It was a few weeks ago that actor Hareesh Kanaran posted pictures of his brand-new house on his social media page. The house had instantly became a viral sensation for its eye-catching designer elements. While some pointed out that the house looked like the iconic Varikassery Mana others were quick to assume that the house must have cost at least Rs 5 crore. With his quintessential laugh, Hareesh shows around his amazing abode in Kozhikode, Kerala.
Hareesh says that the house isn’t newly built, but he has just added an additional floor. Interestingly, the house is named after his mother – Sarojam. The actor calls the house his lucky charm as he believes that he got noticed in the movies and achieved better financial status only after moving into this house.
Many had suggested he purchase a flat in Kochi as it is the hub of Malayalam cinema. However, Hareesh confesses that he cannot enjoy life in a flat as he would feel suffocated. That is when he decided to give a makeover to his old house.
It was the couple’s friend and noted architect Jayan Bilathikulam who designed the house. Hareesh and his wife love the traditional architectural style of Kerala. So, they wanted their house to exude the grand elegance of the historic Varikkassery Mana. However, the actor wanted to get it done on an affordable budget too.
The traditional sit-out, pillars and beautiful carving works looks like they have been crafted in timber. However, they are done in ferrocement. Meanwhile, the tiles that are paved on the floor may look like authentic Athankudi tiles. But, they are ceramic tiles purchased from Gujarat. Roofing tiles that are around one and half centuries old have been paved on the roof of the car porch. They were purchased on affordable rates when an old building was demolished in Kozhikode. Besides, local workers were hired for construction to make communication easier.
The upper floor has been added by strictly following the rules of the Vastusastra. The entrance door opens to the formal living area followed by a dining space, two bedrooms and a kitchen. Meanwhile, two more bedrooms, a living area and a balcony are newly added on the upper floor.
The old house had rooms that were congested. The showcase in the formal living area has been turned into a small door that opens to the dining area. The beautiful ceiling in the living area looks as if it has been crafted in exquisite timber. However, it is done in cement and completed with paint in timber finish.
The photo wall on the ground floor is an interesting feature. Interestingly, framed pictures of special moments with his favorite co-stars adorn this wall. Actors like Jayasurya and Tovino had visited Hareesh’s house. The pictures that were taken then too have a place on the photo wall.
The kitchen in the old house has been turned into a spacious dining area. The ceiling here too is decorated with paint works in timber finish.
The staircase leads to a spacious open hall which is the perfect spot to host small gatherings. The actor plans to set up a home theatre here by installing a projector on one side. There is a small balcony close to the hall. Cool breeze and natural sunshine enter the house if this door is open. Hareesh says that he likes sitting in this balcony to relax, enjoying the beautiful sights of the surrounding nature.
Hareesh says that he misses his house when is at the film locations and eagerly waits to return to his dream abode.
