Nestled within the quaint village of Kalandri, just 150 km west of Udaipur, Ratanbai Niwas emerges as a palatial haveli that transcends mere architecture- it's a living testament to Rajasthan's enduring charm and rich cultural tapestry.

As onesteps into the haveli's veranda, moments seem to slow down, immersing them in a world of rustic elegance and soulful allure. The air is filled with the scent of the old neem trees near the veranda, and the ambiance of the village square gently permeates the surroundings.

With Mr. Ramesh Kumar Shah of the esteemed RK Group and envisioned by the interior designer Virti Vora of Indetales, the revival of Ratanbai Niwas is a labour of love, born from a deep-seated love for the family and pride in preserving the ancestral legacies. "It's not just about restoring a building; but about infusing life into a piece of history," remarks Mr. Shah.

As one strolls through the haveli's corridors, every corner tells a story of age-old handicrafts, vibrant traditions, and timeless elegance. The walls are adorned with traditional ghutai work, a unique lime plaster technique, with their earthy tones reminiscent of the desert sands that stretch endlessly beyond the horizon. Handcrafted floral motifs and cascading embossed tassels add a touch of artistic finesse, each detail a tribute to the skilled artisans who have preserved these archaic techniques for generations.

Kalandri,Rajasthan,India

Architects : Indetales Interiors
Area : 3400 sq. ft.
Year : 2024
Website : https://www.instagram.com/indetales/

Formal living of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors


Formal living of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors


Formal living of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors


Informal living of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors


Dining of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors


Dining of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors


Kitchen of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors


Central Court of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors

Further exploration leads to a moment where one is halted from within by the seamless fusion of indoor and outdoor living spaces. The open-to-sky courtyard, with its intricate pillar plasterwork and plain paan pattas, serve as a tranquil oasis- a peaceful retreat where the boundaries between nature and architecture converge, creating a unified and serene ambiance.

But it's not just the architecture that captivates the senses; it's the design elements that authentically elevate the beauty of Ratanbai Niwas. Embellished with exquisite fish-scale patterned thikri glass-work on the intrados and chevron patterns embellishing the wall, the space gleams under the enchanting glow of bespoke glass chandeliers, casting kaleidoscopic shadows across the marble floors. Classic sheesham furniture sets a regal tone, complemented by colourful glass windows that filter in the warm desert sunlight. Handcrafted rugs and ceiling frescoes imbue the space with everlasting elegance, while custom-made brass switchboards with brushed finish evoke an essence of the bygone era.


Skylight of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors


Staircase of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors


Staircase of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors


Family Living of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors

The golden-painted staircase railing, graced with captivating glimpses of Kalandri's bustling life, and complemented by a vintage inverted glass chandelier, harmoniously embodies the enduring legacy of the region.

"Ratanbai Niwas stands as a vibrant ode to Rajasthan's symphony of colours, textures, and patterns- a living mosaic of stories waiting to be discovered," conveys Virti, the interior designer behind the revival of the haveli. As one bids farewell to this eternal treasure, Ratanbai Niwas etches its magic into the heart, carrying a piece of its enchantment forever.


Family Living of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors


Seating area of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors


Bedroom of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors


Bedroom of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors


Bedroom 2 of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors


Bedroom 2 of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors


Work Area of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors


Washroom of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors


Washroom of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors


Balcony of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors


Entrance of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors


Exterior view of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors


Exterior view of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors


Detailed shot of pillars of Ratanbai Niwas by Indetales Interiors




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