Anoop and Arya’s brand new house in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, after winning the best architecture prize at the prestigious World Architecture Award, is now a topic of discussion in the global architectural fraternity. Architect Srijith Srinivas, who designed the house, speaks about this fabulous house that is popularly known as the ‘brick house’.
“The family had clear ideas about their dream dwelling. They wanted to try a blend of traditional and contemporary architectural styles. Besides, they needed a consulting room without disturbing the privacy of the house and open spaces with abundant supply of natural light and air as well. All these features have been included in this house in a unique and spectacular way,” says the architect proudly.
Designed in 4250 sq ft area, this mesmerizing abode has a sit-out, formal and family living areas, dining space, courtyard, five bedrooms, kitchen with a work area and a consulting room as well. The guest bedroom and the consulting room are built separately to ensure enough privacy in the house.
The brick walls that aren’t plastered with concrete are the highlight of the house. Instead of paint or emulsion, stone cladding has been applied on these walls to add sheen on it. Waterproofing too has been done to prevent leaks and dampness. The interiors are designed in the open style by avoiding unnecessary walls. The brick jalis on the courtyard wall play a vital role in filling the interiors with fresh air and pleasant sunshine.
The tastefully furnished formal living area often enchants guests. The exposed concrete ceiling lends a rustic charm to this area. A swing has been hung in the adjacent courtyard that has a double height ceiling.
The dining table has bench on one side. One could easily get to the beautifully decorated courtyard from the dining space. Besides, lots of air and light enter the house through this door.
Arya is a trained dancer who enjoys practising regularly. Themes and motifs related to dance could be seen as decorative features in this house. The dance shapes done in CNC cutting, on the headboard wall in the master bedroom is a fine example of it. A sliding glass door is what separates the courtyard in the master bedroom. This area is decorated with indoor plants, adding hint of greenery here. All the bedrooms are bath attached with in – built wardrobe facilities.
The house boasts of many unique and innovative features that are eco-friendly. The rain water that falls on the roof is stored in a rain water harvesting tank. Well recharging facilities too have been arranged here. The house is run on the electricity produced by the solar panels that are installed on the roof. Besides, there is a bio gas plant too to process the organic wastes.
More than just a structure to live in, the house has been designed as a ‘living’ feature that actually communicates with those who live in it. It is this unique concept that fetched the international award for this splendid house. The brick house has already been featured in many international architecture magazines. This phenomenal house has indeed made Kerala shine globally.
Project Facts
Location – Thiruvananthapuram
Area – 4250 SFT
Owners – Dr. Anoop and Dr AR Arya
Architect – Srijith Srinivas
Srijith Srinivas Architect, Thiruvananthapuram
Mob - 9447092404
