Editor’s Note: Among the dense and lush greens of Kerala, this eloquent residence is a true testament to tropical etiquette. The welcoming ambiance leads to experiencing elements, from the quint Koi pond to the central courtyard, the simplicity of the interiors honors the outdoors for its wonderfulness. ~ Nishal Sevak
Conceived for an NRI client based in Japan, The Tropical Open House is a homage to family values and Southern architecture. He along with his wife and 2 kids initially planned of building a house in the city of Trivandrum. But somehow that idea did not materialize and he decided to build a house in his hometown Kalady. The site is 29 cents and was filled with nutmeg jackfruit and teak trees. Few matured teak trees were cut and used for construction. Other nutmegs and jackfruit trees within the area of construction were cut and all the other trees were retained.
The Tropical Open House is a Homage to Family Values and Southern Architecture | JKM Design Consortium
Visit: JKM Design Consortium
The building is placed towards the rear end of the site to accommodate for front yard for landscape and garage. The requirements were fairly simple- 4 bedrooms, family living, formal living, dining, kitchen, work area, parking for 2 cars and a small swimming pool for kids. The idea of swimming pool was added on later. In the initial stages it was conceived as a small tropical water body.
Along with the requirements the client had also stated that since they are settled abroad the home should be quite welcoming for them and especially for their children since they were quite aloof and distant from their native place.
Also they wanted the home to be entirely open so that effective communication and visual connectivity is well present in the house. Even if the children are having a time outside, parents spending time in the kitchen or living should be able to have a look at them.
Considering the requirements and the brief the plan was conceived with the garage and maximum space in the front(east), kitchen in the northeast, formal living in the south east, bedrooms in the west and the double height open living/dining in between these two blocks.
The swimming pool is placed adjacent to the double height living/dining space in the northern side. The building is placed in the east west direction as that was what the site demanded.
The home is designed with a courtyard in the southern side of the living cum dining and the swimming pool in the north with sliding wooden glass windows on either side of the living cum dining to ensure maximum cross ventilation and also to establish a good relationship with the outdoors.
Landscaped courtyards are present in front of the formal living and kitchen. The pivot operable wooden glass windows of the formal living opens out into a tropically designed koi pond towards the west and a landscaped courtyard in the east providing maximum views towards the outside. The design ensures the inmates of the house to enjoy nature from every part of the house.
The bedrooms on the south west overlooks the landscaped courtyard and and bedrooms on the northwest overlooks the swimming pool.
The bedrooms on the first floor opens out into a balcony. The balcony on the first floor further extends out onto the terrace with is covered with baby metal which reduces heat considerably. There are intentionally created interaction spaces on the terrace which is well used.
Landscape is given supreme importance. The deliberate creation of nature which encloses this home ensures an active interaction between other nature’s beings and members of the family. The usage of natural materials with good amount of cross ventilation and surrounding landscape keeps the house cool even during peak summer.
Fact File
Designed by: JKM Design Consortium
Project Type: Residential Architecture Design
Project Name: Tropical Open House
Location: Kalady, Manickamangalam, Kerala
Year Built: 2022
Built-Up Area: 4500 Sq.ft
Principal Architect: Mathew Jose
Photograph Courtesy: Nathan Photos
Firm’s Website Link: JKM Design Consortium
Firm’s Instagram Link: JKM Design Consortium
For Similar Project >>> A Striking Brick House with Hints of Traditional Design and Essence of Reformed Living
The thought was to create a space which would act as a formal real estate workspace in the daytime and a family retreat in the evening. By its name, as it is, ‘Leveled. This office with a garden is defined using levels, in terms of volumes, surfaces as well as edges. These levels are rationalized […]
Nirmay (निर्मय) reflects purity and holistic well-being. Envisioned as a quiet sanctuary amidst the noise of urban life, these courtyard villas offer a way of living that is calm, conscious, and deeply connected to the land. Rooted in sustainability and ecological harmony, the design responds to both nature and the everyday rhythms of its inhabitants. […]
Winterfell is a work of camouflaged design, an organic house that melds seamlessly with the terrain, rolling into the vibrant green landscape and naturally positioned boulders. Set in the scenic village of Shoolagiri within the Sanctity Ferme community in Tamil Nadu, Winterfell offers an idyllic retreat from urban life—a place to live close to nature. […]
The design concept of Tipu Villa embodies a harmonious balance of boldness and sophistication, crafting spaces that exude refinement and elegance, resulting in a true heritage home. Key design elements include exclusive use of Indian-sourced materials, including Indian teak wood, veneer, natural Kota lime stone, and yellow lime stone, promoting cultural charm and heritage. Tipu […]
Office spaces are often defined by uninspired, industrial aesthetics—endless rows of cubicles, glaring fluorescent lights and austere décor. It’s easy to become desensitized to the potential for beauty in these environments where we spend so much of our time. And with the demands for extended work hours becoming an accepted norm, the line between work […]
Nestled amidst the serene outskirts of Bangalore, this 1.25-acre modern farm house embodies a seamless fusion of traditional craftsmanship and modern design sensibilities. Every detail of the property reflects an unwavering commitment to creating a space that harmonizes with its natural surroundings while honoring heritage. This Modern Farm House Reflects Harmony with Nature and Heritage […]
The client envisioned a home that embodies openness and fluidity through interior contemporary design. He is drawn to expansive volumes and dramatic spatial experiences, including double-height ceilings and multiple floors. Each family member should have a distinct, personal space, yet all areas must remain visually and spatially connected to foster a strong sense of togetherness. […]
The Brahmaputra riverfront rejuvenates a natural water lily pond, creates a new river edge, and seamlessly connects the site to the adjacent heritage museum, fostering public interaction. Editor’s Note: “A combination of contours and current, the design of the Brahmaputra riverfront unfolds like a living memory. Quietly celebrating time and terrain, every curve echoes the […]
Located in the coastal village of Pererenan, Bali, House Terra is a contemporary response to tropical living, designed by Biombo Architects as a family retreat. The project balances built space and landscape, creating a strong connection between architecture and nature while offering shelter from the island’s monsoon climate. Editor’s Note: “House Terra, more than a […]
Located on a 15′ x 95′ ancestral plot in a pal village, Surat, India, this residence is designed for a multi-generational family of seven. This minimal home interior design solves light and space challenges within a narrow plot. The family wanted to stay connected with their community and preserve their cultural roots. The site has […]