This project for a small boutique hotel with ten guest rooms and one standalone chalet is situated near the idyllic hill hamlet of Majkhali in the Indian state of Uttarakhand on a very steep mountainous terrain at an altitude of approximately 1,800 meters (about 5,900 feet) above sea level. The site offers spectacular views towards the Indian Himalayas in the distance with the sunsets being especially mesmerising when the snow-capped peaks begin to glow in warm orangey colours against the dark blue skies. Being in a very picturesque and touristy area, with visitors coming mainly from the capital but also from other corners of this enormous country, the proposal aims to contribute to the regeneration of the area and the development of the local economy.
The design had to respond to the challenges and restrictions that the dramatic topography of the site imposes – by finding an optimal integration of the building into the sloping terrain and establish connectivity between the resulting different floors and levels.

The sleek exterior facades utilise locally sourced natural materials of the highest quality, such as stone and wood, which directly relates to and honours the building tradition of the region – to create a sense of solidity, permanence and authenticity by relying on a contemporary but non-invasive architectural language that visually blends in with the surrounding nature.
The retractable glass doors of the restaurant help blur the boundary between inside and outside and create a seamless integration of the indoor seating areas and the outdoor terrace with an infinity pool, allowing the nature to flow freely into the building and harmonise with the comfort and luxuries of modern living.
The design employs a number of passive sustainability strategies – natural ventilation, rainwater harvesting and conservation systems, passive solar heating, glazing that maximises natural light and optimal site orientation thus minimising the need for artificial lighting and climate control within the building.