Classy, elegant; this Thrissur 'naalukettu' exudes a traditional charm

Dr Pramod and Dr Lavanya are elated to share their experiences of building a traditional home that exudes the classic charm of the Kerala architectural style at Kuttoor in Thrissur district, Kerala. “We had been living in a villa that stood at the same spot. However, as the plot was earlier a quarry, cracks began appearing on the walls of the house and gradually, the structure became weak. So, we demolished that house to build a new one. We purchased the nearby 10 cents plot as well to expand the area,” says the owner.

The family wanted a fabulous abode that would help them forget the unpleasant memories of their old house. They asked designer Ramachandra Menon to design a stellar house that oozes elegance and inspires everyone with positive vibes. They were sure that their dreams could take shape in the traditional architectural style of Kerala.

“I have always wished to enjoy the rains sitting in the inner courtyard. So, the spaces in the house are arranged around the inner courtyard or nadumuttam that has an open ceiling. Besides, the house is designed by strictly following the rules of the vastusastra. More than just a belief, vastu rules are more about filling the interiors with positive energy. This also ensures amazing cross ventilation inside the house. One would experience a pleasant and comfortable feeling as soon as they enter the house,” says the couple.

The roof of the truss is paved with old mud roofing tiles to add a rustic feel to the exteriors. The ceiling is done using old timber as well. Both these features help in reducing the heat inside the house and maintain a pleasant atmosphere.

The house, designed in 2700 sq ft area, has a car porch, sit-out, formal and family living areas, dining space, kitchen and three bedrooms. There is a spacious utility area under the truss roof. This area could be turned into a multipurpose space as well.

The interior spaces are beautifully connected with each other. The traditional wooden pillars and the small wall around the courtyard add an incredible old world charm. The owner has a special inclination to the mesmerizing Chettinad style flooring. Trained workers were brought from Athamkudi to pave the tiles on the floor.

The formal living area and the dining space are furnished minimally but have all the necessary facilities. The bath-attached bedrooms have wardrobe facilities as well.

The kitchen is built without installing any over head cabinets. Instead, cupboards made in plywood line the lower part of the counter. Meanwhile, granite is paved on the counter top.

Expensive timbers like teak wood or mahogany haven't been used for furnishing. Instead, the doors and windows are built using pincoda wood. These aren’t polished to keep their rustic finish. Moreover, iron rods are installed on the windows for added security.

“Our friends and relatives are eager to visit our house and know more about the plan and the designs. The credit for building such a beautiful house goes to designer Ramachandra Menon and contractor Prasanth. We are happy that our new house has helped us move on from the distressing phase of losing our old villa,” say Pramod and Lavanya.

Project Facts

Location – Kuttoor, Thrissur

Plot – 20 cents

Area – 2700 SFT

Owners – Dr Pramod and Dr Lavanya

Designer – Ramachandra Menon

Menon Associates, Aluva

Mob – 94465 44968

Contractor - VK Prasanth