Unbound Architecture designed 'SHILA-the residence' in Kothamangalam using Glass Fibre Reinforced Gypsum(GFRG) developed at IIT Madras and adhered to all traditional planning concepts in the region, even including vernacular techniques to increase the comfort of the internal spaces. Properties of the panels include significant thermal insulation, faster construction, cost-effectiveness, and more strength and durability than conventional masonry techniques.
Concrete slabs were replaced with wooden slabs except in the bathroom areas on the first floor resembling the old architectural elements from traditional homes.
The joinery between these walls and the wooden slabs was not done before and was developed exclusively for this project through extensive studies and discussions with local carpenters.
A college professor, his wife, a dermatologist, and their three school-going kids, along with their grandparents, wanted this house to represent their ancestral home with traditional elements of Kerala architecture but still incorporate all modern elements, functions, and spaces.
The house is planned around a central courtyard, with spaces on all four sides serving different functions yet focused toward the courtyard. These spaces are arranged based on traditional planning concepts in Kerala, which primarily focus on the climatic aspects, both at the micro and macro level.
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