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 elega.