Nestled in the tranquil village of Thenipalam, Malappuram, Aman is a 2,800 sq. ft. residence, manifesting its Urdu namesake, meaning peace, sanctuary, and security. Designed by Vaktra Architects, this traditional Kerala home is a testament to simplicity, blending Kerala’s tropical ethos with contemporary elegance.
Editor’s Note: “Guided by Kerala’s climate patterns and inspired by its traditional architecture, this home illuminates an old soul with modern elegance. Built around an old mango tree, the home adores simplicity and minimalistic design approach. With walls moulded in earthy laterite, roof sculpted with mangalore tiles, and furniture carved from wood, this home is a testament to contemporary ethos with simplicity interwoven in it.” ~Rajvi Dedakiya
This Traditional Kerala Home is Rooted in Simplicity and Modern Elegance | Vaktra Architects
“When the clients approached us, they envisioned a home free from over-ornamentation. Simple, modern, yet rooted in Kerala’s climate. Aman became a canvas where minimalism meets warmth” shares Ar. Insaf.
“Every detail, from the preserved mango tree to the natural materials, was intentional” adds Ar. Salwa.
Set on a 16-cent L-shaped plot, the house faces east despite its southern entry, a decision guided by Kerala’s sunlight patterns. A mature mango tree, cherished by the client, shaped the layout, ensuring nature remained at the forefront.
A clean, minimalist aesthetic. Functional outdoor spaces: a front yard, backyard, and landscaped courtyard. Climate-responsive design with modern sensibilities.
To fulfil this, the kitchen was placed on the northeast side, connected to a textured RR masonry screen wall that stretches to the plot’s eastern edge. This wall, clad in earthy laterite, frames the backyard and porch while pivoted wooden shutters offer glimpses of the lush surroundings.
The home is thoughtfully divided into three zones:
Sit-out & Living Room: A welcoming space with clean lines and soaring ceilings, anchored by Jaisalmer marble flooring that glows in natural light.
Family Living, Dining & Kitchen: The heart of the home, where daily life unfolds. A patio extends from the family area, merging indoors with outdoors.
A sculptural wooden staircase becomes a focal point, while a built-in bay window in the dining area invites family gatherings.
Bedrooms: Each features cozy bay windows designed for reading or quiet conversations. Soft light filters through, blending privacy with nature’s embrace.
The design embraced raw, natural textures to amplify the home’s minimalist soul. Floors: Jaisalmer marble (living areas) and rugged Kota stone (kitchen). Walls: RR masonry cladding and laterite stone, celebrating Kerala’s vernacular craft. Wood: Stairs, shutters, and furniture in warm reddish tones add organic warmth.
Walls in white, yellow, and cement grey create a calming backdrop. Floral-patterned fabrics on sofas, chairs, and cushions infuse subtle vibrancy. Handpicked artworks, paintings, and pendant lights echo the home’s understated elegance.
Aman reimagines the traditional Kerala home through a minimalist lens. Courtyards become meditative retreats, while open layouts and natural materials honour the region’s architectural DNA.
“It’s a space for both solitude and social connection—where families gather, monsoons are celebrated, and peace is perpetual,” reflects Ar. Insaf.
Fact File
Designed by: Vaktra Architects
Project Type: Residential Architecture Design
Project Name: Aman
Location: Malappuram, Kerala
Year Built: 2024
Duration of the project: 2021-2024
Project Size: 2800 Sq.ft
Project Cost: 85 Lakhs
Principal Architects: Ar. Badarul Insaf & Ar. Salwa
Team Design Credits: Ar. Jasim & Swafwan
Photograph Courtesy: concreto_grapher
Firm’s Instagram Link: Vaktra Architects
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