Basking in enigmatic white hue, this single-storey Vaikom house exudes class

Karthik and Megha, who have settled abroad, had always dreamt of building a comfortable abode in their hometown Vaikom in Kottayam, Kerala. The family wanted their dream dwelling to look traditional from the outside, and have all the modern facilities in the interiors. They entrusted architect Martin, who is also a close friend, with the designing of the house. Karthik was able to visit the site only once after the construction began. The couple relied mostly on WhattsApp messages and video calls for sharing their ideas with the designing team.

As the plot was flooded in the 2018 deluge, the level of ground was raised before the construction began. Meanwhile, the structure is built by leaving ample space in the front, highlighting the majestic look of the elevation. The 2200 sqft house has been constructed on a 20-cent plot, allotting lots of space in the frontal area and the backyard. Even though the house is single-storey, facilities that fit a double-storey building have been arranged in the interiors. Truss roof, paved with Mangalore tiles, is installed over the flat roof. Besides granting a charming traditional elegance to the elevation, these features allow an attic space between the roofs.

The beautiful house has a sit-out, formal and family living areas, dining space, courtyard, kitchen with a work area and three bedrooms with attached bathrooms. The car porch is not part of the elevation and is built separately.

The family wanted the interiors to don the serene elegance of white hue. Meanwhile, grey and black have been used to break the monotony of the single colour and add the perfect contrast. Timber has been used minimally for furnishing as the main doors and windows are made using steel.

The entrance door opens to the beautifully furnished living area, adorned with customised white coloured couch. A wall here is highlighted with textured paint.

The family living area, dining space and kitchen have been arranged as part of the spacious hall. The open theme and the white-coloured walls make the interiors look and feel vaster. Meanwhile, grey finished tiles in 4 X 2 size are paved on the floor in the common areas. The eight-seater dining table that features the classy wood and glass combination is a sturdy piece of furniture. The open modular kitchen boasts of modern facilities, making it the favourite spot of the family.

The kitchen offers a fabulous visual treat with wall tiles that feature unique geometrical patterns. The cabinets, meanwhile, are done in marine ply with a laminate finish. The nano-white paved countertop, charming hanging lights and spotlights make the kitchen one of the most beautiful areas in the house. An adjacent work area and a working kitchen too are arranged as part of the main kitchen.

The sliding glass door in the dining area opens to the scintillating courtyard, which adds a hint of greenery to the house. A wall featuring terracotta jali works and exposed bricks too could be seen here.

The wash area is arranged beside the corridor that begins from the main hall. The mesmerizing look of the sleek tiles with geometrical patterns is the highlight of the wash area. The bedrooms are arranged beside the corridor to ensueg privacy. These rooms, in 14 X 14 size are cosy spaces that exude the grand elegance of the white hue. Workspace, wardrobes, dressing spaces, and attached bathrooms are all part of the spacious bedrooms.

The construction of the house, including the structure and furnishing, was completed on a budget of Rs 60 lakh. The family says that their relatives and friends often visit their brand-new house to enjoy its fabulous looks and amenities.

Project Facts
Location – Vaikom
Owner – Karthik and Megha
Area – 2200 SFT
Design – Martin Podipara
Turtle wood Interiors