LEFT: Architectural elements have been left untouched ABOVE: The Golden Dragon restaurant has been refurbished by LTW with a contemporary new look
It is a befitting tribute to the spirit and resilience that is The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, and the beginning of a new
chapter in the history of the hotel. Raymond Bickson, Managing Director, Indian Hotels Company Ltd.
resilience that is The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, and the beginning of a new chapter in the history of the hotel.” These words were echoed by President Obama speaking during a stay at the hotel: “Mumbai is a symbol of the incredible energy and optimism that defines India in the 21st century... The Taj has been the symbol of the strength and the resilience of the Indian people.” Today, few reminders of 26/11 remain.
The Moorish, Oriental, and Florentine-style façade – designed by architects Sitaram Khanderao Vaidya, Ashok Kumar and D. N.
36
Mirza – bears no scars having been rebuilt and strengthened. Inside, the only indicator is a touching memorial garden where friends and families can pay tribute to the 32 hotel staff and guests who lost their lives. Significantly, its centrepiece is the tree of life, an artifact that was originally situated on the fifth floor and left unscathed in the attacks despite surrounding damage. Rather than dwelling on the past, Taj has
focused its energies on recapturing the level of style and service for which it has become known. Keeping one foot firmly planted in its history, the hotel has been
given a new lease of life to reflect the spirit of Mumbai. Design firms LTW, Lissoni, JPA, Bamo and Rockwell Group were tasked with refurbishing 289 guestrooms, including 46 grand suites, 82 Taj club rooms, and 161 grand luxury rooms, as well as a range of food and beverage outlets. The design teams were briefed to retain the classical appeal of the hotel, infusing it with modern touches. Architectural elements such as vaulted alabaster ceilings, onyx columns, and graceful archways were left untouched, while the state-of-the-art amenities and a contemporary design scheme propelled the hotel into the 21st century. Hand-woven silk carpets, crystal chandeliers, and an eclectic collection of furniture characterise the rooms, while corridors stand testimony to the hotel’s heritage, with genuine artifacts and antiques gracing the aisles. In addition, The Taj has acquired a magnificent collection
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