Chennai: A landmark conservation project is breathing new life into the historic Bharat Insurance Building on Anna Salai, aiming not only to stabilize the ageing structure but also to restore its distinctive façade and window design, which once made it a visual standout in the city.
Erected in the late 1800s, the building is noted for its richly articulated exterior, where towers, spires, and layered masonry combine with carefully proportioned openings. Over decades of exposure and neglect, many elements of the façade — including plasterwork, cornices, and decorative detailing — had eroded or disappeared entirely, dulling the building’s original character.
As part of the ongoing restoration, conservation teams are meticulously repairing the external surfaces using materials that closely match the original construction. Cracked plaster and damaged stonework are being treated or replaced, while ornamental features are being reconstructed based on archival references and on-site evidence.
The building’s tall arched windows, timber shutters, and ventilated openings — designed to balance aesthetics with climate responsiveness — are being restored to their original proportions. In places where windows had been sealed, altered, or replaced over time, the openings are being reopened or redesigned to reflect the historic layout, improving both visual harmony and natural airflow.
Special care is being taken to retain the rhythm and symmetry of the façade, particularly along the street-facing elevations where the interplay of windows, balconies, and vertical towers defines the building’s identity. The restored fenestration is also expected to enhance daylight penetration inside the structure while maintaining its heritage appearance.
Experts involved in the project say the goal is not to modernize the building’s exterior, but to recover its lost architectural language. The restoration is expected to take close to two years.
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