Shukkoor is thrilled to share his experiences of building an eco-friendly abode on an affordable budget at his hometown in Pantheerankavu in Kozhikode district. Most importantly, he is proud that he had designed the house himself, by sticking to his commitment to sustainable housing.
“My native place is at Manakadavu near Pantheerankavu. The Chaliyar River flows near our ancestral home. I grew up watching the long rows of lorries that were used to transport the sand that was mined from the river beds. Eventually, the river became leaner and is only a small water body during the summers. I had decided that if I build a house of my own, I would do it without hurting the earth, river or the nature,” says Shukkoor.
He chose stabilized mud blocks to build the structure as he wanted to reduce the use of concrete as much as possible. The most amazing advantage of it is that concrete isn’t necessary to build walls using these interlocking blocks. Both the interiors and the exteriors are plastered using mud. So, one can enjoy extremely pleasant atmosphere inside the house even during the harsh summers. Shukkoor had sought technical assistance for mud plastering from Earthen Sustainable Habitat which is based in Ramanattukara.
Even though the house looks like a single storey structure from outside, the facilities of double storey has been included inside. The mezzanine floor is an interesting addition. Instead of the GI truss roof that has become very popular these days, traditional wooden rafters have been used in this charming house.
Exquisite Mangalore roofing tiles add a classy elegance to the structure. The area beneath the truss roof could be used as a utility space, study area or a balcony. The ceilings above the dining area and the kitchen have been concrete plastered in order to install the solar panel and to place the water tank.
Designed in 2600 sqft, this amazing abode has a formal and family living area, courtyard, and dining space, kitchen with a work area, three bedrooms, bathrooms, a mezzanine floor and a utility area. As the interiors are designed in double height, concrete walls do not surround the stairway. Instead, vertical steel bars have been erected to support the stairway. The atmosphere inside the house is comfortable during the day as there aren’t many concrete walls here. Meanwhile, the cooler nights are incredibly relaxing. 4 x 2 vitrified tiles have been used for flooring in this house.
The green courtyard that is decorated with beautiful indoor plants is the highlight of the interiors. The open dining area faces the courtyard as the owner wanted to have meals, enjoying the spectacular grace of the courtyard.
An extra bedroom has been built on the mezzanine floor, taking advantage of the double height interiors and the sloped roof. This bedroom is constructed by paving V board on top of the steel truss work. A dressing area, attached bathroom and balcony too have been arranged as part of this bedroom.
The dining hall and the patio that open to the courtyard are the family’s favorite spots. The construction of this fabulous dwelling was completed on an affordable budget of Rs 40 lakh. This indeed is impressive as it would cost over Rs 55 lakh to build a concrete house that has similar facilities.
“We recently moved into our new house that was designed by me. There is no need to switch on the fan always, as the interiors have a comfortable atmosphere. Similarly, lights too aren’t needed during the day as the areas are well lit with natural sun shine. So, I am relieved that the electricity bills wouldn’t burn a hole in my pocket. We feel happy and proud when our friends and relatives shower praises on our brand new house,” smiles Shukoor.
Project Facts
Location – Pantheerankavu, Calicut
Plot – 13 cents
Area – 2600 SFT
Owner and design – Shukkoor C Manappatt
Mob - +91 5539 0466
Year of completion - 2021
