Inside Arq: The Leela Palace’s Private World of Luxury and Influence

In a city where luxury is constantly evolving, The Leela Palace New Delhi has introduced a destination that transcends the traditional notion of a private club. Arq, the hotel’s newly launched members-only enclave, has been conceived as a sanctuary for a discerning community where privacy, culture and elevated experiences take precedence.

Designed around the symbolism of the peacock, India’s national bird, Arq is an immersive expression of contemporary opulence. Rich teal embroidered walls, bespoke curved mosaics, striking blue sodalite stone tables and shimmering K9 crystal chandeliers come together to create interiors that are both majestic and intimate. Every detail has been thoughtfully curated to evoke a sense of understated luxury, where craftsmanship and design take centre stage.

At Arq, the rhythm of the day unfolds seamlessly. Members can host board meetings, retreat into a tranquil sanctum for reflection, or browse through a thoughtfully curated reading room housing more than 350 books. As evening descends, the club transforms into a sophisticated social haven where rare single malts and engaging conversations flow effortlessly. An elegant private dining room for ten, styled after Versace, offers an intimate setting for bespoke culinary experiences, complemented by carefully curated wine pairings. Private elevators further enhance the sense of exclusivity that defines the club.

Yet what truly distinguishes Arq is its philosophy of intentional exclusivity. Membership is neither transactional nor readily available; it is carefully curated through multiple stages of review, with final approvals personally overseen by the CEO. The process ensures a community united by shared sensibilities, discretion and an appreciation for exceptional experiences.

“Arq is built on the principle of intentional exclusivity, a space where membership reflects sensibility as much as status,” says Anurag Bhatnagar, CEO, The Leela Palaces, Hotels & Resorts.

More than a members-only club, Arq represents a new chapter in luxury hospitality. In a capital known for its discerning social landscape, it emerges as one of the city’s most coveted addresses an exclusive world where refinement, exclusivity and world-class hospitality come together in perfect harmony.