Taj The Trees
Conran and Partners collaborated with Studio Vikhroli, Godrej Properties’ in-house design team, on Taj The Trees in Mumbai’s Vikhroli. The latest addition to Godrej’s ‘The Trees’ campus, it’s one of India’s most sustainably planned mixed-use developments, replacing the family-owned historic factory complex. Located next to the largest mangrove forest in the region, the campus offers a unique oasis of calm amid one of India’s busiest cities, with the hotel at its centre.
This project brought together the iconic Godrej and Tata families, blending Taj’s heritage with contemporary architecture. Existing industrial buildings on the site give a nod to the heritage of the area, home to India’s Swadeshi movement – the original ‘Make in India’ movement. Going beyond the ‘industrial aesthetic’ Conran and Partners set about representing the core values of such an important company in India’s industrial revolution over the past century. Celebrating manufacture, craft, details and beauty in precision.
The design seamlessly integrates the hotel with the campus, serving as a vibrant asset for both tourists and locals. The ground floor features a café and a ballroom with access to a private courtyard garden – creating a smooth flow from inside out.
The first-floor lobby space makes use of soaring ceilings and bespoke artwork creating moments of awe as you enter. Beyond the lobby are the meeting and events spaces, envisaged more as a co-working space, with sophisticated industrial detailing and an openness that embraces modern workers.
On the second floor is the immersive wellness and spa area with five treatment rooms, a relaxation room, a salon, a gym and a studio. Simple forms celebrate the beauty of the natural timber and stone materials instantly transporting guests into another world of calm and serenity.
The third floor is home to the all-day dining restaurant and destination restaurant with a subtle 1920s Shanghai Deco influence referencing contemporary Indian cuisine. Both restaurants have generous terraces facing out to the spacious pool deck which overlooks the campus sculpture garden beyond, connecting the hotel to its surroundings.
The 150 guestrooms are made up of king rooms, two bay suites and one Presidential suite. All display breathtaking views across the mangrove trees or alternatively the tranquillity of the infinity pool and sculpture garden. Rooms are open and airy, with openable bathrooms and detailed joinery and artwork reflecting the site’s concept.
The intimate gin bar on the top floor has an expansive terrace overlooking the mangroves, celebrating the distillation process from start to finish, creating a unique experience for guests to enjoy.
