Symbolically presenting the principle that no matter how high oneโs head is, one cannot stand without a good foundation, the tiled roof comes down and stands close to the ground; the house is full of design diversity without a wall and without a gate, reminiscent of a tent between the flat sky and the wide earth.
The design, suited to the tropical climate, is also a reflection of the high thoughts of this home. Motivational speaker and expatriate, the house owner Babuji, who welcomes all visitors without keeping them out with a compound wall or setting a limit at the gate. The trees in the plot have been preserved as much as possible and the Champa tree in front of the house has been presented as a canopy. A grassy slab-covered walkway leads to a porch accented with geometric symbols. Each area of the interior is identified by the three-level variation in the roof.
Plot is almost rectangular in shape east west in direction. The terrain slopes to south side. The plot has moderate wind current. Vegetation is also moderate. The soil is lateritic and coarse in nature. Roofs sloping in nature and pitching straight into the ground connected the structure more closer to the natural terrain. The idea was to seat the home without giving a profound visibly, but rather belonging to the terrain. Pitching roofs could bring in a subtle character to its overall form.
The steel trussed roof with clay tiles was an easy choice, so as to reduce the concrete load and less damaging site to an extent. It further enhanced the interior comfort in terms of temperature, as the intermittent gaps in the tiles reduced stack effectโOur task was to translate the clients character and his social commitment into an equally competing architectural concept which needed to humble in nature and essentially be an ele- ment sprouted from the terrain.
The home was the planned to have no com- pound walls to give it a boundless character and to retain the vegetation available at the site substantially.Subtle colours inked on the exteriors to lessen the profoundness of the structure and to emphasis the greenery of the topography”Said the architect.
single straight line from
Once inside, you will see that the house is in a single straight line from the living area to the kitchen. Partitions are often not walls, but furniture, and patios. There are only the most minimalist arrangements. There is no false ceiling and the tiled roof design is visible throughout. Some of the rafters provided for the roof are extended downwards and specially designed lighting fixtures are placed on them.
The staircase separates the dining and the water body. The natural light system is provided on the roof of the water body, which fills the entire house with light.
The whole wall of the family living room is covered with glass to bring in the view of the green valley outside. The same patterned design elements in wood can be seen as artefacts on the bedroom wall, sitting area and bookshelf. The walls are all in the gray color of cement plastering.
A minimalistic policy that continues everywhere, including bedrooms, avoids unnecessary decorations and colors. Neutral colors are everywhere; The only break in between is the colors in the furnishing items. Upstairs is just one bedroom and living area. The guest bedroom is downstairs with access from inside and outside the house at the same time. Guests can enter the room from outside without going inside the house.
Since it was a sloping plot, there is a cellar at the bottom. This is where the facilities including the accommodation of the house staff are located. The staircase is also a design element here. Overall, the house looks modern, but if you look at each one of the aspects then you will understand how much importance has been given to the traditional elements and construction methods in the houseโs architecture detailing.
Additionally, Wayanadโs geography, climate, and surrounding serene views have all been considered while constructing this architectural masterpiece. This aspect can be defined as contemporary or up-to-date design.
PLAN
Project Team
Project Details
Principle Architect: Ar.Roopesh
Associate Architect: Ar.Prem Site Engineer: Er.Satheesh
A beautifully crafted home near Thrissur Akaladu with simple yet attractive features. When upgrading to a new location,( This is a house that had to be rebuilt when the highway took the place)Mr.Salim had some thoughtful ideas and suggestions for his dream home;the new house should have 4 bedrooms and a sufficient single-floor layout with minimalist interior design. The focus was on neutral colors, functionality, suitability, and adaptability to climate factors.
The Minimalist Approach
In consequence,the chief designer, Suhail P.C and Faseela, and Jumana, from Design &Dรฉcor,Thrissur has focused more on practicality than extravagant designs or color schemes. The height of the truss work of the courtyard has been elevated to create a loft area within, adding ample storage space integrated into the design. This utility area is noticeable in the elevation of the house which can be extensively used for any activities happening in the house.
