"Diana Kellogg found the architecture of Jaisalmer captivatingly stunning."
In an exclusive interview, renowned architect Diana Kellogg shared her captivation with the architectural splendors of Jaisalmer, a city in Rajasthan known for its rich heritage and resplendent golden glow.
The city, fortified by 99 bastions, houses the Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a captivating reminder of the city's medieval glory. Within its walls lie treasures waiting to be discovered, such as the opulent Maharaja's Palace and exquisitely carved Jain temples.
Behind the walls of these architectural marvels, one can find intricate craftsmanship and ethereal beauty. The city's architecture is characterized by delicate carvings on every facade, resembling "stone lace," and encompassing floral patterns, geometric designs, animal motifs like peacocks, and detailed scenes of everyday life.
What sets Jaisalmer's architecture apart is its harmonious blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. This fusion is evident in the Havelis, grand mansions of wealthy merchants, each with intricate facades and ornate balconies (jharokhas). The Patwon Ki Haveli, Nathmal Ki Haveli, and Salim Singh Ki Haveli are some of the most notable examples.
The buildings' distinctive texture and ambiance are further enhanced by stone latticework (jalis) carved into the sandstone, facilitating delicate light patterns and airflow. The remarkable thermal qualities of the sandstone also help maintain indoor comfort despite the desert heat, showcasing how functionality is fused with artistry.
Diana Kellogg's acclaimed project, the Rajkumari Ratnavati Girl's School, showcases her passion for preserving Jaisalmer's architectural beauty. Her design philosophy is rooted in preserving the essence of Jaisalmer's architecture while infusing it with modern sensibilities.
The upcoming interview with Diana Kellogg offers insights into her extraordinary journey as a visionary architect and her upcoming projects, which are a subject of interest and anticipation. The interview is featured in the upcoming June issue of our blog.
Each Jain temple in Jaisalmer is a masterpiece of architectural finesse, adding to the city's architectural wonders. The city's architecture, primarily built using golden-yellow sandstone, provides a unique gleaming appearance in the desert sun, earning Jaisalmer the nickname "Golden City."
In summary, Diana Kellogg's fascination likely stems from how Jaisalmer’s architecture harmonizes sculptural beauty and practical design, highlighted by its golden sandstone medium, ornate carvings, and the synthesis of cultural styles distinctive to the region.
In her upcoming interview, Diana Kellogg expresses her interest in Jaisalmer's architecture, particularly its blend of lifestyle and home-and-garden designs in structures like the Havelis and Jain temples. This blend also extends to her own designs, as evident in the Rajkumari Ratnavati Girl's School, which aims to preserve Jaisalmer's architectural traditions while incorporating modern sensibilities. As travelers explore Jaisalmer, they can witness this harmonious fusion of artistry and functionality, making it a unique destination for architecture enthusiasts.
