Zenhouse is a residential project designed as a vacation home in Palakkad, Kerala. The project is not just a house; it’s a space designed to function as a sanctuary. The concept is to create an idyllic, peaceful spaces with raw materials that aim for a state of enlightenment through thoughtful design. This is achieved through a minimalist design philosophy that eliminates visual clutter, reduces stress, and fosters a sense of mental clarity.
Raw Materials And Functional Design Define This Idyllic Home In Kerala | Studio Nirvana
We were inspired by Zen concepts and wanted to create a space that would bring clarity and peace of mind to the occupants. The design in raw materials embraces the ideologies of Zen living – simplicity, harmony, and connection to nature.
The main house is around 15000 sq. ft. The floor plan is an open, intuitive flow, with 5 bedrooms, living spaces, dining area with kitchen, indoor pool, and a meditation room. The design is intentionally sparse, having many spaces with no functions. The architects interconnected the spaces to encourage a sense of spaciousness and ease of movement. They treated natural light as a design material.
To meet the project’s requirements and vision, the architects designed an outhouse to accommodate a gym, spa area, and salon, which amounts to a total built-up of 20,000 sq. ft. The site was over half an acre and had a number of fully grown mango and jackfruit trees, amongst others. We tried not to cut any of the branches in order to fully preserve these trees. The idea was to build around these trees, letting the built form take shape; hence, the layout had to organically evolve around these trees, creating a series of voids and shifting geometries.
They carefully planned the layout around the trees, with the form adapting to their locations. The trees’ canopy and leaves filter sunlight, creating a dynamic and ever-changing play of light and shadow throughout the day, and become an integral part of the interior atmosphere.
The material choices are honest, natural, and calming. The idea was to gradually create emptiness in the minds of the occupants and, in turn, create fresh thoughts, clarity in their minds.
Fact File
Designed by: Studio Nirvana
Project Type: Residential Architecture Design
Project Name: Zen House
Location: Palakkad, Kerala
Year Built: 2025
Photograph Courtesy: Ishita Sitwala
Principal Architect: Avinash Joshy
Manufacturers: FritsJurgens, &Tradition, 101 COPENHAGEN, M-Lime, Mario Tsai, Phantom Hands, Poj Studio , Sar Studio, Schuco International, Spoon Lighting, Stem Design
Source: Archdaily
Firm’s Website Link: Studio Nirvana
Firm’s Instagram Link: Studio Nirvana
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