Sajith’s brand new house at Koratti in Thrissur, Kerala, exudes the mesmerizing charm of traditional architecture by seamlessly overcoming the spatial challenges posed by a small plot. The family had been nurturing unique ideas and interests about their dream dwelling. They were determined to build an eco friendly house that is in sync with nature. Architect Shatilal of Costford, a veteran who has designed countless eco friendly homes across Kerala was roped in to design their house. Nature-friendly materials like laterite stones and mud have been mostly used for construction here. Interestingly, the use of concrete is very limited, making it a perfect model for a beautiful eco-friendly abode.
The slanting roof that is paved with mud tiles and the elegant padipura (traditional gateway) give the house a classy look of a traditional tharavad (household). Designed in 2300 sqft, this amazing abode has a car porch, living and dining areas, courtyard, study area, four bedrooms, and kitchen with an adjacent work area.
The ceiling of the ground floor has been done in the filler slab technology by paving mud tiles in alternate layers. Meanwhile, GI truss roof is installed on the upper floor. Old tiles have been reused after scrubbing them clean. Moreover, bamboo ceiling too has been done beneath the roofing tiles here. Not just the structure, but the gateway and the compound wall too have been built using laterite stones. A unique and indigenous blend of mud, fenugreek and jaggery has been used for plastering. Meanwhile, the exposed laterite stones in some area draw attention as a beautiful design element. Interestingly, a coat of clear emulsion gives a subtle sheen to these laterite stone highlights.
The formal living area is simple yet elegant. In-built furniture with attached storage units is an interesting addition here. The mud-plastered walls grant a rustic charm to the area. Meanwhile, the laterite stone exposed wall has been used as a TV unit. A grand mural painting just above this unit is what draws instant attention.
The glass ceiling above the courtyard brings lots of pleasant sunshine into the house. Meanwhile, a wall here is highlighted with exposed laterite stones. This, along with the figurine of a meditating Buddha exudes an enchanting vibe. A hanging cot too has been arranged here for the family to relax, enjoying the spectacular ambience.
The kitchen is compact and modern. The cupboards are done by installing slabs in ferro cement.
Meanwhile, the bedrooms are simple and have all the required facilities. Lots of windows with colorful panes are an amazing feature here. The sunlight that falls through these colored glasses scatters into myriad beams that illuminate the rooms in rainbow hue.
The elegant balcony is the family’s favorite spot where they spend the evenings. From here, one could enjoy the panoramic view of the surroundings too. A layered window that reminds one of a traditional ancestral home is an eye-catching feature here.
As the house is built mostly using eco friendly materials, the interiors are always cool and pleasant.
The rainwater that falls on the roof is collected in tanks and is then used for well recharging. Besides, the house runs on electricity that is produced by the solar panels that are installed on the roof.
The structure alone was completed on a reasonable budget of Rs 30 lakh. Sajith and his wife Ammu are also social workers who have been busy helping the people during the pandemic outbreak. Impressed by the unique features and incredible facilities of this fabulous house, Sajith and Ammu’s friends too have been expressing interest in this model.
Project Facts
Location – Koratti, Thrissur
Plot – 8 cents
Area – 2300 SFT
Owners – Sajith and Ammu
Designer – SanthiLal
Costford, Thrissur
Mob – 9747538500
Budget – Rs 30 lakhs
