, making it a topic of interest, even for those who may not be familiar with the royal model of luxury.
[1] For more information on Ram Singh II and his interest in photography, please refer to this source.
[2] For more information on Marie-Anne Oudejans and her design philosophy, please refer to this source.
The renovation of the Jaipur House was a testament to its historical roots, blending traditional elements with a touch of Marie-Anne Oudejans' vibrant and patterned interiors, creating a unique aesthetic that echoes the old-school English charm of a hill station. With its picturesque vistas over Nakki Lake and the enigmatic charm of the Chattris, the Jaipur House offers more than just a royal lifestyle; it is a home-and-garden sanctuary for travelers seeking a blend of luxury and tradition.
