With vast scale and diversity, India evolved a large variety in architecture, leaving architectural legacies to follow. Of them all, the Chospa Hotel in the Leh region sings praises of Ladakh vernacular architecture. Is there anything better to be welcomed in the most vernacular way and be one among the locals to experience the hospitality in true sense? An astounding voluminous entry, crowned with sky-lit roof becomes the first point of interaction of the visit. Engaging the visitors emotionally and physically, that element briefly introduces a milieu of contemporary hospitality and native luxury. Reflection of earth block walls, narrow windows for thermal comfort, use of timber and woodwork are all reminiscent of Ladakhi architecture and people. ~Yamini Vaswani
Evolving Native Vernacular Architecture and Contemporary Hospitality at Hotel Chospa in Leh | Enso Design
Visit: Enso Design
Ladakh region in northern most part of India is gaining prominence and seeing huge flux of domestic and international travelers. Spectacularly jagged, arid Himalayan mountains enfold this magical place. Gompas (Tibetan Buddhist monasteries) dramatically crown rocky outcrops next to fluttering prayer flags and whitewashed stupas.
The old nondescript guest house located on the busy old Leh road in the busy commercial neighborhood of Leh was demolished to make way for the new 17-key hotel consisting of a café with alfresco seating and a restaurant.
The spatial organization is deliberately insular to mitigate the noise from the abutting busy street yet allowing a convenient flow of passersby to access the alfresco of the café from the upper corner. The atrium lobby aims to lend a casual yet a calming vibe found in most traditional Ladakhi homes. The lobby atrium opens out to the rear with open seating on the south side receiving much needed ample south facing sunlight.
The design draws its influence from the nearby Leh palace constructed in the early 16th century almost seeming to merge in form and color with the continuous mountain ranges enfolding this valley bringing coherence in context to the site.
The hotel is the union of contemporary hospitality with the scenic and material biome of Ladakh. The architecture mirrors the traditional Ladakhi construction and materiality, rendering an ambience familiar to locals and unique for visitors. It houses its guests in the raw patina, texture and density of earth walls fabricated by the resplendent local craftsmanship. These walls, built from earth blocks (compressed stabilized earth blocks) produced in-situ, mimic the thickness, buttress-like geometry, hues and tactility of vernacular Ladakhi architecture. Windows are narrow to maximize thermal comfort and the woodwork is reminiscent of traditional iconography and geometry. Together, the earth, stone and wood follow the local piquancy, creating a sanctuary germane to the physical, cultural and historic context.
Fact File
Designed By: Enso Design
Typology: Hospitality Architecture and Design
Project Name: Chospa Hotel
Location: Leh Ladakh
Completion Year: 2021
Built Area: 22940 sq.ft.
Principal Architect: Chinglemba Chingtham
Design Team: Ajaydeep Jamwal, Diksha Hans, Shubham Sahai Gupta, Wugnaoyi Meiphok Zimik
Firm’s Website Link: Enso Design
Firm’s Facebook Link: Enso Design
Firm’s Instagram Link: Enso Design
For More Inspiration >> WORLD’S FIRST ART AND CRAFT HOTEL LAUNCHES IN INDIA
Marble house designs in the Indian context constantly change and upgrade with time but never go out of style. Marble a timeless and versatile material, finds its application in various settings ranging from flooring to ornamentation. If you are looking for marble house ideas to add a touch of quality and luxury to your home, […]
In small bathroom layouts, every square inch counts. Without a thoughtful plan, a small space can quickly become cluttered, making it feel even more cramped. The right bathroom layout not only enhances functionality in interiors but also creates a sense of openness. Think about it—how frustrating is it to move around a bathroom where the […]
Creating a TV unit design in bedroom requires the right balance of functionality, optimization, and aesthetics to enhance the space. Apart from cots and wardrobes, TV units in a bedroom play a pivotal role in captivating an individual’s attention. Keeping in mind, the design theme and concept of your home, the TV unit design in […]
In the serene countryside of Vaiyampatti, an Indian retreat nestled amidst the vast expanse of paddy fields stands a humbly placed farmhouse exuding quiet grace and rustic elegance. It is a perfect setting, reminiscent of William Wordsworth’s “Solitary Reaper”. Editor’s Note: “Inspired by the timeless charm of Nalukettu architecture, this Trichy residence is enveloped by […]
Nestled in the serene locale of Banswara, Rajasthan, the exquisite interior design of this 6500 sq.ft. house epitomizes elegance and functionality, which the designer and now the house owners call is “sukoon.” Designed with meticulous attention to detail, this 3 BHK home seamlessly integrates a library, a rejuvenating jacuzzi, a modern gym, and an inviting […]
Ekam Retreat is a renovation project amidst the scenic terrains of Amboori, Trivandrum, Kerala. The project aimed at breathing new life and nature into an abandoned house. The walls of the house had significant damage and were left to the forces of nature. Editor’s Note: “The renovation of this residence in Trivandrum is a harmonious […]
20 MM marble has become the industry standard used by architects, designers, and builders alike, though there are many options for what material to use. It is not an accident that it is rapidly becoming the global number one. This thickness in marble provides special advantages, with 193 of the 195 countries using only 20 […]
This 5,735 square-foot house in Amritsar whispers the timeless grandeur of Indo-British architecture with a quiet yet commanding elegance. The residence and its elegant and subdued design pays homage to a regal past, offering a subtle yet impactful narrative through its carefully curated interiors. The house in Amritsar essence captures the delicate balance between heritage […]
Beautiful interiors blends with the aesthetic and functional house design, creating spaces that are visually appealing and comfortable. Featuring a harmonious colour palette, thoughtful lighting, a mix of textures and materials, and personalised touches. Elegant furniture arrangement and smart storage solutions further enhance the overall design, making each room both inviting and practical. Creating a […]
In this Baroda house project, we bring together a blend of two seemingly different styles – contemporary and ethnic – to create a unique and visually stunning space bathed in understated luxury. Interior design is all about creating spaces that reflect the individuality and style of the homeowner. The client Yashwant bhai Shah came to […]