Courtyard is focal point
The courtyard, filled with greenery and flowing water, with a lush green color when natural light passes through, and with a significant emphasis on plants, is the main focal point of the atrium. Steel mesh is used to cover it for protection, creating a safe environment where birds can also find shelter.
The seating arrangement around the perimeter of the courtyard, providing added comfort and convenience, is ideal for watching TV, receiving visitors, discussing current affairs, spending leisure time, or reading a book. It’s a favorite spot to relax and enjoy various activities according to Mr. Salim and family .These natural features are what make the courtyard the central focal point of the atrium.
Each day break starts with a newspaper and a cup of tea; listen to the birds chirping, enjoy the sound of flowing water and spend time in the natural ambience of the courtyard with joy. It’s a very pleasant experience being connected with nature in this place. That’s why we all love this space so much.The modular kitchen here follows a proper space utilization that facilitates interaction during dining and serves ample space for relaxation and reading.
The courtyard’s design encourages outdoor activities in a serene and less polluted ambience. Additionally, the courtyard serves as a transition space, connecting different parts of the house seamlessly. The minimalist approach extends to the furniture and finishes, with light-colored flooring and the walls are highlighted with textured painting.
This is a house where the outer view isn’t just visually pleasing; every space inside is meticulously crafted to cater to the needs and preferences of those who reside there. A home should contribute to both physical health and inner peace, allowing one to relish every moment. That’s what makes this house a place to cherish.Overall, this home reflects the family’s preferences and lifestyle, offering a peaceful and comfortable living space tailored to their needs and interests.
Project Details
DESIGN TEAM : SUHAIL P. C (Chief Designer) FASEELA &JUMANA
Nestled in Periyapuram, Piravom-Onakur; lies the Tharavad an exquisite blend of colonial and traditional Kerala architecture, boasting a history that spans over 150 years. Under the ownership of KV John Koomullil, this architectural gem stands as a testament to the bygone era. Its quaint front verandah adorned with arches, and the intricate network of doors within, reflect the colonial architectural ethos.
Similar marvels grace the homes of the Tarakan’s in Ezhupunna and the CMS College in Kottayam.Witnessing the masterful carpentry, a solution born of necessity in the absence of modern machinery, is an experience to behold.
Arched doorways, sturdy pillars (ara), and the traditional features like the chamber (nira), cellar (nilavara), and cow shed (Eruthil) offer a glimpse into a bygone way of life. The surrounding landscape, encompassing a pond ensconced in red stone across 8 acres and a verdant grove, harks back to the agrarian roots of tradition.
The need for renovation became apparent as the ravages of time began to manifest. Despite suggestions to raze it to the ground, owner KV John, a former architect in Mumbai’s town planning department, chose a path of reverence for heritage. His expertise in conservation and preservation guided the meticulous restoration, ensuring each element paid homage to its storied past.
The expansion of the โpoomukhamโ, adorned with sculpted teak pillars and an arched porch, adds a touch of grandeur reminiscent of yester years. Authentic Athamkudi tiles from Karaikudi now grace the floors, while the roof, crafted in the classic arch shape, boasts and new tiles. The courtyard, paved with red stone and adorned with a โthulasitharaโ, exudes an aura of timeless elegance.
D
Inside, the charm continues with refurbished Manichitra locks adorning double doors, updated flooring, and meticulously restored windows. Modern amenities seamlessly blend with traditional craftsmanship, with downstairs offering cozy bedrooms, a cellar, a prayer area, and intimate living and dining spaces. Upstairs, a spacious hall, bedrooms, and traditional โara and pathayamโ provide ample space for contemporary living.
The attention to detail extends beyond the structure, with the surrounding landscape meticulously preserved. Native fruit trees and stately teaks adorn the grounds, while the pond, a focal point, underwent restoration, ensuring a bountiful water supply.
Through comprehensive renovation, preservation, and environmental stewardship, the Tharavad stands as a timeless beacon, showcasing the enduring beauty of traditional architecture.
There is something relaxing and peaceful about proximity of water โฆ Its tranquil but uplifting experienceโฆ
This residence designed for a nuclear family ,with 4 beds was designed with an open plan utilizing the scenic beauty available outside .
