Construction costs have been sky rocketing these days, which leave ordinary people, struggle to build their dream dwellings. But those who are willing to bear heavy financial burden through borrowing should take a cue from Reji Thomas who built his dream home in Chevayoor, Kozhikode, Kerala with a budget that was affordable for him. When the construction of the structure was completed, Reji made it clear to designer Abdul Kareem that he would pay not a single penny more than what was there in the budget, to furnish and decorate the interiors.
Though limited by the budget, Abdul Kareem designed the interiors without compromising on the quality of the materials and also the overall look of the house. The interiors, designed in the contemporary style, exude elegance of minimalism. Based in Kozhikode, Abdul Kareem had designed the interiors of this already constructed house by giving preference to elegance, that too, by not exceeding the allotted budget. The interiors of the 2500 sq ft house, that stands tall in a 10 cents plot, was given a grand makeover within two months.
Serene interiors
Minimalism is given prominence in the interiors that has all the modern facilities. The owner wanted the interiors to reflect the amazing bond and warmth the six members of the family shares. The sit-out, living and dining areas, two bedrooms and a kitchen with work area are arranged on the ground floor. Meanwhile, there is an upper living space, a passage, two bedrooms, balcony and a party area on the first floor. The main area of the house comprises of living and dining spaces and the stair area as well. The designs follow a unified pattern which suits both exteriors and interiors.
Natural lights
The first step of the makeover was to light up the interiors, which looked congested and dark. The positions of the windows were altered to bring in lots of natural light to illuminate the interiors. The lighter shades of hues, painted on the walls, make the indoors look brighter. The sunlight which falls on the central position of the house gets dispersed and lights up even the corners. White color dominates the interiors to make the spaces more visible and attractive. It is the beautiful LED lights which make the interiors shine at night.
Shining walls
The wall beside the dining area, highlighted using a wall paper in the design of a rugged brick wall, is a stunning feature. The four bedrooms in the house are designed in unique themes. The two upstairs bedrooms for children are decorated using beautiful wall papers. White adorns the daughter’s room while the son chose his favorite lavender hue. It is the classy color palette, unique ceiling patterns and the eye-catching head boards which make each bedroom stand out. The rooms are arranged by ensuring maximum privacy. The spaces are designed to facilitate excellent ventilation as well.
It is the passage above the dining area, which allows communication between the two floors. There is an overview from this passage to the floor below. The false ceilings highlight the minimal theme that is followed in the entire house. The ceiling works are done using gypsum, mica and plywood. This helped significantly reduce the cost of construction. Classic colour combinations and stylish patterns that are never outdated are mostly used in the interiors of this mesmerizing house. A movable partition in wood separates the dining and the living areas. The handrails of the stairway are done in steel and wood. The TV unit is set up in such a way that one gets a view from the dining area as well.
It is the modern and classy furniture which make the spaces functional and elegant. The interiors aren’t overcrowded with furniture or other decor. Custom-made furniture that suits the requirements of the family adorn the inner spaces. The pieces of furniture arranged in the common areas are done in plywood, while the dining table and the cots are made of irul wood.
Majestic ivory
The classy shade of ivory dominates the kitchen which has all the modern facilities. It also helps maintenance easier. The kitchen cabinets are made of multi-wood and granite is paved on the counter top. The designer had personally selected the bed sheets, paintings, curios, light and bathroom fittings that decorate the various interiors spaces. This not only added a touch of personal care, but also ensured quality.
Project facts
Location – Chevayoor, Kozhikode
Owner – Reji Thomas
Designer – Abdul Kareem, Abdul Kareem and Associates, Chalappuram, Kozhikode
Ph – 0495 – 4024411, 8089604621
Interiors budget – Rs 8 lakhs
