Blending royal heritage with contemporary luxury, Raj Vilas in Mysuru serves as a masterclass in architectural restoration. The century-old estate has been meticulously revived to balance historical authenticity with modern functionality.
- A century-old bungalow built between 1900-1910 in Mysuru restored using traditional lime mortar.
- The project balances preservation of the original façade with a complete modern reconstruction of the rear wing.
- Collaboration between conservation architects and INTACH-trained specialists ensured structural integrity.
- Transitioned from a potential boutique hotel to a private family retreat.
Located on the historic Balkrishna Rao Road in Mysuru, Raj Vilas is more than just a residence; it is a living chronicle of the kingdom of Mysore. Built between 1900 and 1910, the bungalow represents a pivotal era of architectural fusion. Acquired in 1992 by Raja Chandra, the home has recently undergone a rigorous six-year restoration process that challenges the notion that heritage homes must either be frozen in time or completely modernized.
The restoration strategy, led by conservation architect Sanjog Shetty, was surgical in its precision. Rather than attempting to retrofit an outdated floor plan, the team decided to retain the iconic façade and front half of the bungalow while demolishing the rear portion. This allowed for the introduction of three ensuite bedrooms, a modern kitchen, and a double-height living area with a skylight, ensuring the home meets the demands of 21st-century living without sacrificing its soul.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that Raj Vilas represents a growing global trend of 'Adaptive Reuse' in residential architecture. By avoiding the 'museum effect'—where a home becomes too precious to actually live in—the owners have created a sustainable model for preserving urban heritage. This approach proves that historical load-bearing structures can coexist with modern steel reinforcements and open-concept layouts.
The technical execution of the project was deeply rooted in traditional wisdom. The team employed Mahesh Ninganna, a contractor experienced with the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), to implement lime mortar finishes. This traditional mixture, fermented with jaggery and local tree resins for waterproofing, ensures the building 'breathes,' a critical factor in the longevity of century-old masonry.
"The authenticity was paramount; the goal was to replicate the original proportions while fortifying the structure for another century of use."
Structural stability was guaranteed through the guidance of S. Raghunath, a retired professor of civil engineering. To prevent structural stress, the foundations of the original front wing and the new rear extension were kept independent. The flooring is a curated mix of original early-1900s Basel Mission tiles and new terracotta, creating a seamless visual transition between the old and the new.
What began as a plan for a boutique stay eventually evolved into a deeply personal project. As Aditya Guru Dev and Samyukta Lakshmi witnessed the house regain its former glory, the decision was made to keep it as a private family sanctuary. Today, the home serves as a weekend retreat from the bustle of Bengaluru, where the scent of lime mortar and the sight of Mangalore tiles offer a meditative escape.
| Feature | Original Structure (Front) | New Extension (Rear) |
|---|---|---|
| Walls | 14-18 inch Load-bearing | Modern Load-bearing with Steel Beams |
| Roofing | Traditional Mangalore Tiles | Madras Terrace with Steel Reinforcement |
| Finishes | Restored Lime Mortar | Contemporary Lime-based Plaster |
| Purpose | Foyer, Office, Terrace | Bedrooms, Kitchen, Dining |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a 'monkey top' in the context of Raj Vilas?
A: Monkey tops are A-shaped wooden or tiled window sunshades typical of old Mysuru architecture, designed to protect windows from heavy rain and direct sunlight.
Q: How was the structural integrity of the old building maintained during new construction?
A: The foundations of the old and new wings were kept entirely independent to ensure that the weight of the new construction did not compromise the original masonry.
