With more than three decades of experience, Kush Shah, founder of Scarlett Designs, has become a pioneering force in architecture. As our Teams call connects, I can’t help but notice the backdrop of Kush’s office—a raw, exposed brick wall that instantly evokes the timeless simplicity of Louis Kahn’s work, one of Kush’s greatest influences. It’s a fitting scene, reflecting his design philosophy, where raw materials and authenticity reign supreme. A proud CEPT graduate, Kush’s approach has been shaped by the legacies of Kahn, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Le Corbusier, merging tradition with modernity in a way few can replicate. His latest project, Ananta Resort in Ajabgarh, is a stunning example of nature-inspired luxury that breaks free from convention. As we dive into our conversation, Kush opens up about his design journey, the challenges faced in creating Ananta Spa & Resort in Ajabgarh, and how his deep connection to the land continues to shape his visionary approach to architecture.
Excerpts from the interview…
Ankita Rathod (AR): Kush, Ananta in Ajabgarh is a departure from typical Rajasthan luxury. What was the brief from the Ananta Group, and how did you execute it?
Kush Shah (KS): Exactly! The brief was clear—Sanjay (Goyal), the client, didn’t want us to replicate the typical
palatial designs you often find in Rajasthan. You know, where they take a mountaintop and create a fort-like
structure with Indo-Saracenic elements. We wanted something different—something that was deeply rooted in
heritage but not confined by it. We drew from the broader Indian history, not just Rajasthan. You’ll see courtyards,
colonnades, and double-height spaces, but these elements have been reinterpreted to feel modern, while still staying
true to the essence of Indian architecture.
AR: The property feels in harmony with its surroundings. How did you use the landscape to shape the design?
KS: The design isn’t just for aesthetics; it’s about working with the environment. Rajasthan’s weather is intense—hot and dry for most of the year. So, we focused on creating spaces that breathe naturally. The courtyards, colonnades,
and the layout itself all respond to the wind flow and create shaded areas that allow for natural ventilation. This is
key to the comfort of the guests, while still staying true to the aesthetic and heritage of the region. The layout is
completely organic, responding to the contours of the land. No two pathways are the same, and that’s very deliberate. It’s a break from the usual grid systems.
AR: The Earth, Fire, Lagoon, and Bamboo Villas each have distinct identities. What inspired these designs?
KS: Each villa at Ananta has a unique connection to nature. For example, the Bamboo Villa. The bamboo grove near
the villa inspired the design. When you look at the bamboo growing along the pathways, it’s as if it’s coming together
in an alliance. That really dictated the form of the villa. It’s inspired by the organic shapes of nature. Similarly, the
Earth Villa takes inspiration from traditional Rajasthani architecture, where we use materials like stone and wood
that are deeply connected to the region’s vernacular design.
As for the Fire Villa, it’s an abstract representation of fire, which is not literal. We sketched out the flames and
used cubic lines to create a form that’s unique and not something you typically see in a luxury space.
AR: The materiality palette is fascinating, with raw yet luxurious elements like bamboo and fire. How did you select these materials?
KS: The idea was never to use opulent materials that distract from the natural beauty of the space. We wanted the materials to feel authentic, raw, and honest. So we used bamboo, stone, and wood in their natural state. There are no gilded mirrors, no massive chandeliers—nothing that takes away from the connection to the land. The design is about creating warmth and comfort through the landscape, the layouts, and the natural materials. It’s all very simple but still luxurious because it feels real. The organic paths and random placement of the villas break away from the rigid geometry we typically see in architecture, and that’s key to creating a space that feels grounded in nature.
AR: What were some of the biggest challenges you faced while designing and constructing the property?
KS: This project definitely wasn’t without its challenges! The land itself was difficult; the boundaries kept shifting,
and that forced us to revise the layout multiple times. This wasn’t a typical urban site, and approvals and clearances were often delayed. The construction process was challenging, too, since we were working in such a remote
location. Even something as simple as getting paint or materials was a logistical challenge. We had to transport
everything from Jaipur or Delhi, and it could take hours. But these challenges led to creative solutions, and we found ways to adapt the design to the land, which made it all the more rewarding.
AR: You’ve had such an impressive career in design. Tell us a little bit about your journey and early influences in design?
KS: It’s been an incredible journey, and over the years, my perspective has evolved—but I’ve always stayed connected to the basics—simplicity, authenticity, and a deep respect for nature. I’ve always admired architects like Louis Kahn, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Le Corbusier and their ability to push boundaries. Frank Lloyd Wright revolutionised architecture with his open-plan concepts, which was unheard of at the time. Le Corbusier’s brutalism, using exposed concrete, was also groundbreaking. He broke away from the polished, fine finishes that were common
at the time and showed how raw materials could be used effectively. Louis Kahn, on the other hand, took
inspiration from classical architecture and reinterpreted it in a modern context. Their work influenced me by
showing that architecture isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about understanding materials, breaking conventions,
and creating spaces that resonate with their time. And it was amazing that most of these architects built in
Ahmedabad—so it was inspiring to grow up surrounded by these iconic structures and learn from them firsthand.
AR: Before we wrap up, I know you’re also passionate about diving and nature. How do these personal interests influence your design work?
KS: Yes, I’m a certified open-water diver, and whenever I get the chance, I dive. There’s something about being
in the ocean, surrounded by marine life, that keeps me grounded. It’s such a peaceful experience, and it reminds
me of the raw beauty of nature. Similarly, I love going on safaris and exploring the jungle. These experiences help
me stay connected to the natural world, which in turn informs my design work. Nature is the greatest teacher,
and it constantly reminds me of how simple, yet powerful, things can be when they’re rooted in the earth.
Also Read: Design Without Limits: The Archohm Story
