Experts say that 95% of the houses and other buildings that are being constructed in Kerala won’t survive even for the next 100 years. It was this study which prompted Dr. Achyut Sankar to save himself from the ever growing concrete jungles and seek refuge in the goodness of a mud house. His charming two storied mud house at Kariavttom, Thiruvananthapuram is in perfect harmony with nature and stands out for its unique look. The cool atmosphere inside the house is refreshing and one wouldn’t sweat even during the blazing summers.
Traditionally, houses in Kerala are constructed as suitable abodes for the future generations as well. Now that the tastes and preferences of small families have changed significantly, those changes are reflected on the houses too. Dr. Achyut Sankar says that each house possesses its own unique soul and it is up to the people to find their own homes which reflect their personalities.
Architect Guruprasad Rane and designer Manasi of the Bhoomija Creations deserve applause for designing such an elegant house which is incredibly close to the nature. The house is constructed using the rammed earth technique where the walls are built by tightly packing loose mud mixture in wooden boxes.
This 1800 sq ft beautiful house comprises of a spacious formal living area, dining space, 2 bedrooms and a kitchen. The spaces that are connected to each other are the highlight of the interiors. The spacious living room is the perfect place for Dr. Achyut Sankar, also a talented singer, to organize exclusive musical evenings or get together. The well and a vegetable garden have been arranged close to the kitchen.
The mud tiles paved on the floor enhances the unique look of the mud walls. Old wood has been recycled for furnishing. The roof in double height provides the facilities of a spacious two storied house. Dr. Achyut Sankar believes that just like the man returns to the mother earth, this house too would become one with the earth, after serving its purpose here.
The designers say that it is easy to find the mud required for the construction from the plot itself. The mud lying at least two feet below the surface is suitable for building purposes. However, the mud from a field or marshy land isn’t suitable for constructing houses as it won’t be firm enough.
They vouch for the strength and durability of the mud houses. Whitewashing the walls would fight mildew and termites to a certain extent. However, pest control treatment would be done before building the walls. The designers say that the mud houses are strong enough to survive for years.
The cost of construction could vary depending upon the area of the house, the quality of the mud, expert laborers, duration of the construction and many other factors.
Project facts
Location – Karyavattom, Thiruvananthapuram
Area – 1800 SFT
Owner – Dr. Achyut Sankar
Designers – Guruprasad Rane and Manasi, Bhoomija Creations, Pattambi
Mob – 9895353291, 9895943158
