Unnikrishnan and Soumini wanted a beautiful house in the countryside to spend their life after retirement in a peaceful ambience. The couple roped in noted architect Shyamraj to design their dream abode at Thamarappilly near Manalur in Thrissur, Kerala.
The house named ‘Harsham’ stands in the centre of a spacious plot. ‘Harsham’ features the classic elements of traditional Vastusastra and has all the facilities to enjoy a peaceful life, away from the buzz of the city. Moreover, the couple who loves greenery and organic farming has enough space in the yard to indulge in their favourite activity.
Beautiful mango trees, with thick foliage, offer shade while drawing instant attention. The house basks in the glory of such fabulous greenery that surrounds it. The yard and the garden have been designed in such a way to make the interiors cosy and warm.
The house and the surrounding nature look like perfect scenery in an impressionist painting. The sit-out feels cool as it is under the shade of the mango tree. Meanwhile, leftover clay tiles, have been polished and paved in the front yard in unique designer pattern.
The pond close to the sit-out improves the ambience of the front yard. The windows and doors in the house have been designed to suit the modern age. Meanwhile, old timber is reused to exude an old-world charm.
The living areas, dining space and the kitchen are open and spacious. The dining area has an extension that is used as a utility space. The couple mostly eats at the quaint table in the kitchen when they are alone. However, when their children and grand children come, the family arranges the dining table in the spacious courtyard.
The custom-made furniture pieces are extremely attractive. Meanwhile, the wooden ceiling grants a classy ambience to the interiors. Minimalism seems to be the basic theme as it is quite evident in the incredible furnishing, furniture, flooring works and even the colour palette. Moreover, the spaces are arranged to make maintenance and cleaning easier for the old couple.
The beautiful courtyard is the soul of this house. The long windows and the amazing jali works let natural light and cool breeze into the interiors. A layer of protective netting has been fixed over the jali for additional safety. The rays of sunshine that come in through the small glass openings create a fabulous chiaroscuro of shadows on the walls.
The bay windows in the three bedrooms in the house are amazing additions. There are two bedrooms on the ground floor and one on the upper floor. The bay windows that open to the mesmerizing nature outside are perfect spots to relax. The modern kitchen is separated using a small partition. The open spaces allow good view of the entrance area from the kitchen. Meanwhile, the wash area is arranged in the dining area, close to the kitchen.
A glass bay window could be seen at the first landing of the staircase. From here, you could enjoy the fabulous view of the charming mango tree. The hand railing of the staircase is designed as a continuation of this bay window. The balcony features a unique design in order to ensure connectivity between both floors. The owner says that he enjoys reading and spending time here. The walls with cement finish look rustic.
‘Harsham’ stands out for its harmony of scintillating greenery, cool water bodies, abundant supply of fresh air and natural light as well as spectacular design elements. The pictures of this splendid abode have already become viral on social media.
Project Facts
Location – Manalur, Thrissur
Owners – Unnikrishnan and Soumini
Architects – Shyamraj Chandroth and Aziya Mondal
Viewpoint Designs
