Located in Kolkata’s historic Darjipara neighbourhood, this nearly 300-year-old residence was sensitively retrofitted to secure the family’s financial future while preserving its historic character and social continuity.
The intervention transformed the house into three self-contained apartment units, two of which were sold to provide long-term financial stability. The design retained much of the original structure, with new circulation and service systems carefully integrated to support contemporary living.
Recycled and repurposed materials were extensively used, while the new apartments preserved the home’s defining qualities—generous ceiling heights, natural cross-ventilation, and a strong relationship with the street.
The project demonstrates how traditional residences can be adaptively reused to meet present-day needs while safeguarding architectural heritage. It was recognised with the HUDCO Conservation of Heritage Award for its sensitive and innovative approach.
- Property/Project Name: Darjipara Home
- Location: Darjipara, Kolkata
- Project Type: Retrofitting a Traditional Residence
- Category: Homes
- Client: R. K. Dutta
- Year: 2009
- Site Area: 200 sq. m
- Project Status: Completed
- Award(s): HUDCO Conservation of Heritage Award
