Woven Echoes

Each yarn whispers a tale that echoes across the globe...

Woven Echoes - Main view

Project Type

Exhibition Pavilion Design

Client

Jaipur Rugs Competition

Designers

Desume Studio

Rooted in the architectural soul of Jaipur and inspired by its intricate visual grammar, this pavilion reinterprets traditional Indian design through a minimal lens. Drawing cues from the rhythmic geometry of Jaipur's facades and the hypnotic symmetry of stepwells (baolis), the design creates a spatial experience that is both grounded in heritage and elevated by vision. The façade features recurring arches, echoing the uniform intervals found in Rajasthani palaces and forts, with deliberate gaps to allow a breath of fresh air and glimpses inside.

The entire central space is purposefully kept open, allowing free movement and visual flow. Rugs are placed only on the walls and within the installation, ensuring the heart of the pavilion remains airy and uncluttered. Strategic use of mirrors in select areas amplifies light and creates a feeling of vastness, extending the space beyond its physical boundaries.

Visitors enter through the Jaipur Rugs logo wall (a free standing wall), turning left to an introduction panel that sets the tone and educates them about the brand. The showcase features three to four Jaipur Rugs collections, each linked to a sensory experience. The journey begins with the Aalam collection—carpets layered on one wall, and on the opposite side, brand films playing on small screens beside curated text. From here, visitors step into the heart of the pavilion—an immersive installation inspired by the symmetry and mirror-like reflections of Rajasthan's stepwells. Nine rows of suspended carpets cascade above, mirrored on both sides to create infinite reflections. At the far wall, two interactive looms invite hands-on engagement—symbolising the brand's origin story: how Nand Kishore Chaudhary began with just two looms and nine artisans, and how that humble beginning has grown into a global movement empowering thousands of rural families. Underfoot, an original carpet floor encourages visitors to touch and feel the very essence of the brand.

Exiting this core, the narrative flows into other collections. In Gulmarg, visitors experience carpets alongside folklores of warriors under a sound shower—stories beautifully woven into the designs. Someplace in Time evokes nostalgia through scents of Jaipur—sandalwood, aged walls, and desert winds—subtly diffused to transport visitors to another era.

The journey culminates in a vibrant tribute to the artisans themselves. A wall collage showcases portraits of Jaipur Rugs' makers, depicting the tapestry of unbreakable bonds they've knotted. Opposite, Manchaha and Freedom Manchaha creations are paired with the artisans' own words, heard through traditional pots repurposed as speakers. Interaction turns playful with a carpet block game and the traditional Chausar, inviting guests to linger.

As they depart, visitors are encouraged to take a piece of the story home—a small token, a memory of the hands, voices, and dreams behind every knot.

Project Gallery

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