110-year-old Thrissur house renovated, becomes modern yet traditional

Denny Varghese, an expatriate, stays at his grand old ancestral home in Thottipal, Thrissur, Kerala, whenever he is in Kerala for holidays. The 110-year-old house was one of the huge and ‘modern’ abodes during the olden days. However, Denny decided to dismantle the house and build a new one as the structure was too old and didn’t have modern facilities.

Denny approached architect Santilal of CostFord in Thriprayar to prepare the plan for the new house. Santilal visited the site and examined the old structure. He found out that the structure was still sturdy and many furnishing materials were in good condition to be reused. The architect then convinced the owner to renovate the house by adding more facilities instead of knocking off the amazing structure.

The old rooms were smaller and didn’t have enough supply of fresh air and light. The spatial limitations were overcome by rearranging the interiors. More windows have been installed to ensure amazing supply of natural light and cool breeze.

This fabulous abode, designed in 2532 sq ft area has a car porch, sit-out, living and dining areas, four bedrooms and kitchen with a work area. The rooms in the upper storey are retained without making too many changes.

Two bedrooms, kitchen and a dining area have been newly added in this house. The old red oxide flooring got replaced with vitrified tiles.

The walls of the old house were made in soil. However, new walls in laterite stones have been added. Meanwhile, they are enhanced with mud plastering to retain its old world charm. The ceiling, doors, windows, some furniture pieces and roofing tiles have been reused which helped in keeping a check on the expenses. Interestingly, around 90% of the old roofing tiles were in good condition to be reused on the new structure too.

This mesmerizing house has been given a modern makeover without actually losing its traditional charm. The most amazing highlight of this splendid abode that got a new lease of life through amazing planning and smart designs is that the renovation works were completed on a moderate budget of Rs 21 lakh.

Project Facts

Location – Thottipal, Thrissur

Area – 2532 SFT

Owner – Denny Varghese

Design – Santilal

CostFord, Thriprayar

Mob – 9747538500

Budget – Rs 21 lakhs