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Architecture

2025

Located in the serene hills of Alakode, Kannur—opposite the Arangam Shri Mahadeva Temple—this renovation project reimagines a modest family home to enhance spatial quality, light, and livability.

Originally built for a family of four, the house had three rooms clustered around a cramped central space with minimal circulation, poor ventilation, and hardly any room for furniture. Instead of a complete overhaul, the strategy was to retain the structural shell and rethink the shared spaces for better function and flow.

The existing sit-out was merged with the living area, and the kitchen was extended by integrating the work area. To allow better light and ventilation, large windows and openings were introduced. A striking 10x8 ft foldable wooden front door blurs the line between inside and outside, visually extending the living space into the surrounding greenery.

Kannur,Kerala,India

Architects	:	Space Narratives
Area	:	2225 sq. ft.
Year	:	2025
Website	:	https://www.instagram.com/spacenarratives/

Exterior view of Kanjirakol House by Space Narratives

Entrance of Kanjirakol House by Space Narratives

Verandah of Kanjirakol House by Space Narratives

Living room of Kanjirakol House by Space Narratives

A first floor was added to accommodate two new rooms and a flexible common space, allowing the upper and lower floors to share functions. A glass façade supported by a GI structure was paired with traditional sloped Kerala roofing, offering both aesthetic appeal and climate responsiveness.

To bring light and life into the heart of the home, a central courtyard was carved out by cutting through the existing roof. Filled with greenery, it draws sunlight and air directly into the living area, turning the once-dim core into a vibrant space.

Above the first floor, an attic accessible by a spiral stair creates a tranquil retreat for reading, painting, or watching sunsets—an intimate space for leisure and solitude.

Living to Dining view of Kanjirakol House by Space Narratives

Living room of Kanjirakol House by Space Narratives

TV Unit of Kanjirakol House by Space Narratives

Courtyard of Kanjirakol House by Space Narratives

Dining of Kanjirakol House by Space Narratives

The renovation embraced sustainable practices by using locally available materials like laterite stone, which offers excellent thermal insulation and structural strength. Reused clay tiles and salvaged bricks reduced material waste, while repurposed old furniture and steel almirahs gave the interiors character and continuity.

Throughout the project, the original room layout remained mostly untouched, preserving structural stability while enhancing usability. The design focused on unlocking the potential of underused areas and introducing light, airflow, and flexible spaces.

In the end, the house unfolded into what it was always meant to be — a quiet sanctuary of light and breeze, where walls breathe, shadows dance, and every corner speaks gently of belonging. Rooted in earth, open to sky — it became a home not just built, but felt.