Set against the lush backdrop of Kerala’s greenery, On the Brooks stands out with its linear form and rustic brick facade. The single-story house for three located in Kochi is an amalgamation of the traditional and contemporary with upcycling vernacular materials. The design intent deals with the creation of meaningful experiences within the home.
An Amalgamation Of The Traditional And Contemporary With Upcycling Vernacular Materials | Monsoon Collective
Visit: Monsoon Collective
Concept: The design is based on the concept of a flowing brook, with water channels flowing around and through the building, and the rhythmic movement of the water being expressed in the form. The water flowing through these channels during the monsoon coupled with the vistas created within the space aids in the creation of a multi-sensory experience within the home.
Design Philosophy: The design involves a reinterpretation of traditional Kerala architecture. Modernization of these traditional elements to translate to a more contemporary style goes hand in hand with retaining the value of these spaces as per vastu principles. One such example is the entrance doorway set in a protruding concrete enclosure that is reminiscent of the traditional “padippura” doorway in its imposing scale and meaning. Courtyards and verandahs, a prominent part of Kerala’s vernacular architecture are vital to creating harmonious living spaces in the house. The plan involves the creation of elongated visual corridors, highlighted by the water channels leading toward the courtyard. The courtyard, the terminal of this visual axis is a semi-open garden, enclosed by patterned brick walls with rhythmic voids complimenting the flow of water through the channels. The “thinnai”, a transitional and social space in the region’s older homes, has been transformed into a deck adjoining the space.
Materiality: The building utilizes locally sourced brick, accented by concrete, steel, cane, and glass. The car porch, with its canopy made of locally sourced hand-cut cane reeds arranged in a geometric pattern within a steel frame, is a step towards upcycling a material that is often overlooked. Brick, another locally sourced material is used in the sinuous focus wall, made of combining semi-circular arches, that emulate the flow of water in a brook. The curves juxtapose the linear character of the form. The entire structure is capped by a concrete parasol roof that seems to float over the wall, an illusion created by the provision of slit windows right beneath it.
Sustainability: The protruding angular profile of the parasol roof aids its functionality as a rainwater catchment zone. The rainwater is then directed to the channels running around and into the interiors of the house, finally leading to the courtyard. The water is then discharged into the orchard beyond the house for irrigation purposes.
Though the creation of a well-crafted home is primary, the project strives to create a harmonious collection of spaces that are well-integrated with the context and climate. The house, crafted with humbleness aims to communicate with the common man, with its emphasis on creating sufficient, affordable spaces. Thus, On the Brooks with its refined details reaffirms the value of simplicity in architecture.
Fact File
Designed by: Monsoon Collective
Project Size: 2900 Sq.ft
Built Year: 2022
Location: Angamaly, Kerala
Photograph Courtesy: K. Midhul
Principal Architects: Manoj Madhu, Rafi Shakeer, Dona Jenn George, Anupama B, Afrosa Kamal
Products & Materials: Hybec, Kohler, Schneider
Consultants of the project:
Structural Design: Triangle Design Studio
Construction: Notion Roots
Furniture: Malhar Spaces
Interior Design: Anjali. A.S
Metal Fabrication: Elements Fab
Source: ArchDaily
Firm’s Website Link: Monsoon Collective
Firm’s Instagram Link: Monsoon Collective
For Similar project>>> Renovating This Ancestral Home Resulted In A Beautiful And Meaningful Space
Marble house designs in the Indian context constantly change and upgrade with time but never go out of style. Marble a timeless and versatile material, finds its application in various settings ranging from flooring to ornamentation. If you are looking for marble house ideas to add a touch of quality and luxury to your home, […]
In small bathroom layouts, every square inch counts. Without a thoughtful plan, a small space can quickly become cluttered, making it feel even more cramped. The right bathroom layout not only enhances functionality in interiors but also creates a sense of openness. Think about it—how frustrating is it to move around a bathroom where the […]
Creating a TV unit design in bedroom requires the right balance of functionality, optimization, and aesthetics to enhance the space. Apart from cots and wardrobes, TV units in a bedroom play a pivotal role in captivating an individual’s attention. Keeping in mind, the design theme and concept of your home, the TV unit design in […]
In the serene countryside of Vaiyampatti, an Indian retreat nestled amidst the vast expanse of paddy fields stands a humbly placed farmhouse exuding quiet grace and rustic elegance. It is a perfect setting, reminiscent of William Wordsworth’s “Solitary Reaper”. Editor’s Note: “Inspired by the timeless charm of Nalukettu architecture, this Trichy residence is enveloped by […]
Nestled in the serene locale of Banswara, Rajasthan, the exquisite interior design of this 6500 sq.ft. house epitomizes elegance and functionality, which the designer and now the house owners call is “sukoon.” Designed with meticulous attention to detail, this 3 BHK home seamlessly integrates a library, a rejuvenating jacuzzi, a modern gym, and an inviting […]
Ekam Retreat is a renovation project amidst the scenic terrains of Amboori, Trivandrum, Kerala. The project aimed at breathing new life and nature into an abandoned house. The walls of the house had significant damage and were left to the forces of nature. Editor’s Note: “The renovation of this residence in Trivandrum is a harmonious […]
20 MM marble has become the industry standard used by architects, designers, and builders alike, though there are many options for what material to use. It is not an accident that it is rapidly becoming the global number one. This thickness in marble provides special advantages, with 193 of the 195 countries using only 20 […]
This 5,735 square-foot house in Amritsar whispers the timeless grandeur of Indo-British architecture with a quiet yet commanding elegance. The residence and its elegant and subdued design pays homage to a regal past, offering a subtle yet impactful narrative through its carefully curated interiors. The house in Amritsar essence captures the delicate balance between heritage […]
Beautiful interiors blends with the aesthetic and functional house design, creating spaces that are visually appealing and comfortable. Featuring a harmonious colour palette, thoughtful lighting, a mix of textures and materials, and personalised touches. Elegant furniture arrangement and smart storage solutions further enhance the overall design, making each room both inviting and practical. Creating a […]
In this Baroda house project, we bring together a blend of two seemingly different styles – contemporary and ethnic – to create a unique and visually stunning space bathed in understated luxury. Interior design is all about creating spaces that reflect the individuality and style of the homeowner. The client Yashwant bhai Shah came to […]