Santhosh’s Residence

A Traditional Kerala Style Farmhouse

Mr. Santosh wanted a small farmhouse, as a vacation spot in Hassan, and we suggested Kerala Style Traditional Farmhouse. The client’s requirement was to give priority to Vastu without compromising the design. Vastu grid has been followed by Brahmasthan. which is a unique feature of ancient architecture based on Vastu Shastra. It is the central, holiest, and powerful zone of the house so it was kept free from all the activities.

The house is designed in such a way that there is good interaction between outdoors and indoors. Most of the property is dedicated to the landscape rather than the house. Landscape helps to make better use of the property to get more benefit out of it. A beautiful patio is installed on the east side away from the roadside, to achieve a beautiful place to eat and entertain outside. The landscape was planned before the design of the house, so there is a clear demarcation between the circulation path and for landscape. The landscape was designed for evening walks. The client wanted to have an escape from the city life for relaxing in nature.

Traditional Kerala-style architecture house is constructed facing east, the materials used for construction are locally available. The entrance gate leads to the driveway for the parking and the landscape is separated by this driveway which shows a modern version of the traditional ancient architecture.

Traditional Kerala-style architecture was incorporated in the elevation with a beautiful landscape and a portico around for sit-out. The plot size was huge, they wanted to use the outside portion more than the built-up space. The site is located below the road level near a lake, the chances of water entering the site are high due to that, the entire house is raised up by 3 feet 6 inches. Which will not only help to protect the house from flooding but will also show a grandeur look to the house from the roadside.

The plot area was more than 8000 square feet, still, the client preferred to have more outdoor space. The interiors have their own zen feeling.

Foyer :

Here the foyer helps in screening the people who enter the house thus providing privacy to the main area. Feature walls can be interesting. Adding artwork or sculpture or landscaping can enhance the elegance quotient of the entrance. By providing slits in the wall can change the whole ambiance of the foyer. Also, we can see a play of light as soon as anyone enters. Thus, the foyer is separated yet united with the living area because of the partition wall with slits.

Living :

The high-ceilinged living room creates a volume to the space. The open living area can be lit up with the natural light coming in from the east portico. Lights play a vital role in designing. From saving energy to connecting with nature. The high raised walls in the living help the entire home to look like an open space.

Common Space :

Indoor gardens, whether big or small, can add value to your home. This adds a lively ambiance to the area. It is also believed plants bring good energy and prosperity to the house.

Open Kitchen with Dining Area :

An open kitchen with a dining concept is incorporated. The windows near the kitchen and dining maximize natural sunlight by giving the space a warm and welcoming feeling. The philosophy of having an open kitchen with a dining table in it has gained immense popularity nowadays. This allows for maximum use of floor space without spaces being compromised adding a volume to the space for both functions.

Double Height :

The family area on the first floor has a double-height for the living below. The double heights help in making the space look spacious and bigger. A large amount of sunlight will enter through the elongated windows to the family area and living space. Monochromatic colors are adding aesthetic vibes to the living space.

Elevation Features :

  • Terracotta sloped roof is used in this traditional Kerala style architecture house.
  • Breeze blocks for shadow playing are provided in the east elevation, beautiful breeze blocks with local materials are used to create a traditional look to the house.
  • Bay windows are provided on the north side for more natural light that adds warm ambience to the space.
  • White columns support the sloping roof in the front. 
  • The open verandah is extended forward and is accessed by climbing the steps at the front of the house. 
  • The balustrade is detailed to create a traditional house look.
  • The main entry is well designed to achieve a traditional look.