Indy old Court House in Kochi fort is jagged with sophisticated art decor
Standing out like an oasis in usually busy Calvathy Road in Fort Kochi, Indy old Court House was restored painstakingly by Amitha Madan of Treelight Design with arresting artworks, paintings, and handmade Athangudi tiled flooring manifesting a glorious craft heritage.
Whether one is in town for the Biennale or exploring the heritage town of Kochi high on aesthetics, one can’t resist making a call to the Old Court House after the day ends.
Once constructed as a courthouse about 200-year back, the luxury hotel in Fort Kochi is buttressed with heritage and sophistication, hotel’s striking art decor renovation has lent the structure a new avatar as in past it has also duly served as a warehouse for spices and teas.
After years of neglect, the building was restored a couple of years back by Amitha Madan, the principal architect at Tree light Design. The property is now an invitation to cherish the classical luxury with its striking black-and-white handmade Athangudi tiled ground and the décor patterns change subtly is the same—undulating stretches of monochrome elegance reminiscent of the glory days of Art Deco. Instagram-worthy nooks and corridors sneak up on you with unexpected splashes of color.
Apart from famous Athangudi tiles, the sixteen rooms are a mix of suites, deluxe, and twin rooms. which are furnished with beds and sofas or armchairs draped in velvet. During the restoration process, a concerted effort was made to preserve the heritage as much as possible. A surprising (but welcome) touch of teal acts as an enchanting counterpoint to the black and white floors.
The lounge on the first floor is a gorgeous space and is often used for events, including the prestigious Kochi Biennale. The décor is kept simple with the spotlight firmly on the charm of the colonial architecture. Little touches like a pair of elaborately painted decorative cow-heads (an iconic Kochi souvenir) juxtaposed with twin mirrors to make the space dazzling.
Photo courtesy Indy Old Court House
