It would be hard to believe that the mesmerising colonial mansion that stands tall with all its grandeur at Naripatta, near Nadapuram in Kozhikode, Kerala, is the luxurious makeover of an 18-year-old double-storeyed house of Abdullakutty, an NRI. The architects undertook the challenging task of a drastic rejig by retaining the floor area of the old structure. Hence it would be apposite to call it a brand new home rather than terming it a renovated house.
To begin with, a decorative entrance, which is the hallmark of the colonial style, is visible with an imposing front driveway gate made of GI steel supported by two symmetrical pillars on either side. Stone cladding tiles featured on the compound wall only add to the magnificence.
The spacious front yard elevates the palatial building to its full glory. The sloped truss is fixed on top of the flat concreted ceiling to lay clay tiles. Apart from giving the signature colonial appeal, this method has twin advantages - the cavity space on top of the concreted roof insulates the house from heat and at the same time creates an attic space upstairs. The texture-painted huge columns that direct to the sit-out reign supreme, not to mention the dormer windows, are hallmarks of the colonial architecture. The front yard is blanketed by Bangalore Stone, granite and meadows on either side.
The position of the car porch has been tweaked without hindering the curb appeal of the abode, and an expansive front yard greets visitors to the majestic mansion. Besides the car porch, a sit-out, formal living space, family living area, dining room, kitchen, work area, five bedrooms, upper living area, and a balcony are spread across the 8,000 sqft-luxurious house.
A golden staircase with intricate carvings in handrails and newels, using aluminum and alloy, is sure to give a royal experience as you step inside the house. To complement this absolute piece of art, concealed backlights are used to showcase the charm of Italian marbles covering the steps. The most surprising element is the fact that the whole gigantic stairway was precast and installed without any glitches. The false ceiling using teakwood fills the foyer region with an air of elegance.
Another striking point is the double-height ceiling in the dining area that creates a perfect setting for high-impact decor. It also gives a panoramic view of sorts of the 10-seater dining table from the first floor.
Of the five bedrooms, three are on the first floor, and one is for the servants. A touch of luxury stands out in the four spacious bedrooms, and the charm of the head-side wall has been cleverly accentuated using wallpaper, panelling work, and rexin claddings. Bathroom, wardrobe, dressing space and a side table are featured in the bedrooms.
To conclude, the cramped interiors and discomfort of the old house have got a magical transformation, besides giving a visual treat to the visitors.
Project facts
Location: Naripatta, Kozhikode
Plot: 60 cents
Area: 8,000 sqft
Owner: Abdullakutty
Architect: Risal,
Blackboard Architects, Kozhikode
Mobile: 7736110077
Y.C: 2021
