Hesed by Saleek Ahmed Architecture

Tucked upon the lofty hills of Carmel, Hesed, which alludes to kindness, is an architectural vision located in Pathanamthitta, Kerala, India. The vision originated from the owner's wish to embrace the natural terrain and at the same time offer modern comforts to his joint family. The client’s family consists of 8 members. So, the design was focused on providing enough space for all purposes.

 

Built upon 1213.8 sqm of verdant terrain, this house was placed over an existing plateau in the highest point of the lot, to make best of the views over the hills. With an uneven contour, it was a challenge to develop the site without making any major changes to the topography and nature.

 

Hanging plants suspend a green curtain over the front entrance of the house and protect the main entrance from heat and dust. The house is divided into two levels, a double height living room is designed along with a semi open courtyard in the dining area given for a feel of openness and for augmenting natural cross ventilation on all sides.  A round window in the living room pulls in nature's beauty into the house. 

 

The lower level has three bedrooms, office, living and dining; and the first level has two bedrooms and a reading space. A steel-wood combo staircase and simple wireframe furniture is selected to maintain a sense of lightness. The open book compartments in aquamarine color with two comfy sofas gives the calm and quiet space for the reading. The kids room has a built-in bunk bed with cabinets to utilize storage spaces. Leading off from the first-floor bedroom is the balcony ensuring a panoramic view beyond the misty hills.

 

Natural brick cladding provided on the exterior wall prevents direct sunlight on the wall and thus minimizes heat transfer inside the house. The red brickwork also contrasts with nature’s greenery and gives a rustic living vibe. A sloped roof on top of the concrete slab with louvers in the front and back was constructed for heat reduction. The louvers exhale out the hot air through the air passages.