House in Kollam with traditional features and modern amenities

Arun Kumar and Rejula’s brand new house in Vavvakavu in Kollam district exudes the mesmerizing elegance of traditional architecture. This amazing abode that could rightly be called a modern ‘naalukettu’ (traditional household with inner courtyard) has pleasant greenery on all sides. Interestingly, a grand old ancestral home, that is more than a century old, had stood in this plot. Meanwhile, the new structure too boasts of classy features and splendid amenities which make it a perfect home where tradition meets modernity.

The family had decided to build a single storey house as it would be more comfortable for their aged parents. Besides, it makes maintenance easier and ensures closer bonds between the family members. Interestingly, only the master bedroom and the kitchen are cement plastered. GI truss work has been installed above the house and is paved with roofing tiles. Moreover, stylish ceiling tiles too have been used. Besides the beautiful central courtyard, there are lots of doors that open to the charming landscape outside.

The house faces east, receiving the cool breeze that flows in from this direction. The interiors are designed in a way which allows this breeze to reach every corner of the house before going out through the openings on the west side. The front yard has been paved with Kadappa stones and grass in alternate layers. The structure has been designed by retaining the elanji tree (mimusops elengi or Spanish cherry) that had been standing in the yard since ages.

Designed in 3000 sqft, this spectacular dwelling has a car porch, sit out, formal and family living areas, dining space, courtyard, four bedrooms and a kitchen with an adjacent work area.

The entrance door opens to a traditional pooja space that is highlighted with laterite stone cladding. The formal living areas, meanwhile, is arranged just beside this space. Moreover, there is a private area that is furnished with poroterm jali works, adjacent to the living area.

The open courtyard is the highlight of the interiors. The floor of the courtyard is paved with shiny pebbles that grant a rustic charm. Meanwhile, the spaces in the interiors are arranged around this courtyard making it the soul of the house. The open ceiling welcomes cool drizzles, warm sunshine and refreshing breeze into the house. The chic elegance of Athamkudi tiles makes flooring an eye catching feature. Artisans were specially brought from Karaikudi to pave these exquisite tiles on the floor.

The dining and the family living areas are part of the spacious open hall. A TV area has been separated in the family living space. Here, a wall has been highlighted with brick cladding. A folding door in the dining area opens to the beautiful landscape. Lots of natural light and air come into the house of this door is opened.

The bedrooms are minimal yet cozy. The bath attached bedrooms have wardrobes for storage. The kitchen, meanwhile, has been designed giving prime importance to utility. The cupboards here are done in wooden finish. An adjacent work area completes the modern kitchen.

It was in January this year that the family had moved in after celebrating the housewarming ritual. They say that the cool atmosphere inside the house had made the summer extremely pleasant. There is an amazing ambience inside the house even during the noon time. The family says that there is no need to switch on the fans or light during the day. This helps them save a significant amount of money on the electricity bills.

The family members are elated that they have got the house of their dreams. The guests too are amazed by the beautiful features and cool interiors of this traditional abode.

Project Facts

Location – Vavvakavu, Kollam

Plot – 60 cents

Area – 3000 SFT

Owner – Arun Kumar and Rejula

Designer – Mejo Kurian

Voyage Designs, Vyttila, Kochi

Mob – 9745640027

Year of completion – 2021