The brand new house of Animangalathu Raman Namboothiri, the head priest at the famed Thrissur Vadakkunatha temple in Kerala, exudes the majestic charm of the traditional architecture. The house which has many scintillating features stands regally on a vast expanse of greenery. The family wanted a modern house which emanates the old world charm. The design of this house goes perfectly well with Raman Nampoothiri’s ancestral house which is close by. The house is built by retaining the trees in the plot. These trees provide excellent shade and acts as natural cooling factors which reduces the heat inside the house.
Truss work, paved with mud roofing tiles, is done over concrete flat roof. The slant roof and the unique sit-out add a traditional charm to the exteriors. The roofing tiles were sourced from a site where an old house had been demolished. This gives an effect of graceful ‘quaintness’ to the new house. White hue adorns the exterior walls and a central gopuram or a small tower, highlighted with claddings which have the finish of the laterite stones, adds the perfect contrast. Windows and casement windows which remind one of a ‘tharavadu’ (traditional ancestral home) complete the elevation.
The interiors of this 3300 sq ft house boasts of all the modern facilities. A living area, office space, dining area, two bedrooms and a kitchen with work-area are arranged on the ground floor. Meanwhile, there is an upper living area, two more bedrooms and a utility area in the upper storey. The positions of the rooms were determined by strictly following the vastu rules and also by ensuring the excellent flow of light and air. This helps maintain a pleasant atmosphere inside the house.
Furnishing is done by limiting the use of wood. Furniture, wardrobes and cupboards are made using plywood, mica and veneer. A wall in the living area has been highlighted using wall paper in elegant design.
Vitrified tiles in lighter shades are paved on the floors in the main areas. Saffron coloured tiles are used on the upper storey. The hand railings of the stairway are done in wood and glass. Wash area is arranged beneath the stairway thereby meticulously utilizing the spaces.
All the four bedrooms are bath-attached and are designed by giving prominence to storage facilities. Casement windows have been arranged to enjoy the beautiful greenery outside. Wardrobes too are arranged in all the bedrooms.
A wooden swing/cot is hung at the utility space in the upper storey. This is the favorite spot for the family members to gather. Amazing views of the beautiful nature could be enjoyed from here, while relaxing in the cool breeze. The family celebrated the house warming ceremony of this brand new house in February this year. Those who come to the house to meet Raman Nampoothiri are mesmerized by the elegant features of the house and often ask about it. They have nothing but praise for the great positive energy that could be constantly felt inside the house.
Project facts
Location – Mapranam, Thrissur
Plot – 30 cents
Area – 3300 SFT
Owner – Raman Nampoothiri
Designer – Vineesh Mullappilly
Mob – 9995905153, 9207450480
Year of completion – February 2019