Tradition joins hands with modernity in this grand Kumbanad mansion

This mesmerizing abode in Kumbanad in Thiruvalla, Kerala, stands out for its enchanting exuberance and authentic traditional style. This double storey house, with its spacious verandha and the elaborate pillars, is sure to excite nostalgia. Meanwhile, Bibi Jacob and Bini Bibi are truly fascinated by their dream dwelling that exudes the elegant charm of traditional Kerala architecture. The sloped roof and the classic designs of the hand railings make this house extremely remarkable.

Noted architect Rameshan Pothuval of RP Design Studio deserves credit for designing such a fabulous abode. Bibi and Bini had clear ideas about how their dream dwelling should look and feel. They wanted their brand new house to be a replica of old Christian ancestral homes. The house stands in the middle of a sprawling 1 acre land. The traditional padipura (gateway), lush green lawns, trees with porches around them and the spacious sopanam (sit out) are all traditional features that make this house a stellar reminiscent of the past.

The rustic charm of the Mangalapuram paving tiles instantly draws attention to the slope roof. Rose wood has been used for the pillars while anjili wood (artocarpus hirsutus) is used as rafters on the ceiling. The spacious sit out and the entrance door fitted with the ornate manichitra thazhu (lock) represents the architectural glory of the bygone era. This majestic mansion has been designed by strictly following the rules of vastusastra. The palatial dwelling that faces the west direction has the entrance door and the back door arranged in a straight line. This ensures excellent cross ventilation in the interiors.

From the sit out, one could enter the elegantly furnished formal living area. The family living area, dining space and the kitchen with work area are part of the ground floor. Meanwhile, there is a home theatre and a long verandah in the upper storey.

The four bedrooms are designed around the dining area. The bath attached bedrooms are all arranged in the ground floor to make communication easier and comfortable between the family members. Instead of modern in – built wardrobes, the bedrooms have old style safes.

The windows are placed at the spots which receives cool breeze the most. The interesting design of the olden style windows is quite amazing. Instead of the traditional nadumuttam, the courtyard in this house is arranged on the side, between the living and the dining areas.

The courtyard is decorated with beautiful indoor plants that grant a splendid hint of greenery inside the house. The stone clad wall adorned with an old wooden art piece make this area look breath taking. The stairway built in teak wood, meanwhile, is just opposite this courtyard.

Interestingly, the chic style of modernity blends well with the traditional style in the interiors. The furniture pieces made in exquisite colonial designs and the modern kitchen are functional and classy. Meanwhile, the bedrooms with old style wooden ceilings have a calming ambience.

The scintillating interiors of this house equally celebrate the classic traditions and the delightful features of modern amenities.

The guests often say that they feel as if they have been drawn into the past when they enter this splendid mansion. Bibi and Bini, who runs a hotel in the Gulf, meanwhile, is thrilled that their dream dwelling acts as a creative bridge between the yesteryear and the modern age.

Project Facts

Location – Kumbanad, Thiruvalla

Plot – 1 acre

Area – 4400 SFT

Owner – Biby Jacob

Design – Ramesh Pothuval

RP Design Studio, Kochi

Mob – 98460 32090

Year of completion – 2020