IDEAS reimagines an 18th-century palace restaurant in Jaipur, now called Marble Arch, blending timeless heritage with contemporary elegance to create a world-class dining destination.
Originally built in 1745 as a garden pavilion for the Army Chief of the Maharaja of Jaipur, the Jai Mahal Palace represents a significant chapter in the city’s architectural and cultural history. Defined by a combination of Rajputana and IndoSaracenic architectural styles, the palace and its gardens are spread across 18 acres, establishing a serene oasis in the heart of the city.
Nestled within the palace is the Marble Arch restaurant. The all-day dining multi-cuisine restaurant has recently undergone a facelift by IDEAS, focusing on preserving its legacy while revitalising the furnishings, surfaces, and overall ambience. Named after its iconic Makrana marble arches, the hall has been meticulously restored to reflect the palace’s Indo-Saracenic roots. Every detail has been carefully considered to honour the architectural style and history of the palace and its context.
One of the primary design challenges was preserving the historic marble arches that characterise the interiors. IDEAS approached this task with a deep regard for the restaurant’s heritage, integrating old and new elements that enhance the space without compromising its historical integrity.
The project’s planning phase focused on layout optimisation to improve circulation and functionality and accommodate large footfalls. The buffet area is redesigned to enhance service efficiency and guest comfort.
As guests enter the Marble Arch, they are greeted by a rich, textured colour palette inspired by Jaipur’s signature pink and salmon hues. Sourced from Asian Paints’ Dune series, this choice of colours evokes warmth and reflects the city’s vibrant heritage. On the other hand, the feature walls are adorned with Asian Paints’ Nilaya Series Chuna Pani wallpaper, featuring intricate Indian motifs that enhance the restaurant’s cultural richness.
The furnishings have been updated with Satya Paul’s Phool Mandi collection, showcasing exquisite embroidery of the native mogra flower. This addition not only brings a touch of luxury to the space but also pays homage to traditional Indian craftsmanship. Lighting plays a crucial role in the overall ambience of the Marble Arch. Custom-designed brass chandeliers, floor lamps, and wall sconces feature intricate designs that complement the space’s elegance, casting a warm glow that highlights the architectural details and enhances the hospitality experience. Decorative mirrors with antique gold finishes serve as focal points throughout the restaurant, reflecting the beauty of the surrounding decor and amplifying the sense of space. These elements collectively contribute to the restaurant’s regal charm and sophistication.
The ceiling features a heritage-inspired interlaced pattern, adding depth and character to the space. The intricate design details complement the arches and walls, creating a sense of grandeur and sophistication that resonates throughout the space.
The refurbishment of the Marble Arch reflects Jaipur’s rich culture and history and provides a luxurious setting for culinary experiences that celebrate the artistry of diverse flavours. IDEAS’ design interventions aim to ensure that the Marble Arch remains a timeless destination for future generations.
