Unlike the early times, the construction of a brand new house is sure to cause some financial woes for a middle class family. One of the major reasons for it is the exorbitant rate of construction materials like the iron rods, building blocks and cement. However, congesting the interiors with unnecessary furniture or going for over the top gaudy furnishing, just to show off, too could be reasons why the expenses sometimes skyrocket.
Around six decades ago, the traditional Keralite house required a thulasi thara (sacred platform where holy basil is grown), a kitchen on the east side and a granary inside the house to store the grains. But, now, people seldom think about what their requirements are; instead they are eager to add gimmicky designs just to impress the onlooker. More than a comfortable place to live in, homes on many occasions, in the modern age, have become structures to show off one's vanity.
Earlier, the middle class and the upper class homes had rafters to support the roof which was then paved with mud tiles. Another method was to use wooden planks to construct the ceiling. When the hurudees blocks came, it added more aesthetics and charm to the interiors. The introduction of reinforced cement was indeed a revolutionary change in the construction sector and it soon took over the traditional methods.
Impressive transformations have happened in flooring and the color palettes too. Cow dung coated floors gave way to mud tiles, oxidized flooring and mosaic. However, these too have now gone into oblivion. Glossy tiles, expensive marble and granite are the most sought after items when it comes to flooring works. Even if the family doesn’t have the budget to pave granite in the entire house, they are at least used for flooring in the common areas.
Now, the walls don unusual and unique shades of hues. Some are even game to experiment with textures too. In the olden days, the walls were given a coat of white wash that was mostly made from clam shells. Besides giving a clean look to the house, it provided anti fungal effect by preventing moulds. Now, new age paints and emulsions that vow to protect the walls from extreme weather conditions and fungal attack dominate the market. It would be wiser if the budget is planned by keeping these things in mind.
Exorbitantly decorated kids’ bedrooms are sure to win brownie points from the guests on the housewarming day. Similarly, kitchen too is an area where you could show off with unnecessary décor and gadgets.
Experts say that the construction industry has seen some massive changes in the last fifty years. It is true that many new trends are amazing and might even prove beneficial. However, one cannot forget the fact that the construction costs and the labour costs are soaring. It is important to remember that the budget too would blow out of proportion when your desires have no limits.
There is no point in blaming others when you didn’t rein in the expenses when you could have. Your abode should be a haven of peace and comfort where the family creates amazing moments and memories. It doesn’t matter whether your house has all the modern luxuries. But, it surely needs to exude positive vibes that fill the interiors with joy.
Information courtesy: Jayan Bilathikulam
