Excerpt: Raigarh Guest House by SpaceMatters revitalizes VIP accommodations and social spaces through a regionally rooted interior retrofit. The design blends minimalist modernity with rustic warmth, introduces shaded transitional corridors for comfort and privacy, and celebrates local craftsmanship. Inspired by Chhattisgarh’s landscape, art, and materials, the project enhances function while honoring cultural context.
Project Description
[Text as submitted by architect] The recently completed retrofitting & interior design project at Jindal Steel & Power Ltd.’s verdant township in Raigarh breathes new life into the VIP accommodations and social areas. [Architecture by Revathi Kamath, Kamath & Associates] The project encompassed a comprehensive transformation of the “400 Series” VIP guesthouse, the lively “7 Cheers” bar, and the elegant “Garden of Eden” dining area.
Within the VIP suites, the design strikes a harmonious balance between minimalist modernity and rustic warmth. A major highlight of the project is its celebration of regional craftsmanship, aligning with the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) objectives. The guesthouse rooms, arranged along a west-facing arc-shaped corridor that previously bore the brunt of harsh afternoon sunlight, now benefit from a well-conceived buffer zone. A shaded pathway running parallel to the rooms separates public circulation from private access, offering both visual privacy and a transitional space. This thoughtful addition creates a tranquil, shaded corridor that also serves as a spill-out area—perfect for enjoying a drink or reading in peace.
The “7 Cheers” bar draws inspiration from the surrounding greenery and broader Chhattisgarh landscape. A champagne-tinted mirror visually expands the space and casts a subtle, ambient glow, evoking the mood of twilight. Meanwhile, the “Garden of Eden” VIP dining space is designed to offer a refined, intimate experience. Its focal feature wall is an abstract interpretation of Chhattisgarh’s terrain, blending deep green and metallic copper tones to reflect its lush forests and mineral-rich red soil.
This revitalization project not only enhances spatial functionality and comfort but also pays tribute to the region’s vibrant cultural and artistic heritage. Each suite features traditional soil oxide paintings on canvas— an art form practiced in rural Odisha and by tribal communities in Chhattisgarh. These artworks not only add a rich visual layer but also serve as feature walls, inspired by the flora and fauna of the region. Gheecha silk upholstery and east facing bay windows further enhance the earthy, welcoming ambiance, while Dokhra metalwork is used for bespoke room signage, adding a distinctive cultural touch.
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