A cost effective Manjeri house that celebrates traditional architecture

Suneesh and Greeshma had quite a lot of demands and preferences when they approached noted architect Vajid Rahman to draw the plan for their dream abode. They wanted a beautiful house that exudes the unique charm of traditional architecture. Meanwhile, they weren’t ready to compromise on the amenities and were clear about the budget as well. Within a few months, a fabulous abode that perfectly suits their interests and likes took shape on the 8 cents plot at Manjeri in Malappuram district in Kerala.

The structure has been built using locally sourced laterite stones. A part of the outer wall has only been given a coat of clear emulsion without cement plastering. The GI truss roof is in double layers and is paved with regular mud roofing tiles. Meanwhile, the double height windows are made in GI and aluminum. The elevation is quite fancy and acts as an interesting design feature as well.

There is a sit-out, living and dining areas, pooja space, pantry, kitchen and two bedrooms in the ground floor. Meanwhile, the upper storey has only a bath attached bedroom and an adjacent balcony. The house designed in 1627 sqft is elegant and chic. The double height ceiling and the multiple openings bring lots of natural light into the interiors.

Premium ceramic tiles have been used for flooring in this house. The eye-catching furniture pieces that adorn the formal living area are in rub wood. Meanwhile, the TV unit has been designed as multipurpose furniture. Besides the TV panel, it could be used as a showcase as well. The pebble court, greenery and the skylight make the living area the soul of the house. Sunlight comes in through the glass panels that are paved on the roof, illuminating the interiors with golden sunshine.

The dining area and the pantry are designed in the open concept. The simple dining table features the standard combination of wood and glass. Meanwhile, the wall - mound wash area saves space. The full length glass wall is the highlight here. The walls don the pleasant olive green hue that adds the perfect contrast here. The pantry area features aluminum and granite. There is a window opening here to transfer food from the kitchen to the dining table. The pantry could be used as a quaint breakfast counter as well.

The guest bedroom and the pooja space are just beside the dining area. Interestingly, the stairway made in GI and wood begins in the dining space. The stairway is compact and saves a lot of space and money as well. The common bathroom is arranged just beneath the stair area. The stair leads to the upper storey bedroom and the adjacent balcony. Full length aluminum wardrobes are smart additions in the bedrooms.

The double height ceiling makes the kitchen look incredibly vaster. The counter top and the cabinets are done in aluminum. Moreover, there are lots of storage spaces and cupboards in this chic kitchen.

The construction of this beautiful dwelling, that has all the facilities required for an ordinary family, was completed on a moderate budget of Rs 27 lakh. Using locally sourced building materials and limiting the use of concrete have significantly helped in reducing the construction costs.

Project Facts

Location – Malappuram, Manjeri

Plot – 8 cents

Area – 1627 SFT

Owners – Suneesh and Greeshma

Designer – Vajid Rahman

Heirarchitects, Manjeri, Malappuram

Budget – Rs 27 lakhs

Year of completion – 2020

Pictures – Akhin Komachy