The H-shaped house plan of House Wandoor is composed of interconnected pavilions that create a harmonious whole, with careful attention to scale and proportion. It creates two separate wings containing private spaces. Meanwhile, the central bridge-like area serves as a communal gathering space with open courtyards on both sides.
Editor’s Note: “The unique H-shaped residence in Kerala creates a harmonious space planning with clean lines and minimal orientation evoking a sense of serenity. Wooden vertical fins, dual in their role, cloak in privacy and dance in shade. A rhythmic cadence. A sense of flow and movement unfolds through transitional pockets, effortlessly melding inside and out, crafting a symphony of flow and grace.” ~Simran Khare
The H-Shaped House Plan Has A Communal And Private Spaces | Malabar Architecture Projects
The exterior of the house has clean lines and minimal ornamentation. It takes inspiration from the typical houses prevalent in Kerala, with vertical wooden fins at the front that provide privacy and shade while creating a dynamic visual element that mimics the surrounding rubber trees.
At the core of the design intention, transitional spaces such as hallways, staircases, and doorways are given more importance than just functional connections.
They become design elements in themselves. Thereby creating a sense of flow and movement through the space that is both intuitive and functional.
The result is a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, with maximum natural light and ventilation throughout.
The upper living area has no closed planes in the east-west directions, allowing for free wind flow and natural lighting.
The two courtyards are strategically placed on either side of the dining area. With one acting as a children’s play area and the other as an outdoor courtyard with a koi pond. The large outdoor living area also features a koi pond and offers a relaxing and serene space to unwind.
The dining area, located at the heart of the house, features a large opening that frames a picturesque view of the client’s old house, creating a unique and personalized artwork-like view that is reminiscent of the quote by Abbas Kiarostami: “I’ve often noticed that we are not able to look at what we have in front of us, unless it’s inside a frame.
Moreover, this framing of the view adds a layer of depth and meaning to the design, highlighting the importance of personalized and meaningful experiences in architectural design.
The House Wandoor is a captivating example of architecture that strikes an introverted pose from outside while revealing an invitingly open plan and immersive spatial experience inside.
The result is a beautiful and functional space that embodies the principles of architecture while providing a serene and relaxing space for residents to call home.
Fact File
Designed by: Malabar Architecture Projects
Project Type: Residential Architecture Design
Location: Kerala
Year Built: 2022
Project Size: 3500 Sq.ft
Principal Architects: Aflah Habeeb Mohammed CL, Anas Eranhikkal & Aslam E
Photograph Courtesy: Turtle Arts
Firm’s Instagram Link: Malabar Architecture Projects
Firm’s Facebook Link: Malabar Architecture Projects
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