The Panhala Project
Resort, Panhala, Maharashtra
Project info
Category
Hospitality
Timeline
Ongoing
The project is nestled at the foothills of the Panhala Fort tabletop, where the landscape meets the skies and the monsoon rains shape everyday life. Responding to the region’s torrential downpours, the structures are thoughtfully designed with sloping roofs and deep overhangs, ensuring both protection and visual rhythm. Laterite blocks form the robust load-bearing framework, grounding the architecture in local tradition and materiality. Reclaimed columns and doors are carefully integrated, adding character and a tangible sense of history to each space. Water features and private plunge pools within each unit create serene retreats, harmonizing with the lush surroundings and offering a sensory connection to nature.
The process
The design process began with a careful study of topography, climate, and existing vegetation. Sloping roofs with deep overhangs were introduced to manage heavy rainfall, directing water away from living areas while creating shaded outdoor spaces. Laterite blocks, abundant locally, were chosen as the primary load-bearing material for their durability, thermal comfort, and regional authenticity.
In an effort to create a dialogue between the old and new, reclaimed columns, doors, and timber elements were meticulously sourced, restored, and integrated into the structures. This approach not only adds visual richness but also fosters a sense of continuity with the past.
The interiors and private courtyards were designed to heighten the connection to nature. Water features and plunge pools were carefully positioned to enhance microclimate, create reflective visual surfaces, and provide serene, intimate retreats for each unit. Throughout the process, the emphasis was on harmonizing modern luxury with local vernacular techniques, crafting spaces that are both functional and sensorially immersive.
Outcome:
The final design is a seamless integration of architecture with the natural landscape—robust yet delicate, contemporary yet rooted in tradition. Each unit offers privacy, connection to water, and a tactile, immersive experience of the region’s climate, materials, and heritage.
