The brief was to design a tranquil, single-story home nestled among trees, with a focus on clean, straight lines and abundant greenery both inside and out. The project aimed to blend modern architecture with Kerala’s natural landscape. It focused on integrating indoor and outdoor spaces, featuring a central pool, abundant greenery, glass facades, and steel trellises. Contemporary furnishings complemented the design, creating a serene atmosphere that honored both innovation and tradition.
Blurring the boundaries
The focal point of the house is undoubtedly the pool that lies at its center, surrounded by the living spaces. This ingenious design choice not only enhances the visual appeal but also fosters a deep sense of tranquility and connection with nature. As the sunlight dances on the water’s surface, it casts mesmerizing patterns inside the house, creating a harmonious blend of indoors and outdoors.
Inspired by the verdant landscapes of Kerala, the architectural plan seamlessly integrates lush greenery around the house. A meticulously landscaped garden with indigenous plants and trees not only enhances the aesthetics but also fosters an eco-friendly environment that promotes biodiversity and sustainable living.
The masterstroke of the design lies in the extensive use of glass in the facade. Large floor-to- ceiling windows and glass walls blur the boundaries between the interior and exterior, allowing natural light to flood the spaces and offering breathtaking views of the surrounding greenery. This not only creates an open and airy atmosphere but also encourages a seamless connection with nature.
Adding a touch of modernity and functionality, a dynamic steel trellis graces the exterior of the house. This ingenious architectural element not only acts as a sunshade, protecting the interior from the harsh tropical sun but also transforms the facade dynamically. It allows the occupants to adjust the amount of sunlight entering the house based on their preferences, creating a play of light and shadows that enhances the aesthetic appeal.
Conscious footprints
Inside the house, contemporary furniture pieces serve as functional art, complementing the overall design theme. The furnishings boast clean lines, minimalistic aesthetics, and a neutral color palette, allowing them to blend effortlessly with the architectural concept. The interiors exude an inviting ambiance, combining comfort and style in perfect harmony.
One of the initial challenges was addressing the site’s location in a waterlogged area, necessitating the house’s elevation by 1.5 meters above road level. While this proposal initially met with hesitation, collaborative discussions and education helped convey its importance. The recent Kerala floods proved that this decision was essential, highlighting the home’s safety and resilience.
The materials chosen for this project combine modern aesthetics with traditional sensibilities while prioritizing functionality and sustainability. High-quality glass maximizes natural light and thermal insulation, while steel offers durability and structural integrity. Wood adds warmth and texture, complementing the sleek elements. Concrete provides stability, and indigenous plants reflect Eco-conscious landscaping choices. Together, these materials create a harmonious blend of innovation and tradition, ensuring a timeless and environmentally friendly design.
The color palette used throughout the home primarily consists of shades of grey, complemented by accents of white and black. This choice reflects a desire for a clean, minimalist aesthetic that seamlessly integrates with the architectural concept.
In perfect harmony
The USP of this project is its ability to blend modern architecture with the natural environment in a harmonious way. The central pool, surrounded by living spaces, creates a tranquil and seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors. The extensive use of glass in the facade allows for an abundance of natural light, offering stunning views of the surrounding greenery, while the dynamic steel trellis provides both aesthetic appeal and functional sun protection. This innovative approach to design makes the house a unique and serene living space.
This contemporary house in a Kerala village beautifully exemplifies the harmony between modern architecture and nature. Its central pool, lush greenery, expansive glass facade, and dynamic steel trellis seamlessly blend innovation with tradition. The integration of thoughtfully designed contemporary furniture enhances the overall ambiance, creating a serene and stylish living experience—a tranquil retreat that celebrates both aesthetic elegance and functionality.
Fact file:
Name of the project: Grace Residence
Location: Kaladi, Edappal, Malappuram, Kerala
Area: 5,057.41 sq ft
Type: Residential Architecture
Design firm: BCA Architecture
Lead designer: Ar. Babu Cherian
Photography: Syam Sreesylam
About BCA Architecture:
Founded in 1995 by Principal Architect Babu Cherian, BCA Architecture stands as a beacon of thoughtful and innovative architectural practice, deeply rooted in the rich cultural and ecological heritage of Kerala, India. BCA Architecture is driven by a vision to harmonize Vernacular Architecture with the demands of modern living, integrating cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and innovation. The firm’s philosophy is encapsulated in its belief that the spirit of a tropical house is formed by merging the dwelling with its surroundings, creating spaces that are both ambiguous and intermediary.
