Living room of Earthbound Apartment by Inspiration Collective
Living room of Earthbound Apartment by Inspiration Collective
Since this was a remodel in an existing, lived-in apartment, there were several logistical challenges that had to be carefully addressed. The primary difficulty was the limited time-frame and the inconvenience caused by construction activities. Hammering and major structural work could not be carried out due to the disruptions it would cause, so the approach had to be incredibly sensitive and considerate to the residents' daily life.
Our solution was to plan the remodel in phases, carefully selecting areas that could be worked on without disturbing the flow of daily life. We also focused on a "retrofit" approach, making small but impactful changes rather than gutting entire spaces. This allowed us to preserve the existing structure of the apartment while introducing the desired design elements.
The flooring, which was a key aspect of the design, was installed in stages, with minimal demolition. We opted for wooden flooring in natural finishes, using local companies that specialized in sustainable, high-quality flooring. The wooden floors were complemented by the use of coloured oxide finishes on walls, which added a contemporary feel while tying in the natural palette of the space.
Living room of Earthbound Apartment by Inspiration Collective
Dining of Earthbound Apartment by Inspiration Collective
Dining of Earthbound Apartment by Inspiration Collective
One of the most important considerations during the remodel was the promotion of local craftsmanship. We wanted to ensure that the apartment celebrated the rich heritage of Kerala by incorporating locally made pieces wherever possible.
•Wooden Furniture: We sourced teak furniture from local manufacturers, who crafted each piece with attention to detail and quality. From custom-built dining tables to intricately designed chairs and shelves, the furniture pieces added both functional value and aesthetic richness to the apartment. The warmth of the teak complemented the stone and oxide finishes, creating a cohesive and inviting atmosphere throughout.
•Bell Metal Artefacts: Custom bell metal artefacts, a craft native to Kerala, were integrated into the apartment's decor. These timeless pieces were chosen to serve as statement items—vases, sculptures, and light fixtures—that not only added a touch of elegance but also highlighted the craftsmanship of local artisans.
•Banana-fibre Art and Cane Wardrobes: To add a unique, local touch to the interior, we incorporated art made from banana fibres, a sustainable material that speaks to the region's natural resources. In addition, cane was used in the design of wardrobes and storage solutions, bringing an element of lightness and texture to the space.
Dining of Earthbound Apartment by Inspiration Collective
The design execution focused on creating seamless transitions between spaces while highlighting each material's unique qualities. The wooden floors were laid out in large panels, with natural finishes that allowed the rich grain of the teak to take centrestage. The coloured oxides were applied in a way that enhanced the natural textures of the stone and wood, creating a harmonious balance between the organic and the polished.
The living and dining areas were the focal points of the remodel, where the interplay of stone, wood, and oxides created a dynamic environment. The use of local materials for furniture and artefacts enhanced the sense of place, making the space feel deeply connected to its surroundings. The large windows, framed by custom teak wood shutters, allowed for ample natural light to flood the interior, enhancing the colours and textures of the materials.
Kitchen of Earthbound Apartment by Inspiration Collective
Kitchen of Earthbound Apartment by Inspiration Collective
Kitchen of Earthbound Apartment by Inspiration Collective
Pooja Area of Earthbound Apartment by Inspiration Collective
Bedroom 1 of Earthbound Apartment by Inspiration Collective
In the bedroom, cane wardrobes and wooden furnishings were combined with subtle oxidized wall features, creating a tranquil and serene environment. The addition of banana fibre art pieces on the walls added a touch of lightness and modernity to the space.
Bedroom 1 of Earthbound Apartment by Inspiration Collective
Bedroom 1 of Earthbound Apartment by Inspiration Collective
Bedroom 2 of Earthbound Apartment by Inspiration Collective
Bedroom 2 of Earthbound Apartment by Inspiration Collective
Bedroom 2 of Earthbound Apartment by Inspiration Collective
Bedroom 3 of Earthbound Apartment by Inspiration Collective
Bedroom 3 of Earthbound Apartment by Inspiration Collective
Study Room of Earthbound Apartment by Inspiration Collective
The remodel of this apartment was a delicate balance of honouring the past while embracing the present. By using wood, coloured oxides, and stone in innovative ways, and by promoting local craftsmanship, we were able to create a home that feels both contemporary and timeless. The project was not just about aesthetics—it was a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of Kerala, brought to life through carefully selected materials and thoughtfully designed spaces.
Despite the challenges posed by working in an existing, lived-in space, we were able to transform the apartment into a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. The integration of local furniture, artisanal pieces, and sustainable materials not only enhanced the design but also supported local businesses and craftsmanship. In the end, theapartment became a space that was as much about the materials it was built with as the stories and traditions they represented.
Plan of Earthbound Apartment by Inspiration Collective
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