One of the earliest known lighthouses was built in 285 B.C. at Alexandria, Egypt, guiding sailors safely across rough seas. While its purpose was navigation, the lighthouse also became a powerful symbol of direction, safety, and wonder.
At Arbor Road Estate, that same sense of wonder takes shape in a very modern, yet deeply rooted way.
Kirti’s fascination with lighthouses traces back to her childhood, inspired by Enid Blyton’s Famous Five adventures. Years later, while master-planning their rural land near Wargal, a casual remark by her brother brought those memories rushing back. Almost instinctively, the idea of building a lighthouse found its place on the estate. That moment planted the seed for what would become one of Arbor Road Estate’s most iconic structures.
A Design Marvel Built Entirely from Earth
Rising 51 feet high, the lighthouse at Arbor Road Estate is a true design marvel. What makes it extraordinary is not just its height, but how it has been built.
The entire structure is constructed using Compressed Stabilised Earth Blocks (CSEB), made on-site from soil excavated within the estate itself. There are no RCC pillars or beams, making it a rare example of sustainable architecture achieved at scale.
Completed in May 2019, this lighthouse stands as one of the newest earth-built lighthouses in the world, blending innovation with traditional building wisdom.
Inspiration from History, Designed for Today
The initial idea was to create a library winding up along the spiral staircase, inspired by a “Potteresque” vision. However, this required a much larger footprint, which would not have been structurally proportional to the height achievable using earth blocks.
Drawing inspiration from historic structures like the Mahabalipuram Lighthouse and the Fort Niagara Lighthouse, the design evolved. The final structure now features:
- A library at ground level
- A spiral staircase leading upward
- A submarine-style rung ladder that takes visitors to the Viewing Gallery at about 30 feet
This thoughtful redesign allowed the lighthouse to remain elegant, stable, and true to its eco-conscious philosophy.
A Fairytale Experience at Dusk
As night falls, light glows softly through the glass windows, giving the lighthouse an almost fairytale-like presence. A wind vane atop the structure points north, while a lightning conductor ensures safety for the lighthouse and surrounding buildings.
For some visitors, the climb up the 50-odd steps feels a little daunting. But those who make the ascent are rewarded generously.
From the top, the view opens up to:
- Golden sunsets
- Expansive paddy fields
- The serene Wargal Lake
- A bird’s-eye view of the entire Arbor Road Estate
It is a moment of pause, perspective, and quiet awe.
More Than a Structure
The lighthouse at Arbor Road Estate is not just an architectural feature. It reflects the spirit of the estate itself—rooted in the land, respectful of history, and designed for mindful living.
In a place built around slow living and sustainability, the lighthouse stands tall as a reminder that meaningful design does not need concrete and steel to leave a lasting impression.
