Trademarks are largely associated with major brands and logos. But did you know – even buildings can be trademarked? A trademarked building is one whose design, shape, or appearance is so unique and recognisable that it becomes an integral part of a brand鈥檚 identity. This legal status protects the building’s image from being used for commercial purposes without permission.
Some of the world鈥檚 most famous buildings, like the Eiffel Tower, the Empire State Building, and Sydney Opera House, have been trademarked, and in 2017, the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai became India鈥檚 first building to be trademarked. This means its unique design – especially the iconic red dome and architectural style – is legally protected, much like a logo or brand name.
The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel became India鈥檚 first building to be trademarked in 2017. Here’s all you need to know
The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), which owns the hotel, trademarked it to stop the unauthorised use of its image for commercial purposes like souvenirs, advertisements, or merchandise. To be able to use the image of the hotel for commercial purposes, you will first need permission from the IHCL.
The Taj Mahal Palace, which opened in 1903, is one of Mumbai鈥檚 most famous landmarks. The hotel has hosted leaders and celebrities from around the world, and has also survived events like the 2008 Mumbai attacks.
The stunning hotel was built by Jamsetji Tata, the founder of the Tata Group. It was one of the most luxurious hotels in India in the early 90s and was also the first building in Mumbai (then Bombay) to be electrified. It was also the first building in the city to have a lift, generator, sofa maker and more.
The hotel faces the Gateway of India and overlooks the Arabian Sea. Its design is a mix of Indian, Islamic, and European styles. The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel has 560 rooms and 44 suites, most of which offer stunning sea views.
Trademarked Buildings in India
While the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel was the first building in India to be trademarked, two more iconic structures in the country have received a trademark in recent years.
In 2018, the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) received a trademark for its iconic building, the Phiroze Jeejeebhoy Towers, located on Dalal Street in Mumbai.
Earlier this year, the Osmania University Arts College in Hyderabad became the third building in India to be trademarked. Built in 1939, the college is famous for its Indo-Saracenic architecture and houses 164 rooms.
Meanwhile, several other buildings around the world are trademarked, including Empire State Building (New York), Burj Khalifa (Dubai), Taipei 101 (Taipei), Eiffel Tower (Paris), Sydney Opera House (Sydney), Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (New York), and Space Needle (Seattle).