The water body and landscape patches seamlessly integrate into the design of the house . All rooms capture the view of the water body and the rear patio . Natural light is bought inside from windows and opening with extended slabs
A striking effect is achieved with extended patios around the house which blurs the line between inside and outside.
The entrance foyer into a double height space creates a volume with ample sunlight and opening .way to create private exterior space towards vistas and protecting itself from the noise of the roadย .
Early morning light will enter the sleeping areas of the house . The entire house is naturally cross ventilated to keep interior temperature low and breezy in thick summer.
The L shape is a practical way to create private exterior space towards the vistas and protecting itself from the noise of the road.the main living space is partitioned and the master bedroom is covered with a deckto the south. The shaded space allows an intermediate area and is completely secure . The large southern overhang permits the sun into living space can cool before entering the house in the middle of summer.
Materials and expectations capture the essence of the site as well as the functional requirements of the users thereby reflecting both warmth of a house and design aspirations .
The central patio by acts as a narrator of the story playing its important role in each and every space.
As it winds through elegantly from dawn to dusk complemented by the rich marble and wood creates a beautiful picture of harmony and grace using the view of the house on the waterfront.
Varying degree of privacy are achieved in all spaces . The design utilized a wrapping motif that dissolves the corner of spaces with window and opening that capture panoramic view
The design success of this project is its cohesive despite an addictive flow of spaces in the layout .It reorients view from all square shaped rooms through corner wrapped fenestration.
The interior theme of the villa
The interior of residence is a visual treat in terms of the exotic finishes and eyes of the viewer and gives a sense of awe to theviewer in the double height space in the hall area and the artifactsusedin the interior .
A highlight element of the project would be the patio space in the hall area that seamlessly exists to connect the space in rich wooden and glass finishes the view to the rear side landscape and water adds to an open feel the house .the luxury inside the house has been synced through the rich italian marble finish and the full height automated curtains to the wall features in brass and metal spaced throughout the house.
All bed rooms especially the rear ones have been designed with utmost care to bringin a transparency to the water view and landscape outside . all bed headrest havebeendraped in rich leather and with specialist finishes to the panelling behind .the blue pantry area designed in glass and ceaser stone is a high end ladies dining area lying right opposite to the ladies living area.
The extended deck for the dining and ladies living is used for any get togethers and parties. The client being a very prominent figure is involved in social getogethers and parties at home.
Nevertheless the extended balconies , deck areas and the gazebo are favourite spaces for anyone who visits the ville . the exotic wall finish offers an understated elegance .it was important to complement the deep blue look without detracting from it.
a lighter aesthetic comes to the master suite .relaxation and privacy were key notes in the ville design .the spaces have been treated with luxurious finishes which are light and soothing.
The client requested a four-bedroom house integrating living, dining, kitchen, and other ancillary uses in an open plan. With this thought planted as a conceptual seed, the team decided to act discreetly linking it with the immediate surrounding.
Surrounded by nature and fresh air, one of the primary drivers was to ensure the house values quality of life and features large windows opening to the outside, creating a visual connection.The large opening is a feature that amplifies the internal and external areas and endorses the experience of using a space.
The entry opens to the cohesive dining, living and family areas with an internal courtyard that lets one experience the outside in the interiors. The design emphasizes a practice of coexistence while supporting privacy for the intimate areas. The bedrooms are clustered on the far end as you enter,with the wardrobes, dress area and toilets tucked in.
While designing in Kerala, the sloped tiled roofs are a crowd favorite, keeping up the traditional element and being in-tune with the seasons. However, this project brims with modern details such as straight lines, and cleaner spaces combining the warmth and functionality. A neutral color palette with wood accents and all wood furniture brings a clean look making the courtyard and the green prominent.
The shared spaces facing the courtyard garden become a conscious design decision to embrace the art of receiving among neutral tones and comfort. Among the shared spaces is a wall that carries the breakfast counter on one side and a bedroom entry on the other, thus becoming a notable feature in creating privacy as required.
