This modern house in Kizhakkambalam captures the essence of traditional architecture

Vipin and Hima’s brand-new house at Kizhakkambalam in Ernakulam, Kerala, is the perfect abode away from the bustle of the city. The couple who are IT professionals in Bengaluru wanted an elegant home in their hometown to seek refuge from the hectic life in the metro. The house features a fabulous fusion of traditional architectural style and modern amenities. The structure has been built as eco-friendly as possible. The earthy tones grant a rustic charm to the elevation. The terracotta roofing tiles, exposed brickwork, and terracotta jali add to the scintillating look of the house.

The brick wall in the sit-out isn’t plastered to match the theme of the house. A circular window adorns the centre of the wall that is painted with a coat of clear emulsion. The view of the beautiful courtyard could be enjoyed through this window.

The house designed in 1800 sqft has a car porch, sit-out, living and dining areas, courtyard, kitchen with an adjacent work area and two bath-attached bedrooms on the ground floor. Meanwhile, there is a bedroom, gym space and a balcony on the upper floor.

A passage is what connects the entrance area with the rest of the spaces in the interiors. The flooring done in exquisite Moroccan tiles adds a regal charm to this area. The entrance door opens to the elegantly furnished formal living area. The furniture pieces here have in-built storage spaces too. Besides, a TV unit also has been arranged in the living area. The full-length sliding UPVC window on one side of the hall opens to the scintillating courtyard.

The staircase, courtyard, dining area and kitchen are part of the spacious hall. The courtyard is the soul of the house and the rest of the spaces are designed around this area. The partially open courtyard has a mesh ceiling to ensure safety. Meanwhile, the presence of indoor plants makes this a spot of enchanting greenery. The courtyard that brings in cool rain showers, golden sunrays and soothing breeze plays a pivotal role in managing the temperature inside the house.

The house stands on an 11-cent rectangular plot. So, a lot of space had to be left as the setback area. But, the setback area too has been made part of the structure with smart and efficient designing. The tall compound wall and the glass roofing make the setback area a significant part of the house. A wash area and a storage space to keep the gas cylinder are arranged here.

The kitchen that has everything within the hand’s reach boasts of all the modern facilities. The cabinets are done in multi-wood with mica finish. A spacious work area too is built as part of the kitchen. A working kitchen, laundry area, a wood fire stove and ironing station are arranged here.

The bedrooms in this house are as regal and luxurious as the ones you see in posh resorts. The side courtyard in the master bedroom is a cosy spot. Meanwhile, there is a bay window and in-built wardrobes in the other bedroom on the ground floor. The fabulous view of the courtyard could be enjoyed from this room.

The terrace has been turned into a multi-utility space. Besides a gym, a working space and a portable pool too are arranged here. The terracotta jali around the terrace area instantly draws attention. Meanwhile, clay tiles are paved on the truss roof here. This is the perfect place in the house to enjoy the lush greenery of the nearby paddy fields.

An estimated budget of Rs 65 lakh was spent for the construction, including the structure and furnishing, of this fabulous abode.

Project Facts
Location – Kizhakambalam, Ernakulam
Plot – 11 cents
Area – 1800 SFT
Owner – Vipin and Hima
Architect – View Point Designs, Thrissur