Dwell & Design
Mumbai holds the second-largest collection of Art Deco structures (after Miami) -
This architectural style emerged in the 1930s reflecting the city’s cosmopolitan growth.
01
Taraporewala Aquarium
TARAPOREWALA AQUARIUM in Mumbai is a popular marine attraction with an art deco aesthetic that combines sleek lines, geometric motifs, intricate detailing of sea horses and other sea creatures and its ziggurat-like massing. The aquarium particularly stands out for its magnificent imposing and stepped elevation.
photo Pratick Soni/ @Travel Brainy
02
Shiv Shanti Bhuvan
SHIV SHANTI BHUVAN is a prominent landmark in Mumbai. This yellow and green structure comes to life with its ornate facades, intricate carvings and vertical ornamentation. Apart from features like geometric patterns, sleek lines and intricate detailing - Art Deco structures often feature vibrant pastel colours and ornate motifs.
03
New India Assurance Building
THE NEW INDIA ASSURANCE BUILDING was constructed in 1936 and is a classic example of the Art Deco wave that swept through Mumbai pre-independence. The building achieves its modern yet decorative appearance through its use of concrete and bold artwork. The ribbed projections shade the windows and add a strong geometrical design replete with Art Deco style.
photo Pit Spielmann
04
THE DHANRAJ MAHAL is a historic Art Deco building located in the Colaba district of Mumbai, near the Gateway of India. It was constructed in the mid-1930s as the city palace for Maharaja Narsingir Dhanrajgir Gyan Bahadur of Hyderabad. It is one of the most expensive and imposing architectural structures of the Old Bombay era. The distinctive pink stone cladding used for the vertical ornamentation - highlights classic Art Deco design elements. The soft pastel walls contrast beautifully with the sleek ascending projections that add scale to the design.
