KM Shafi and Sumayya always believed that compact houses are classy and can help in fostering family bonds too. When they decided to build their dream home in the 10 cents plot at Vengara in Malappuram, Kerala, the family had clarity about what they wanted. The countryside is known for its verdant greenery and serene atmosphere. So, they desired a beautiful abode that merges well with the surroundings. However, they insisted that the expenses shouldn’t exceed the estimated budget, pushing them into a financial crisis.
Designed in 1660 sqft, this cost-effective house has a car porch, sit-out, living and dining areas, kitchen with an adjacent work area, three bath attached bedrooms, library and a balcony.
The couple believes in the theory that no matter how charming the house is, those who live in it cannot be happy if the house brings them nothing but financial struggle. So, they were cautious, from the beginning itself, to avoid unnecessary expenses. Alternate building materials have been used here. Interestingly, the use of concrete is meagre in this house. Only one room is concrete-proofed in order to install the water tank above. GI truss roof paved with tiles has been installed over the remaining area. Meanwhile, there is a layer of ceiling tiles beneath this which acts as a designer element.
The walls are constructed using AAC blocks that are cheaper than cement blocks. Moreover, the construction was completed without any delays which helped in staying within the budget.
The interiors are designed in the semi-open style. Meanwhile, the bedrooms are arranged to ensure privacy.
The scintillating nature in the backyard could be enjoyed from the inside. The windows are placed at the right spots to receive a cool breeze. Moreover, the interiors are illuminated with natural sunshine during the day.
Some areas close to the border of the plot weren’t levelled. However, the family wished to maintain the natural layout of the plot. The part of the house facing this side has been built in the cantilever style to enjoy the beautiful nature outside. A library and a balcony that opens to the greenery have been arranged here. Now, this has become the family’s favorite spot. Moreover, the family is happy that they could turn a challenging feature in the plot into a fabulous attribute.
White vitrified tiles that are moderately priced are paved on the floor. This makes the interiors look brighter. Meanwhile, the wash area is highlighted by pasting designer tiles on the wall.
The kitchen is compact and everything is arranged within the hand's reach. Aluminum composite panel sheets are paved on ferro cement slabs to arrange the cabinets. The countertop, meanwhile, is paved with granite. Ferro cement slab wardrobes are arranged in the bedrooms too.
The bedrooms with attached bathrooms are compact and are designed to save space. There are glass windows in all the rooms to bring in the spectacular views of the mountains and the lush greenery.
The construction of the house was completed on an affordable budget of Rs 29 lakh. Interestingly, the construction cost for this house was just Rs 1800 per square foot. The price of the furnishing materials had skyrocketed after the pandemic times. The family says that this was one of the main reasons why they couldn’t stick to the estimated budget.
Shafi says that the mesmerizing nature around the house inspires the writer in him and nurtures his creativity. The family vows that their brand-new house is a haven of happiness and positivity.
Among the many factors that helped in reducing the expenses, using AAC blocks to build the walls played a pivotal role. The ceiling isn’t concrete-proofed. Meanwhile, gypsum plastering is done on the interior walls. Limited use of timber for furnishing helped in keeping a tab on the expenses. Meanwhile, aluminum has been used on the doors and windows. The kitchen cabinets are done using ACP sheets.
Project Facts
Location – Vengara, Malappuram
Plot – 10 cents
Area – 1660 SFT
Owners – KM Shafi and Sumayya
Design – Square Arc Designers, Malappuram
Budget – Rs 29 lakhs
Year of completion - 2023
