'In the words of a critique, it gives the impression of a perpetual Durbar being set here. Originally built as the British Viceroy’s residence, the intention behind its construction was to convey an imperial sway, offering a sense of permanence of British rule in India. This ‘empire in stone is now the permanent residence of the President of India. Its iconic dome is visible from a distance and is modeled after the pantheon of Rome. The mansion has four floors and 340 rooms. Hardly utilizing any steel, it was built using 700 million bricks and three million cubic feet of stone. '