Shaijumon, a carpenter and his family had lived in a small house, at Chathannur, Kollam, with just one room for years before moving into their brand–new double-story house. Sunshine often shied away from entering the congested space of this almost dilapidated house. It was the family’s biggest dream to build a comfortable house with all the necessary facilities. However, financial constraints restricted them from realising their dream.
But, Shaiju got his dream dwelling when a few people with hearts of gold joined hands to gift him a house. Crowdfunding was started to help Shaiju build a good house. Some donated building materials while some others offered physical labour free of cost. Besides, there were people who donated huge sums of money too. Ego Design Studio, an architecture firm based in Thiruvananthapuram has designed this house as part of their social responsibility initiative.
There is a paddy field on the east side of the house. The house also faces the east to receive the calming breeze that flows in from the field. Besides, the mesmerizing view of the field is breathtaking. Designed in 1050 sqft, this amazing abode has a living area, dining space, kitchen with a work area, three bedrooms and a balcony. In the beginning, the family only had the budget to build and furnish a 500 sqft house. However, the house ‘grew’ to more than 1000 sqft when kind-hearted people came forward to offer help and support.
There is only a walking path to the house. So, it was quite difficult to transport the construction materials to the plot. Shaijumon himself did all the timber works, adding his personal touch to his house. Besides, his friends who work with him on other sites too came to help Shaiju complete the house. Interestingly, they offered their services totally free of cost.
Only half of the ceiling is cement proofed in order to lower the expenses. Meanwhile, metals have been paved in the remaining area. The family could only get it cement proofed and pave the roofing sheet. Most of the building materials were donated by others.
Lots of double-height spaces have been included in the house. This ensures excellent ventilation, well-lit spaces and an amazing visual connection between the floors.
There are two bedrooms, a bathroom and a balcony on the upper floor.
It is truly impressive that this fabulous house was built on an extremely affordable budget of Rs 10 lakh. This is the perfect example of a ‘growing house’ that could be extended or elaborately furnished as and when the owners have enough money. It was only after moving into the house that the family could arrange money to complete the flooring works.
Among the various factors that helped in keeping a check on the expenses, cement proofing only half of the roof and paving a simple roofing sheet in the remaining area, played a vital role. The walls are built using interlocking bricks that were donated. Meanwhile, old timber has been used for making doors and window panes.
This simple yet charming house teaches a few valuable lessons to those who wish to build their dream dwelling. Affluent families who build luxury mansions could donate some money or building materials for the poor people so that they too could realise their dream of living in a safe and comfortable house. Besides, it would be a great relief for financially backward families, especially since the cost of building materials has been skyrocketing these days.
Shaiju’s family is grateful to everyone who helped them build their brand–new house. They are thrilled that their house has become a model for a great initiative that could be widely promoted.
Project Facts
Location – Chathannoor, Kollam
Area – 1050 SFT
Owner – Shaijumon
Design – Ego Design Studio, Trivandrum
Mob - + 91 98475 96722, +91 9947672960
Budget – Rs 10 lakh
Year of completion – 2021 December
