Welcomhotel Katra

Courtesy Of ITC Katra

Welcomhotel Katra By ITC Hotels

• Architects

Set in the scenic foothills of Trikuta Parvat and located at a stone’s throw away from Ban Ganga, the starting point of the Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage, WelcomHotel by ITC at Katra is the perfect place to decompress, relax, and embark on a path of spiritual enlightenment for the guests. In addition to the location, they can also explore this area’s tourist attractions, such as the majestic Patnitop & the stunning Chenab River. These places have some sublime views ideal for a serene mindset. Combining stylistic rooms and the culinary legacy of Welcomhotel by ITC, this hotel is one of the best places to rejuvenate oneself. Painstakingly crafted by the design team spearheaded by Ar. Anil Badan, Principal Architect of Studio B Architects, this hotel is an architectural marvel in itself.

photo_credit Courtesy Of ITC Katra — Courtesy Of ITC Katra

Initially, the client asked for an uber-modern hotel that was also rooted in the traditional elements of the geographical region. At the same time, the brief also called for something that was highly low-maintenance. Manifested by the regional influences of the Katra, the hotel takes inspiration from various contextual elements present in the city like temple bells, regional motifs. Since Katra is situated in a picturesque setup of valleys and hills, the property had to be maintenance-free in terms of materials as all the resources were supposed to be shipped from Jammu or Delhi. Owing to the virtue of the geography, various elements of the hotel have been engineered to reflect the rich cultural heritage of being around Vaishno Devi. However, this concept is translated to a contemporary interpretation through colour scheme and overall decor elements integrated. For instance, a standard colour palette of rust, green, and saffron has been used in the hotel in order to impart a certain tone of holiness.

As one enters the hotel premises, they encounter the palatial reception cum waiting room. Perfect for welcoming the guests, this reception area is enormous in size and dimensions. Steeped in the beauty and the cultural influences, various recurring themes can be seen in the hotel, one of them being a motif of holy bells. The gold from religious bells has been used extensively in the hotel as an art piece. The bell is also used as a backdrop of the reception, where “OM” is done in gold, contrasting with darker shades of wood.

As we veer to the left, there is a banquet cum conference hall, a multifunctional space for events like pre-wedding ceremonies and large conferences and client meetings. Replicating the concept of the reception area, this space is ideal for hosting large gatherings since it is spread over a languorous area of 3,00 sq ft and can accommodate an astounding 300 people. The lawn here adds to the charm of the hall as it can be used for entertainment purposes as well. Muted colours have been used in the banquet hall, and an enormous asymmetrical chandelier proves to be one of the most breathtaking facets of this area.

Moving on, opposite the lobby is a tea lounge, where the guests can sit back with a steaming cup of tea to gaze at the gorgeous view of Vaishno Mata Shrine. It has floor-to-ceiling windows that boast a stunning view that allows the bright sun to stream through the windows and a well-equipped snack bar that can be accessed by guests. The design comprises wooden flooring, a high ceiling, and hanging lights that are not overpowering.

Adding to the expansiveness of the hotel, there is another enormous lawn that faces the magnificent hills from where the guests can gaze at the mountains and savour an eye-pleasing scene. A vast custom chandelier is also integrated here to be visible from the restaurant seating. It gives a 360-degree look at the kitchen. The seating area is a combination of dining chairs and lounge chairs to accommodate family time since many guests come in groups that love to experience the sheer beauty of Vaishno Devi.

Traversing to the first floor, there are two additional conference rooms, combining guest standard rooms, 20 suites, and guest executive rooms. Keeping user comfort in mind, all the rooms have been carpeted, keeping in mind the freezing temperature of the location. Since Katra is a place that has been a fan favourite of families, the rooms are also interconnected. On the fifth floor, there is a gym and a three-room spa. All the spa rooms are attached with steam rooms and sauna baths. There is a pool on the terrace of the fifth floor, which again overlooks the mountains.

The overall lighting scheme is very subdued and indulges focus lighting throughout the property. The design team has used direct lighting. The colour palette is comparatively subtle and soft in nature. Hints of colours have been used in the hotel, so for instance, orange taken from saffron and green from the mountains is a recurring color taken as the primary colour scheme. The floor is of a significantly lighter shade so that it maintains the palette and goes with the overall theme of the hotel, which is very calming.

In order to match the furniture with the surroundings, a contemporary modern approach has been taken as well. The integrated furniture is easy to maintain. Studio B Architects have promoted local artisans through this property by engaging them to work on the artwork integrated throughout the property. Additionally, they have used all the original arts in the hotel available locally, one of them being basoli, a dying art.

WelcomHotel Katra is an architectural and interior wonder designed by Studio B Architects. While the architecture and the interiors are vast, the architects have done justice to the wonderful interiors of the space in order to celebrate the beauty of Katra through a warm and lavish design philosophy.