When a heritage property as iconic as the Raviz Hotel in Ashtamudi transitions into The Leela fold, it calls for a sensitive design transformation—one that respects legacy while elevating experience. This is precisely what Elemental, an architectural studio known for its context-driven and climate-responsive design, achieved in the reimagination of The Leela Ashtamudi.

Helmed by architect Amrutha Kishor, the project began in 2022 and focused on the holistic renovation of core hospitality spaces including the main lobby, suite rooms, corridors, bathrooms, and waiting areas. The challenge wasn’t just visual—it was emotional: how to embody The Leela’s high luxury standards while celebrating Kerala’s cultural identity.

Elemental approached this with meticulous attention to detail. Locally rooted materials such as natural fiber rugs, clay roof tiles, and lime-plastered walls were woven seamlessly into the design language. These materials weren’t just aesthetic—they were atmospheric, offering a tactile and sensorial connection to the land.

Each design move was deliberate—from ornamental borders around doors that integrated room numbers, to finely crafted lighting fixtures and custom-made accessories. The outcome is a symphony of textures, tone, and tradition that feels both opulent and grounded.

What sets Elemental apart is its ability to see architecture as a conduit between people, place, and memory. Founded by Amrutha Kishor in 2020, the studio has swiftly earned a reputation for delivering climate-sensitive, culturally resonant design solutions across residential, hospitality, institutional, and mixed-use projects.

In The Leela Ashtamudi, their design philosophy truly comes alive—transforming a storied property into a timeless sanctuary where luxury meets legacy, and modernity harmonizes with heritage.