For Rajaya Estate, Ar. R K Malik has fused two eras, where neoclassical elegance meets modern precision. Every element, from proportion to detailing, celebrates balance, grace, and enduring design.
Evoking the charm of a European manor, Rajaya Estate stands as a timeless expression of grace and grandeur. Designed by Ar. R K Malik, Associated Architect, RK Malik & Associates, this Moradabad residence beautifully marries classical detailing with modern design sensibilities. The result is an elegant, well-balanced home where contemporary lines meet traditional refinement, creating a space that feels both sophisticated and enduring.
The client’s brief emphasised a desire for a modern design aesthetic enriched with classical touches, which led to an eclectic design that captivated the senses with style. The team opted for contemporary palettes, classical details, and furniture that was a fusion of both styles.
The project’s design was guided by the theme of “Modern Elegance with Classical Refinement.” This led to a home that seamlessly integrated the sleek, minimalist aesthetics of modern architecture with the timeless sophistication of classical design details. This approach ensured the home remained contemporary while exuding a sense of luxury, warmth, and charm.
The home follows a contemporary open-plan layout, but traditional zoning principles are subtly incorporated to maintain functional demarcation between private and public spaces. Transition areas, like hallways and foyers, are adorned with decorative cornices and ceiling mouldings to enhance the visual impact of movement between spaces. The design successfully combined modern aesthetics with classical detailing, which was achieved by carefully selecting materials, finishes, and technologies. Each element was chosen for its ability to balance luxury, durability, and elegance.
The facade design is a key architectural feature, embodying the client’s desire for a modern aesthetic infused with classical detailing. Its combination of natural materials like mint stone and brown stone, coupled with intricate mouldings and grand proportions, ensured a striking and timeless appearance. Mint stone is the primary material used in the facade cladding, providing a natural, soothing hue that harmonises with the surroundings. On the other hand, the brown stone is used as an accent material for plinths, base cladding, and borders to contrast the mint stone and add warmth.
Stepping indoors, the living area, akin to a grand mansion, welcomes one with its double-height space and ornate mouldings. The Italian flooring, textured paints and metallic accents in wall decor evoke a luxurious atmosphere, infusing glamour and sophistication. Here, a mix of tufted sofas and classical curves blend modern functionality with timeless aesthetics, making it perfect for gatherings and conversations. Maintaining a balanced layout and symmetry hallmarks classical design as elements like aligned doorways, framed windows, and harmonised proportions create a visual continuity.
Transitioning to the dining area, the layout follows an open plan, connecting the kitchen and living areas. Suspended pendant lights paired with soft wall scones cast a warm glow. Golden-tinted mirrors on walls and classical column design add a layer of sophistication. Antique frames are incorporated into wall panels to amplify light and enhance the spatial experience.
The private spaces- the bedrooms ensure privacy, comfort, and tranquility, infused with elements that reflect personal luxury. Ceilings with hidden LED lighting create an ambient atmosphere while custom-made furniture, including upholstered beds and bedside tables with brass inlays, balance modern comfort with classical style. Velvet and silk upholstery bring in the royal elegance of Neoclassical designs. Further, the bathroom includes high-gloss tiles for modern aesthetics. Vanities made of marble countertops with metallic brass and gold tones lend a luxe touch to the space, creating spa-like zones.
The design extends the living experience outdoors to create a harmonious connection to nature. Central courtyards are infused to connect one with nature, and pathways feature stones for durability and a natural aesthetic. Indigenous plants complement the rustic elements and reinforce the connection to nature. Oversized glass panels flood in natural light, whereas balconies and terraces feature classical balustrades and stone railings paired with simple planters, adding depth and ornamentation to the facade. Windows surround features pediments and trims, framed with bold mouldings, while the roofline includes deep cornices to accentuate its classical finish.
The residence is a nod to sustainability with energy-efficient fixtures and the use of local materials. LED lighting is installed throughout the home, blending indirect ambient lighting within coffered ceilings to provide a soft, warm glow. Further, rainwater harvesting systems are subtly integrated into outdoor landscaping. The design pays homage to local traditions by using natural mint and brown stones, which lend a tactile, grounded quality to the exteriors and outdoor spaces, subtly tying the design to regional aesthetics.
Overall, the architect has created a Modern-Classical fusion that creates a sophisticated yet comfortable home that feels rooted in tradition while embracing modern-day functionality, catering to the client’s aesthetic preferences and lifestyle aspirations.
Photography: Design Worx
