A luxury property is more than its physical structure; it is a story told through design, culture, and experience. The Radisson Resort & Spa, Lonavala, is a prime example—a modern fortress nestled in the Sahyadri Hills, deeply rooted in Maratha heritage. Capturing this unique narrative required a tool that could translate not just the space, but its soul. This is where a Matterport digital twin becomes an essential storytelling medium.
The Challenge: Capturing an Experience, Not Just a Space
The primary challenge was to create a digital asset that transcended a simple virtual tour. The goal was to build an interactive experience that could convey the resort's unique architectural philosophy, which is inspired by the five elements (Pancha Mahabhuta) and the imposing grandeur of Maratha forts. Standard photography could show the spaces, but it could not adequately communicate the interconnectedness of the design narrative.
Project Goals
- To create a comprehensive, high-fidelity digital twin of the entire resort, including guest rooms, restaurants, event spaces, and amenities.
- To translate the architectural narrative of the five elements into a navigable digital experience.
- To provide the sales and marketing team with a powerful tool to accelerate the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sales cycle.
- To increase direct booking confidence by offering unparalleled transparency to potential guests.
The Solution: A Thematic Digital Twin
The solution was to structure the digital twin's presentation around the five elemental themes that inspired the resort's design, using the technology to highlight key features of each.
Earth: Foundation and Form
The resort's design is a tribute to the rugged, enduring forts of the region. The ceiling of Corten steel is engineered to rust gracefully, evoking a timeless feel. The walls are built from Deccan Basalt, excavated directly from the site, grounding the structure in its natural environment. A highlight is India's tallest gabion wall, a 21-meter testament to sustainable engineering. The digital twin allows viewers to appreciate these textures up close, conveying a sense of solidity and authenticity.
Water: Flow and Nourishment
The story of Hirkani, the milkmaid whose courage inspired the all-day dining restaurant, is central to the resort's narrative. The tour allows guests to virtually stand in the Hirkani restaurant, see the well at the center of the buffet, and pan to the outdoor seating. They can then move to the Malhari bar and the unique black-floored Kund swimming pool, designed to absorb solar energy. Each space is connected not just physically, but by a story of nourishment and celebration.
Fire: Light and Celebration
Every evening, Radisson Lonavala honors the element of fire with the traditional Tutari and Mashal ceremonies, marking the transition from day to night. While a 3D tour cannot capture the sound of the trumpet or the warmth of the torch, it preserves the space where these traditions come to life. By adding interactive Mattertags with videos or text descriptions of these ceremonies, the hotel can share this unique cultural experience with a global audience, enriching the virtual visit.
Air: Movement and Nature
The resort's architecture, divided into the Sinhgad and Vijaygad wings, is designed to channel the refreshing winds of the Sahyadri hills. The tour allows users to navigate the airy corridors and appreciate the Finnish Pine facade, designed to weather over time like a true fort. Viewers can virtually step out onto the expansive Peshwa Lawns, envisioning the open-air events and trekking opportunities that define the Lonavala experience.
Space: Grandeur and Gatherings
The final element, Space, is embodied in the resort's magnificent event venues. The digital twin is an invaluable tool for the MICE market. Event planners from anywhere in the world can explore the 2,200 sq ft Surya Bhavan and the larger, divisible 4,260 sq ft Raj Bhavan. They can use the tour's measurement tool to plan layouts with precision and see how the collapsible walls open up to the Royal Bastion and waterfall, a key feature for weddings and grand events.
Conclusion: An Interactive Archive of a Brand Story
The Matterport digital twin of Radisson Lonavala does more than just showcase rooms and amenities; it serves as a permanent, interactive archive of the property's unique architectural and cultural story. It allows the sales and marketing team to sell not just a stay, but an immersive cultural experience, differentiating the property in a crowded luxury market and connecting with guests on a much deeper level.