Vaisakh and Aswathy owned a small plot at Kazhakkoottam, the IT hub of Thiruvananthapuram where land prices are sky-high. However, their dream to build a house did not materialize for some time as several designers were not willing to suggest a plan for the L-shaped plot. Moreover, the width of the plot gradually decreased from the front to the back, making many designers unwilling to take up the project. Finally, designer Manoj took up the challenge, and the couple’s dream to live in their own house on the same plot was realized.
The elevation of the house has a box shape in order to enable maximum utilization of space on the narrow plot. From outdoors, the house has a rustic cement finish look, which was acquired with texture paint. A terracotta ‘jali’ window also gives a unique appearance. Such a window allows free flow of air to the interiors. A screen is installed behind the ‘jali’ to prevent insects from entering the house.
On the ground floor are a sit-out, living and dining areas, a courtyard, a kitchen, a work area, and two bedrooms with attached bathrooms. One bedroom, a bathroom and an open terrace comprise the first floor. The total area of the house is 1750 sq ft.
According to Vaisakh and Aswathy, the design has incorporated all their wishes even within the limitations presented by the shape of the plot. For instance, the interior space has been demarcated into public and private zones, which are connected by corridors. As all rooms and windows are designed according to the East-facing plot, there is always sufficient air circulation and light in the interiors.
Another highlight of the house is the courtyard, which also brings natural light into the narrow rooms. Moreover, the dining area feels large, as it is built in double height. Such a design has the additional advantage of providing cross-ventilation in the dining area.
The kitchen area is kept at a minimum to enable ease of working. Cupboards are built with marine plywood and there is a work area attached to the kitchen. The biggest advantage of the design is that the limitations of the plot are not visible in the spacious interiors.
Project facts
Location – Kazhakkoottam, Thiruvananthapuram
Area – 1750 sq ft
Owners – Vaisakh, Aswathy
Design – Mcube Designs, Thiruvananthapuram
