Indira, an inviting home designed to tell a story
Hidden in the green hills of Kfour, a peaceful village in the Lebanese mountains perched above the Mediterranean Sea, Indira, a two-hundred-year-old mansion transformed into a guest house, fuses traditional Lebanese architecture with Far Eastern accents. It comprises a central building and garden, complemented by three pavilions.
The Indira story began in 1986, when a magnificent 200-year-old traditional Lebanese house became the home of the Baz family. Over the course of four decades, it has witnessed many happy moments, milestones and countless memories. Today, it houses an original collection of oriental art from various cultures and regions of the Middle and Far East: artifacts, sculptures and exclusive works of art find their place in this beautiful dwelling, adding to its distinctive character as a meeting place of civilizations and religions. Today, it has been transformed into a guest house: Indira – a name that means “splendid” in Sanskrit. Designer – and daughter of passionate collectors – Carla Baz has always dreamed of preserving this building, which is so dear to her heart, and transforming it into a place that can be enjoyed by many, thus ensuring its longevity.
The project took about a year, between the first reflections with the help of hotel consultants, the renovation and the opening. To honor the identity of the building, Carla Baz sought to collaborate with people whose expertise and artistic sensitivity could allow us to revisit the journey while retaining the idiosyncratic character of the residence and its owners. It is in this spirit that the idea arose to merge its efforts with Maison Tarazi, a renowned house in the creation of oriental craft objects since 1862. This collaboration allowed the restoration of the damascened wall panels, the renovation of the ceiling cornices as well as the furniture and complex mother-of-pearl marquetry.
In addition, Carole Tarazi Nasnas, former fashion editor turned interior designer, made her valuable contribution. As part of her first interior design project, she was responsible for the selection of all upholstery and bedding fabrics, and played a key role in styling Indira’s bedrooms and communal areas. The result is a design that transports visitors to a place where past and present combine to evoke a golden age of sophisticated, understated luxury: Damascene joinery merges with colorful Chinese portraits; antique pieces merge with modern lines and color palettes; velvet sofas and ornate patterns bring understated elegance and timeless comfort. Indira is, in a nutshell, a unique and timeless residence that will enchant and seduce visitors.
The building can accommodate twenty guests in ten prestigious suites. Each has its own private outdoor area, and guests can relax in the rooftop swimming pool. A spa is also available, with a sauna and the option of massage, body and facial treatments. When it comes to food, Indira offers a variety of dishes ranging from Thai specialties to traditional Levantine delicacies, carefully prepared to delight the senses. Oriental spices and exotic ingredients blend delicately to create a perfect marriage of new and familiar flavors.
As for the cellar, the centerpiece of the premises, it has been transformed into a bar to welcome guests from near and far. The emblematic vaulted stone gallery, once a stable, is converted into a piano bar and speakeasy, providing the perfect setting for late night drinks, intimate conversations and joyous gatherings enhanced by live music. Here, guests are sure to find the comfort and tranquility they seek in a welcoming atmosphere, attentive service and delicious cuisine.