Interpretation of Tradition
The project is set in three acres of landscaped tropical gardens. The residence captures the essence of traditional Kerala architecture, despite its apt adaptations to the modern lifestyles of people. The architecture of the structure, as well as its location in a well- complemented and thoroughly designed landscape, truly celebrates the traditional methods and techniques of architecture that has existed in Kerala for hundreds of years.
Tradition holds sway even today when it comes to designing a home in Kerala. Most Malayalis still yearn for the perfect blend of traditional design, which incorporates modern elements and is practical for today’s living. The architects have interpreted and responded to this desire while designing a sprawling bungalow in Kannur that aims to pay an ode to the timeless nature of Kerala’s traditional architecture. Kerala is a land that’s truly been blessed, having a strategic geographic location; with the blue waters of the Arabian Sea on one side which brought seafarers and traders to its shores, and the
verdant hills on the other side where spice plantations, coffee and tea are grown. On the narrow strip of land in between are lush paddy fields and backwaters, a unique eco- system that draws people from all over the world. Kerala enjoys a tropical climate with a heavy monsoon, harsh sunlight and high humidity throughout the year and so traditional architecture responded well to the climatic needs.
All the fauna used in the landscape is locally available, or belonging to a tropical climate, hence not demanding too much attention from the user’s side. An overall look at the building in this site provides a glimpse into the climatic
conditions of Kerala, and the feudal traditions that have influenced its structure.
By featuring a mosaic masterpiece in the landscape depicting kathakali, a dramatic classical Indian dance that originated in Kerala, an affinity towards culture and traditions is successfully conveyed. The landscape also features a natural lagoon, a vegetable garden and a lot of old trees, that have been maintained to leave remnants of the old site, for our client to remember.
A large driveway leads to a commanding front porch. Situated right above the car parking on the first floor, is a very spacious terrace, which serves as an ideal setting for family parties. Tremendous importance has been given to ensure a maximum amount of natural illumination, inside the house, especially those areas designed for communal activities. By depicting the importance of openings in
architecture, as key focal points of a building’s elevation, windows and larger openings are assigned with crucial roles in the use of the building.
The spacious living room features generously spaced arrangements of comfortable sofas, for various ‘ interesting conversations’, and the double height adds to the grandeur of the interiors of the house. The attention given to intricate details is evident when one observes the elaborately carved and sculpted timber works on the roof, eaves and pillars of the house. The puja area had been elegantly designed with a mini pebble court and a beautiful mural work that explains the tale of Nalan and Damayanthi as depicted in the Mahabharata. The stone tiles and the nada with vilakku give it the feel of a mini sanctum within the house.
Factfile
Client: Mr Sai Kumar
Consultants: Design Spectrum ( Structural); BCA Architecture ( MEP, Interior); Ar
Babu Kottekat ( Landscape)
Built- up- area: 6800sq ft
Cost of project: Rs. 7,69,18,765
Year of completion: 2012