Bhavati is situated on 20 cents of Plot No.33 in over 4 acres of land planted with various fruit trees. The promoters decided that there shall be no fences between plots and a footprint of 600.0 sft for the buildings, so as to maintain the area as an orchard. Plot No.33 is at the lower part that slopes from south to north. Bhavati bestowed the Indian Institute of Architects National Award for Excellence in Architecture 2023 for Residential Budget House up to 1500 sq.ft.
Editor’s Note: Bhavati House designed by Dhrumam Architects is a Brutalist residence with a plan that peels up from the north to create a walk-up roof extending the surrounding landscape. The walk-up roof holds solar panels and provides view across the building. The designers cover the sides on the west and east to shade the interiors, while the whole volume opens to the north.
Situated On 4 Acres of Land Of Fruit Trees, This Home Is An Art Structure | Dhrumam Architects
The design strategy for this home on over 4 acres of land was to enter at the level where the road is on par and follow the natural slope for the floor plates. The plan peels up from the north to create a walk-up roof extending the surrounding landscape. The ensuing space was used on three levels. Entry at mid level, lower level has the general spaces also accessible from the north, and the upper level has the resting area. The designers covered the sides on the west and east to shade the interiors, while the whole volume opens to the north.
The architects placed the toilets on the west wall, while the east wall has the kitchen at the lower level and stairs at the upper level as a thermal buffer. They designed the entry for a tunnel-like space to draw the wind and pull breeze through the house. They kept the interior volume purposely less bright and multifunctional, like the traditional Kerala houses. A refuge from the harsh sun of summer.
The architects insulated the south-facing RCC with earth and grass. The walk-up roof holds solar panels and is easily accessible. The rise of the roof also provides a view across to the hills. They used walls that are corrugated cement sheets on the outside and plain cement sheets on the inside. In time, this will be covered with plants hanging from the roof to insulate better.
The floor is a cement finish. The interior is sparse, lending itself to changes according to the addition of colour and accessories. All materials are raw, but for a protective clear coating.
One can reach the lower floor from the entry by a built-in stair that transforms into seating, blending into the living space and open kitchen. The whole space integrates into a community area while also connecting with the upper level.
The upper platform overlooks the steps and looks out to the sky via a skylight. On the north, a sunken slab with a mesh enclosure that protects and yet includes the outdoors. Bhavati strives to be of simple purpose, easy to sustain, integrating with the land, and in time, being as non-intrusive on site.
Fact File
Designed by: Dhrumam Architects
Project Type: Residential Architecture Design
Project Name: Bhavati House
Location: Erumeli, Kerala
Year Built: 2023
Built-up Area: 1000 sqft
Principal Architects: Thomas Jose
Photograph Courtesy: Justin Sebastian Photography & Ar. Joseph K.T.
Engineering & Consulting > Structural: Felix Varkeykunju
General Constructing: King Jesus Construction Co.
Source: Archdaily
Firm’s Instagram Link: Dhrumam Architects
Firm’s Facebook Link: Dhrumam Architects
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