Look closer, Hyderabad’s Art Deco legacy hiding in plain sight | Hyderabad News

Hyderabad: “We need to look closer at our city, I never take a seat while on the Metro,” said architect RS Manasa at a talk, urging people to pay attention to the details that can be easily overlooked in Hyderabad’s busy colonies.Art Deco, known for geometric forms, symmetry, streamlined shapes and decorative detailing, began appearing in Hyderabad in the 1930s and remains visible across the twin cities. From Abids and Gunfoundry to Himayat Nagar, Afzal Gunj and Secunderabad, buildings with curved corners, distinctive windows, geometric grilles and rounded features are mostly passed without a second glance.“Hyderabad is slowly losing its old charm as new modern architecture comes up,” said Anvita M, an attendee, adding that “before these beautiful pieces of our city disappear, we need to spot them and uncover their stories.”“For conservation, that awareness needs to extend beyond architects and heritage enthusiasts. Documenting surviving structures, encouraging owners to retain original features and recognising Art Deco buildings as part of Hyderabad’s heritage could help protect them,” said Sirish, an architect.The talk, organised by LAB (Lecture at Bar), explored how Hyderabad gave the international Art Deco style a local character, adapting it to the city’s climate, materials and architectural traditions. Jeera Colony in Secunderabad, with around 30 documented Art Deco homes, was among the areas discussed, along with State Bank of Hyderabad building, Moosa Building, Niloufer Hospital and State Central Library.A curved balcony, geometric grille or unusual façade may seem insignificant on its own, but together, they form a part of Hyderabad’s architectural identity.