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 blend of modern necessities with traditional style of architecture. Located within a lush landscape the sloping roof with verandah evokes a sense of contemporary living. The interiors bathe in natural light along with a combination of natural materials like terracotta tiles, cane and fabrics wrap the abode in a warm embrace.” ~Simran Khare
The Ekam Retreat Breathes Nature and Life into an Abandoned House | Ark Architecture Studio
The house had undergone changes with due course of time. Located amidst the mountains of Amboori, the site offered breathtaking views towards the lush greenspaces and river flowing nearby. The forest-like ambience elevates the whole look and feel of the site.
The design intent was to restore the home with contemporary living requirements with a traditional twist. The main aim was to bring about openness to the dark interiors and to extend an additional bedroom space without much structural change.
The original house with metal sheet roofing was transformed with minimal changes to bring about a significant change in an aesthetic way. Moreover, a traditional verandah with pillars that support the extended sloping roof was introduced in a minimalistic way.
An open planning approach combined the living, dining, and kitchen areas into a simple, light-filled space with ample natural light and ventilation, transforming the once dark and moody home. Demolishing the existing walls that previously divided the spaces created a unified, open layout.
The home follows a neutral earthy palette with minimal interior treatments. Meanwhile, large openings in every room bring the essence of the surrounding lush greenery inside. Carefully selected wall decor, cushions, and soft furnishings infuse Indian aesthetics into the space.
The design of the kitchen space is open and compact. Thus, featuring parallel counters and a provision for a mini fridge.
In the dining counter also, we have introduced a layer of terracotta jaalis in cyan to accentuate the aesthetic aspect of the space.
However, there are two bedrooms with very minimal interior treatment. Just the required bed space, wardrobe space, and dressing space are provided minimally.
Most of the furniture in the home was carefully refurbished and reused. The landscaping, arranged in multiple layers, is visible from the road, with the terracotta roofing on the fourth level blending seamlessly into the surroundings. Ekam is an attempt at reimagining the concept of restoring life to a once-abandoned home. A home away from home.
Fact File
Designed by: Ark Architecture Studio
Project Type: Renovation Residential Architecture Design
Project Name: Ekam Retreat
Location: Amboori , Trivandrum
Year Built: 2023
Project Size : 1080 Sq.ft
Principal Designer: Ar. Rahul Kumar & Ar. Malavika Mahesh
Photograph Courtesy: nathan
Products / Materials / Vendors: Sanitaryware – Jaguar / Flooring – Granitogres / Paint – Asian Paints / Artefacts – Fabindia
The Firm’s Website Link: Ark Architecture Studio
The Firm’s Instagram Link: Ark Architecture Studio
Firm’s Facebook Link: Ark Architecture Studio
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