TravTalk - India

Tradition meets modernity

Known for its century-old legacy, Taj Connemara has reopened in Chennai. The property is known for its architectu­ral influences of Classic Colonial, Art Deco and a refreshing interior design.

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After undergoing a year-long renovation and redesign, Taj Connemara reopened in Chennai recently. Over a century old, the hotel is a proud relic of the colonial era, and is named after Lord Connemara, the then Governor of Madras.

Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Company Limited (IHCL), said, “Taj Connemara is another jewel in the Taj portfolio of iconic heritage hotels. We are committed to continuing our century-old legacy of restoring historical treasures across the globe for our guests. The newly-renovated hotel draws on its illustriou­s past while offering patrons a distinctiv­e, modern and individual­istic experience.”

Restoratio­n of a design icon

Taj Connemara’s refreshed design has eclectic architec Colonial, Art Deco and distinctiv­e elements from the celebrated architect, Geoffrey Bawa’s ‘Tropical Modernism’ style, coupled with a refreshing interior design. The hotel’s 147 rooms and suites spread across the Tower and Heritage wings are each appointed with elegant four-poster beds, vintage prints and objects d’art. Sensitive preservati­on of the Art Deco facade and interiors will showcase the hotel’s original features including wooden carvings sourced from the 16th and 17th century temples of Mahabalipu­ram. Guests will enjoy 4.5 acres of landscaped greens and enclosed atrium gardens. Ahmar Siddiqui, General Manager, Taj Connemara, Chennai, said, “The hotel is the result of the efforts of a team including master craftsmen and artisans who have tirelessly and lovingly worked on restoring the city’s legendary landmark. I look forward to extending the warm Taj hospitalit­y to our guests.”

Food & Beverage

Restaurant­s and bars at Taj Connemara shall prove to be attraction­s for Chennaites and hotel guests alike. Informal and formal dining choices convey a 19th-century clublike feel. The Lady Connemara licensed bar – reclaims its position as the place to be seen at. Novel culinary experience­s showcase nostalgic Anglo-Indian dishes and regional Madras specialtie­s in a relaxed ambience at the all-day-diner Verandah, while the quintessen­tially Chennai experience Raintree continues to serve authentic Chettinad fare in an alfresco setting.

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 ??  ?? Puneet Chhatwal Managing Director and Chief Executive                                                                      Limited (IHCL)
Puneet Chhatwal Managing Director and Chief Executive Limited (IHCL)
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