Venugopal’s splendid mansion at Karuvannur in Thrissur district, Kerala is an architectural marvel that blends the elegant features of the traditional style with the chic western amenities. The owner, who lives in the dry weather of the Gulf, has always wished to own a beautiful abode surrounded by lush greenery, pristine nature and amazing river. This palatial mansion was designed by noted architect PKR Menon who has many fabulous buildings to his credit.
The beautiful Karuvannur River that flows behind the house makes the surroundings an idylic locale. So, the house dons unique looks on both the sides. The backside which opens to the fabulous views of the river is as amazingly designed as the front side that boasts of elegant features and an aesthetically done landscape. Earlier, the flood water used to gush into the plot during the monsoon. So, the plot has been raised in two levels to avoid flooding when the river gets bulkier during the heavy rains.
The owner wanted the exteriors of the house to stand out. That is why the designer decided to go for a European theme that shines against the enchanting beauty of Kerala’s countryside. Colorful tiles have been paved on the sloped roof that suits the tropical climate of Kerala. Cement textured walls and the beautiful French windows grants a touch of western elegance to the elevation. It would be right to say that the house has been designed to complement the impeccable mood of the flowing river. From the vast sit out in the backside, one could enjoy the mesmerizing view of the river. The curvy windows, meanwhile, welcomes the cool breeze into the house.
The swimming pool is in the backside facing the river. This gives the feeling of an infinity pool that is usually seen in swanky resorts.
A foyer in double height is what leads to the interiors of the house. This makes the spaces look extremely vaster. A family living area is arranged as part of the foyer and the TV unit is installed here.
Designed in 3000 sqft, this spectacular mansion has a car porch, foyer, formal and family living areas, dining space, kitchen with a work area, five bedrooms, upper living area, balcony and an open terrace. Interestingly, the vast interiors feel like they are extremely spacious and roomy than it actually is.
Each area has been uniquely designed to make it look special. For instance, the formal living area has been designed in the Italian theme. Meanwhile, the custom made furniture truly reflects the taste and interests of the family members. Cushioned couches in eye catching green and yellow color theme, highlighted walls and elegant lighting add to the overall look of this area.
The formal living area, designed in the royal colonial theme, is incredibly classy. Adding a twist, this area is arranged below the floor level. Furnished in beautiful combination of purple and lighter shades, this area is where exquisite art pieces and other décor which were collected by the family members from around the world have been exhibited.
Vitrified tiles in white and wooden finish are paved on the floor. Meanwhile, Italian marble is used on the steps in the stairway. The dining area faces the river and a wall here is highlighted using wall paper with floral designs. A book shelf has been installed beneath the stairway to ensure efficient usage of spaces. An in – built writing table completes this area. The stairway, meanwhile, leads to the upper living area, balcony and the bedrooms. All these areas have been designed in a way which allows the family to enjoy the magical beauty of the river.
The modern island kitchen is smaller to make maintenance easier as the family is at home only for the holidays. The cupboards are done in white paint finish. The counter top is paved with Korean stone. A quaint pantry counter and in – built fridge and oven is the other facilities in the kitchen.
The bedrooms have huge glass windows that open to the amazing views of the river. The bath attached bedrooms have wardrobes, dressing units and sitting spaces too. The curtain fittings and the walls don beautiful pastel shades that make the rooms look pleasant and comfortable.
This house, with its remarkable features, perfectly reflects an expatriate’s love and nostalgia for his homeland. The family is proud and joyous that their dream dwelling has now become the talk of the town.
Project Facts
Location – Karavannur, Thrissur
Plot – 20 cents
Area – 3000 SFT
Owner – Venugopal Menon
Architect – PKR Menon and Associates, Tripunithura
Ph – 0484 2781668
Year of completion – 2020
