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Architecture

01-07-2026

Text provided by the Architect

The Doll House is set within a modest 10-cent plot in the historic town of Kodungallur, Kerala. Designed for a family with diverse aspirations, a marine engineer husband, a doctor wife, their young daughter Evana, and their parents, this home is a reflection of the unique lifestyles and dreams of its inhabitants.

From the outset, the brief was as unique as the family itself. The husband envisioned a mid-level working space, the wife yearned for a low-maintenance courtyard, and the parents sought a gathering space for prayer meetings. Adding to this mix was little Evana, who wanted her home to feel like a delightful fusion of a Barbie house and Peppa Pig’s playful world.

The site posed its own set of challenges and opportunities. Flanked by an east-side entry with some access constraints, an additional entry on the west, and a vacant north-side plot inviting in views and wind, the design evolved to make the most of its surroundings. The south-facing house strategically draws in light and ventilation, creating a space that feels airy and open despite its modest footprint.

Kodungallur,Kerala,India

Architects	:	Studio Njatla
Area	:	2700 sq. ft.
Year of Completion	:	2025
Website	:	https://www.instagram.com/studionjatla_architecture/

Exterior view of The Doll House Residence by Studio Njatla

Lilly Pond Courtyard Foyer of The Doll House Residence by Studio Njatla

Living to Dining view of The Doll House Residence by Studio Njatla

The residence unfolds across three distinct bays. The western bay houses the private quarters, bedrooms and bathrooms, while the eastern bay serves as the vibrant social core with the living, dining, and kitchen spaces. The central bay, however, is where the magic happens. This open circulation zone includes a dramatic entry, a staircase, and a mid-level landing that doubles as an office with a striking circular bay window.

The ground floor is designed to transform effortlessly, accommodating up to 50 people for group prayers by merging the living and dining areas with the entrance lounge. A small lily pond at the entrance greets visitors, setting a tranquil tone and gently guiding circulation through the house. Sliding and folding doors on the north and east sides of the courtyard blur the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, offering a seamless flow of space.

Dining of The Doll House Residence by Studio Njatla

Staircase of The Doll House Residence by Studio Njatla

The house’s architectural form is a whimsical abstraction of a dollhouse, with sloping roofs at varying levels creating dynamic interior volumes. The first-floor features two bedrooms, a balcony, and a compact laundry space. These spaces are punctuated with playful design elements, mezzanine nooks in the living areas and bedroom interiors that evoke the charm of a toy house, much like Evana’s dream home.