The Lodhi Hotel, New Delhi, India
Published 2 July 2020
The gist: The Lodhi interprets traditional Indian architectural elements through a restrained contemporary language. Sandstone columns and perforated screens establish the building’s rhythm, while landscaped space and a sunken courtyard organise the two wings. The profile’s architectural interest lies in how these elements shape the hotel’s atmosphere and relationship with its setting.
Location: CGO Complex, New Delhi, India
Year built: Built in 1965 / reopened 2009
Architect: Kerry Hill
The Lodhi Hotel is situated near the centre of New Delhi and is a short distance from Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India.
Originally opened as a government office in 1965, the old and outdated Lodhi Hotel fell into disrepair. Australian architect Kerry Hill was eventually commissioned to build a new resort, which took nearly a decade to complete. Reopening in 2009, the Lodhi Hotel is a contemporary take on traditional Mughal architecture and features Gangapur sandstone columns as its main focal point.
Floating between the columns are perforated masonry screens, also known as jaalis. A reference to Indian architecture, these modern screens are made from glass-reinforced cement and stainless steel brackets.
Inside, the decor has a soothing colour palette with finely detailed furnishings. Sitting on a 7-acre site, the hotel comprises of two L-shaped wings, a large green lawn with a sunken courtyard, three tennis courts and a pool area.
About Kerry Hill
Born in Perth, Kerry Hill was an award-winning architect specialising in tropical Asian hotel design. A graduate of the University of Western Australia, Hill worked on projects around the world, including in Hong Kong, New Delhi, Jakarta and Singapore.
As well as the Lodhi Hotel, Hill’s other notable works include the Singapore Cricket Association Pavilion, the State Theatre Centre of Western Australia, the City of Perth Library and the Sukhothai Hotel in Bangkok. Securing a commission from the hotelier Adrian Zecha in 1979, Hill went on to design nine Aman Resorts, including Aman Tokyo.
Photos by @thelodhidelhi &
