Nestled in one of Kerala's best rural backdrops, Wadakkancherry, this piece of work was commissioned by a retired loco pilot. After a career spanning three decades as a loco pilot, a job surrounding locomotive engines, the client desired to enjoy his life post-retirement with his family in a home that he described as peaceful, pleasant, and close to nature. a place where he could live the rest of his life at his own pace, living each moment as it came. This is how the project was conceived. The client had emphasised his need for tranquil spaces throughout the building for contemplation, a sit-out area to spend the afternoons with his family, in addition to all other common residential spaces.
The site has a tranquil background since it is located in a rural area. The idea was to cultivate this positive aspect of the site and carefully weave it around the building. The residence was conceived as a place. The site's rural setting favoured the creation of a serene and tranquil atmosphere. But it was challenging to harness ample natural light into the building interior due to the presence of tall trees in the immediate surroundings of the site. Moreover, most fenestrations faced the boundary walls due to the site's linear shape and the residence being configured along it.
By taking into account the elucidation provided by the client and site constraints, the design for the residence came up with a mix of the traditional Kerala architectural style and the contemporary architecture style, the former more expressed in terms of aesthetics and the latter in terms of function. The design incorporates traditional features of Kerala architecture style like the nadumuttam (central courtyard), poomukham (outer verandah), pitched terracotta tile roofing, and wood as the primary material, which can be seen throughout the residence.
By taking the first step into the residence, a cosy sit-out is designed in such a manner that the sit-out encompasses nature. The wooden seating is laid out, and the pillars are made from polished palm trees found locally, and this long sit-out also serves as a foyer for the house.The site's existing well was incorporated into the courtyard as an artifact, where the courtyard is located next to the sit-out.
Moving on into the voluminous spaces, the home opens up to a spacious, double-height living area where the family spends most of their time. By taking the site into consideration and the client’s requirements, a linear courtyard incorporating indigenous tropical plants was placed between the living space and the boundary wall, and by adding a skylight, natural light was introduced indirectly into the living area.
As one moves from the living room to each other space, each space defines its own character and level of privacy. The features of traditional Kerala architecture are mixed with contemporary architectural style in such a manner as to provide a semi-open kitchen, a breakfast counter, and an integrated living and dining space. The colour palette chosen for the spaces was neutral shades such as white, and paintings, custom-made furniture, plants, and athangudi tiles for flooring are incorporated into the design to create juxtaposition for each space. The elevation is clad with laterite stones. The large circular window in the front adds to the aesthetics of this beautiful home.
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