Ancestral house in Kozhikode gets a new life during the lockdown

The pandemic and the subsequent lockdown deserve credit for the revival of this century-old traditional household that was in a dilapidated state. Owner Jihad Hussain says that they had decided to dismantle the old tharavad house that stands in the same plot of his house in Azhinjilam in Kozhikode, Kerala. However, their plans had toppled when the lockdown was announced due to the pandemic.

During the lockdown period, the family realized that there wasn’t enough space in their house for the couple to work and for the children to attend their online classes. That is when they thought about giving the old house an appropriate facelift.

The old tharavad (ancestral house) was revived without dismantling or adding too many features. Instead, it was given a makeover using simple restoration techniques. The classy furnishing that retains the old world charm is the highlight of this house.

The old house had a sit-out and three small rooms. Two rooms have been joined to make it a spacious room. The old oxidized flooring has been replaced with cement flooring. Meanwhile, a pantry space too has been newly added beside the kitchen. The house didn’t have any furniture in it. So, new pieces that matched the interiors were bought from the antique shops. Moreover, the old wooden ceiling has been given a fresh coat of polish. Now, the old house has perfectly transformed into a spacious office space and a study area.

As there is a traditional ghat in front of the house, the family has plans to turn it into a home stay in the future. The house is surrounded by lush greenery, beautiful hills, coconut orchard and an organic vegetable garden. The family, meanwhile, is thrilled that the lockdown has helped them realize the incredible value of their traditional tharavad house.

Project Facts

Location – Azhinjilam, Calicut

Plot – 70 cents

Area – 1200 SFT

Owner – Jihad Hussain

Design – Nazia Tak

The Area, Calicut

Email – naziahani@gmail.com

Year of completion – 2020