Santhosh, an expatriate, is proud to show around his brand new house at his hometown in Palapetty, Thrissur district in Kerala. The owner, who grew up in humble circumstances, had worked hard to go overseas and make a decent living. He wished to build his dream dwelling at his hometown as he wanted a calm and tranquil place of his own where he could relax during the holidays. Santhosh shared his dream and demands with architect Shantilal of COSTFORD as the former wanted a beautiful abode without burning a hole in his pocket. The talented architect deserves applauds for designing such a wonderful house, with all the required amenities, at a very moderate budget of Rs 18 lakh.
The structure is simple and compact too. Interestingly, the house looks like a single storied structure from the front side. The roof has been built as a single unit by adding height. A mezzanine floor has been smartly separated at this double heighted space.
The old house was demolished as time had begun taking a toll on the structure. The family reused most of the furniture and other furnishing items from the old house. The laterite stones, roofing tiles and timber were given a facelift and a fresh coat of polish before using them in the new house. Even the leftover sand from demolishing the old house was used to fill in the foundation of this house.
Designed in 1500 sqft, this simple yet classy abode has a sit out, living and dining areas, kitchen, three bedrooms and multi utility space. Vitrified tiles have been paved on the floor.
Instead of concrete, a unique mixture of sand and lime has been used to plaster the walls. Meanwhile, cashew stain has been rubbed on the walls for the perfect rustic finish. The living – dining areas are arranged in the open halls that is just beside the entrance area. The double height ceiling makes the interiors look and feel spacious and vaster.
The bedrooms have all the facilities including attached bathrooms. The kitchen, meanwhile, is furnished by adding lots of storage spaces.
Among the many factors that helped in keeping a check on the expenses, reusing the old laterite stones, roofing tiles and furniture plays a vital role. The foundation of the new house has been filled using leftover sand from the old structure. The use of concrete is limited. Meanwhile, the walls are built using laterite stones. The mud plastered walls make sure that the interiors have a cool and pleasant ambience. Filler slab technology has been used in the roof.
Project Facts
Location – Palapetty, Thrissur
Plot – 10 cents
Area – 1500 cents
Owner – Santhosh
Design – Shanti Lal
COSTFORD, Thriprayar
Mob – 9747538500
Year of completion – 2020
Budget – Rs 18 lakhs
