Philip and his wife wanted an elegant house amid serene surroundings to enjoy their retired life. That is why they decided to knock down the old house in Kaduthuruthy near Kottayam in Kerala that had begun showing signs of age and decay. Their children have settled abroad; so, they wanted a simple single-storey house to make maintenance hassle-free. The multi-layered slanting roof perfectly suits the tropical climate of Kerala. Interestingly, GI truss roof has been installed over a flat roof. The cavity space between both the roofs could be used as a utility area. Besides, this feature helps in reducing the heat inside the house. Moreover, this multi-layered roof grants a majestic look to the elevation, drawing instant attention.
Designed in 2550 sqft, this fabulous abode has a car porch, sit-out, living and dining areas, kitchen with a work area, four bedrooms and a courtyard. The semi-open spaces in the interiors make the house look spacious. Interestingly, smart décor and furnishing ensure separation between the spaces while allowing an excellent visual connection.
The ceiling of the sit-out isn’t concrete-proofed. The truss roof here is paved with roofing tiles. This area is lavishly designed to enjoy the mesmerizing views of the landscape. The metal rafters of the ceiling have been extended to build the frame of the in-built sitting spaces. Wooden planks are paved here to add a rustic yet classy feel.
Lots of spaces have been arranged in the house that allows the family members to enjoy the soothing rains and the refreshing sun rays. The central courtyard with an open ceiling is the highlight of the interiors. Cooling rain showers come inside through this courtyard. The presence of terracotta jali works grants a mesmerizing ambience to the house. The ceiling and the walls are decorated with jali works to add a touch of rustic elegance. The sun rays that fall through these jali walls draw a myriad of pictures. These are sealed using pest-controlling mesh to keep away mosquitoes.
Besides the main entrance door in the sit-out, there is a sliding door on the front side that opens to the dining area. Lots of breeze and ample sunshine enter the house if this door is opened.
Vitrified tiles have been paved on the floor. The custom-made furniture has been done in teak finish. A beautiful and sturdy shelf is what separates the dining area and the family living area. A wall here is highlighted with panels to install the TV unit.
The wall beside the dining area has been turned into a prayer space. Pleasant sunshine that falls through terracotta skylight ceiling illuminates this area. The shadow designs that these sun rays create on the adjacent white wall is truly breathtaking.
A long corridor leads to the wall where the prayer space has been arranged. Besides, there is a long terracotta jali wall here to complete the look. From here, one could enter the courtyard in the backside.
The open kitchen that faces the dining area is decorated with money plant vines, adding a fresh hint of greenery.
The living area has a wall highlighted with panelling work where the TV unit has been mounted.
The bedrooms are simple yet elegant. They are not stuffed with unnecessary décor or the walls do not don brighter shades of hues. One side of these rooms are lined with windows that open to the beautiful views outside. Moreover, these rooms are naturally lit too.
The laundry space is arranged beneath the double-height roof in the centre. A separate staircase is built outside the house to access this area.
The splendid roofing pattern of the house ensures that the elevation dons unique looks from different angles. The house looks breathtakingly beautiful, in the twilight, as the spotlights are switched on.
The owners are interested in gardening and growing organic veggies. They have even grown an impressive fruit garden in the backyard. Interestingly, the windows in their bedroom open to the relaxing sights of this garden.
Project Facts
Location – Kduthuruthy, Kottayam
Plot – 28 cents
Area – 2550 SFT
Owner – Philip Khadaliparambil
Architect – Joseph Chalissery
Dream Infinite Studio, Irinjalakkuda
Mob – 9496863713
Year of completion - 2022