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Abode of Arch by Tales of Design Studio

Architecture

2024

Photographer : Turtle Arts Photography

Fort Kochi, a historic enclave in Kerala, is a vibrant tapestry of cultures and architectural influences, shaped by centuries of colonial presence. Its narrow streets and meandering alleyways are dotted with colonial buildings, art cafes, antique shops, and spice traders, creating a unique socio-cultural setup. Nestled within this dynamic backdrop is the Abode of Arch, a house that thoughtfully blends the region's rich architectural heritage with contemporary design sensibilities.

Situated on a compact 1260 sq. ft. plot with an undulating profile, the Abode of Arch is located in a cluttered residential neighbourhood in Fort Kochi. Bordered by housing developments on three sides and accessed via a southwestern road, the site posed several challenges. Clients envisioned a functional three-bedroom home that captured the essence of Fort Kochi while ensuring privacy and comfort. Their specific request for a predominantly white structure guided the design approach.

Kochi,Kerala,India

Architects : Tales of Design Studio
Area : 1400 sq. ft.
Year : 2024
Website : https://www.instagram.com/tales_of_design

Exterior view of Abode of Arch by Tales of Design Studio


Entrance of Abode of Arch by Tales of Design Studio


Living room of Abode of Arch by Tales of Design Studio

The house's primary form emerges from the intersection of two perpendicular vaulted volumes, establishing strong anchor points and lending the structure a sculptural quality. Colonial arches, vaulted roofs, and grain-rich teak joinery dominate the design language, echoing Fort Kochi's architectural history. The recurring theme of semicircular arches influences every design element—from joinery and roofs to flooring patterns, lighting, and furniture. This unifying motif inspired the house’s name, Abode of Arch.

The house’s spatial planning integrates functionality and aesthetics seamlessly. The use of skylights and strategically placed windows allows ample natural light to penetrate the interior spaces, improving air quality and brightening the home in its dense residential setting. The structure’s off-white exterior is softened by landscaped features, including a lush front garden, a koi pond, and a concrete bench with a custom-designed reading lamp. The entrance portico showcases a textured ground cover created from circular concrete slabs, Bangalore stones, and cobblestones, adding a tactile charm.


Living room of Abode of Arch by Tales of Design Studio


Living room of Abode of Arch by Tales of Design Studio


View from living room of Abode of Arch by Tales of Design Studio

While the house maintains a predominantly white theme, thoughtful accents in shades of peach, purple, and grey provide contrast and visual interest in select areas. The interiors incorporate geometric patterns in flooring, achieved using a mix of Sadarali granite, leather-finished Laporte, terrazzo, and vitrified tiles. Leftover granite is repurposed for countertops and tabletop inlays, reducing material waste and enhancing sustainability.

The furniture and joinery use solid teak wood, including a French balconette and a front door inspired by colonial warehouse designs, further rooting the house in its context.


Dining of Abode of Arch by Tales of Design Studio 02


Dining to Staircase view of Abode of Arch by Tales of Design Studio


Kitchen of Abode of Arch by Tales of Design Studio


Kitchen of Abode of Arch by Tales of Design Studio


Staircase of Abode of Arch by Tales of Design Studio


Detailed shot of staircase of Abode of Arch by Tales of Design Studio


Detailed shot of staircase of Abode of Arch by Tales of Design Studio


Skylight of Abode of Arch by Tales of Design Studio


Skylight of Abode of Arch by Tales of Design Studio


TV Unit of Abode of Arch by Tales of Design Studio


Bedroom of Abode of Arch by Tales of Design Studio


Bedroom of Abode of Arch by Tales of Design Studio


Bedroom 2 of Abode of Arch by Tales of Design Studio


Bedroom 2 of Abode of Arch by Tales of Design Studio


Bar Area of Abode of Arch by Tales of Design Studio


Dusk light exterior view of Abode of Arch by Tales of Design Studio


Ground Floor Plan of Abode of Arch by Tales of Design Studio


First Floor Plan of Abode of Arch by Tales of Design Studio



Tags
house
architecture
interior design
residential architecture
residential interiors
2024
1000 to 2000 sq.ft
india
kerala
kochi
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