Rashtrapati Niketan

Master Planning

Rashtrapati Niketan, Dehradun, is a historic presidential estate reimagined through a sensitive redevelopment approach centred on landscape, public access, and heritage conservation. Established in 1838 and later used as a presidential retreat, the 21-acre estate carries a distinctive legacy shaped by its architecture, gardens, and natural setting. The Rashtrapati Niketan by CP Kukreja Architects redevelopment focused primarily on landscape enhancement, site planning, and the careful integration of new public-use spaces while respecting the existing historic fabric.

CP Kukreja Architects developed a landscape-led strategy rooted in heritage conservation architecture, master planning, and contemporary heritage architecture. The intervention strengthens the relationship between the existing buildings and the surrounding gardens through improved circulation, shaded walkways, landscaped courts, water features, and visitor-oriented spaces.

The project also incorporates principles of master planning and sustainable landscape architecture. By working primarily with the estate’s landscape and public realm, the redevelopment preserves the historic character of Rashtrapati Niketan while enhancing accessibility, ecological value, and the overall visitor experience.