Their desire to be perceived as modern, or progressive, resulted in a fascinating amalgamation of architecture and lifestyle. Theatre flourished, freedom fighters were patronised and funds for temples were released.

In this traditional community institution, the rooms open into or overlook the courtyard, thereby shielding the activities of its residents from the gaze of outsiders. On the other hand, stylistic elements for the treatment of facades were more readily embraced: Gothic or rounded arches dominate the façade.

Their sculpture, on the other hand, draws from Indic themes. Elephants, cows, religious figures, and other themes adorn the building facades. Local builders were not in awe of colonial architecture but, rather, domesticated it by molding it to their own architectural and aesthetic needs. Cultural encounters resulted in both, the destruction of cultures, as well as the creation of something new out of this union.

Hira Bagh is striking in the way it curves the corner in a manner reminiscent of the Old Oriental Bank Building, an older colonial building in the Fort area. The arched panels on the second floor of Hira Bagh are carved in floral patterns, festoons, and the corner panel contains an image of animals drinking out of a trough.