The orientation of this home in Kerala faces the west, gently sloping towards the east. Settled in the rustic charm of Wandoor, within the verdant expanse of Malappuram District, lies a linear plot spanning 12 cents. Thus, it offers a canvas for architectural brilliance.
Editor’s Note: “With its enchanting courtyards and a facade that whispers of elegance, this Kerala residence harmonizes effortlessly with its lush surroundings and daily life. Every detail, from the careful spatial choreography to the thoughtful material selection, cultivates a sanctuary of tranquility. The soaring double-height spaces and the serene koi pond weave a tapestry of serenity and grace.” ~Simran Khare
This Home in Kerala Offers a Canvas for Architectural Brilliance | Bani Architects
Embraced by residential buildings on the northern and southern sides, and with an access road bordering the front, the site is primed for the creation of a tropical architectural masterpiece.
Situated amidst narrow roads to the front and back and neighbouring residences on the north and south, our strategy focused on creating a balance between privacy and natural elements. We also carefully considered solar considerations to optimise the dwelling’s environmental efficiency.
Introducing “Dhvani,” a sustainable sanctuary for the modern middle-class family. The client’s brief called for a 4-bedroom residence characterised by minimalism. It also demanded abundant natural light and a strong emphasis on integrating natural elements and open spaces. With the client’s enthusiastic support, we were able to transform their vision into an architectural marvel. The design approach prioritised the interior aesthetics and comfort of the client over the exterior aesthetics. We strived to create a harmonious balance between functionality and aesthetics. Thus ensuring that every aspect of the design contributed to the overall ambience and appeal of the home.
To harmonise with the site’s topography, the home in Kerala was subtly elevated at the front. Moreover, aligning with the access road and enhancing its visual presence. Notably, the front facade was elevated higher than the rest. Thus serving as a protective shield against direct sunlight exposure, thus ensuring a comfortable interior environment. The massing of the structure is characterised by a sloping roof, a design choice that not only aligns with the client’s preferences for a tropical aesthetic but also adds height to the overall structure. Strategically positioned in front of the living area, the porch acts as a shield against direct sunlight.
The heart of Dhvani lies in its two courtyards, one embracing a cherished mulberry plant and the other adorned with a serene fish pond. Each area is tailored to the client’s needs, culminating in a tropical oasis that harmonises with both the environment and lifestyle.
The design of this home in Kerala artfully divides the dwelling into two distinct levels, each serving specific functions. The upper level gracefully hosts the public domains, while the lower level caters to private and semi-public spaces.
Upon entry, a welcoming sit-out leads to a foyer, which serves as a nexus between the formal living area and a guest bedroom, comprising the vibrant public zone.
Transitioning through the foyer unveils a striking double-height dining space, characterised by its seamless integration with the surrounding natural elements—a serene koi pond on one side and a verdant deck adorned with a mulberry court on the other.
This peaceful setting offers ample light and ventilation, transforming the dining area and its adjacent spaces into a convivial, semi-public realm.
Continuing the journey, the dining space effortlessly connects to a tranquil prayer area, the kitchen, and the secluded master bedroom, delineating the private retreats within the residence.
Ascending to the first floor reveals a cozy family living area, acting as a conduit to two serene bedrooms, epitomizing the essence of privacy and comfort within the abode.
Additionally, by thoughtfully positioning the kitchen according to Vastu principles, we enhance the flow of positive energy throughout the residence.
Through meticulous spatial planning and strategic layout, Dhvani is a seamless fusion of functionality, aesthetics, and connectivity.
A single vertical opening positioned in front allows ample light into the double-height spaces within the house, enhancing the overall sense of openness and illumination. From the foyer, the transition in flooring materials from leather Kota to printed Kota becomes apparent.
The koi pond serves as a natural cooling mechanism, fostering a comfortable ambiance in the dining area and its surroundings.
Additionally, the central double height space facilitates efficient air circulation, promoting a consistent and pleasant indoor climate.
Fact FileDesigned by: Bani Architects
Project Type: Residential Architecture Design
Project Name: Dhvani
Location: Wandoor, Malappuram, Kerala
Year Built: 2023
Duration of the project: 1Year
Built-up Area: 2920 Sq.ft
Principal Architect: Ar. Shajabeen & Ar rizwan riyaz
Team Design Credits: Ar. Vaishnavi Dinesh
Photograph Courtesy: marc.studio
Products / Materials / Vendors: Wallcovering / Cladding – RR stone claddings / Construction Materials – laterite stone / Doors and Partitions – wood / Sanitaryware – Asian paints bathsense / Windows – wood / Furniture – ashwood / Flooring – Kotta stone and tiles
Firm’s Instagram Link: Bani Architects
Firm’s Facebook Link: Bani Architects
For Similar Project >>> This Aesthetic Courtyard House With Lush Landscape Design Offers A Calm Aura To The Users
“Even within the smallest green lies all the purity and freshness of Eden.” This idea became the seed for Eden Moss, a home nestled in an ecological environment and imagined as a breath of freshness, evoking the scent of mud after rain, and seamlessly intertwined with nature while still embracing comfort and contextual charm. Nestled […]
In Tiruppur’s industrial heartland, where the rhythm of textile mills sets the tone, the layered architecture in this Villa offers a quiet counterpoint. Shaped by stillness, proportion, and cultural memory, the home reflects the clients’ vision for a contemplative retreat. Set on a square plot within a gridded residential layout, the residence embraces architectural restraint […]
Nestled in what was once a coconut orchard, Sanctum serves as a sanctuary for a retired couple. Their daughter & a feline companion join them to offer a tranquil environment for everyday goings-on. The site is a 60’ x 90’ portion of land with six coconut trees. Two teak wood & silver oak trees, each […]
Tucked into the calm, tree-lined lanes of Nagarbhavi in Bangalore, Avani Residence rises as a poetic response to the chaos of the city, a vertical sanctuary where light dances, materials breathe, and space unfolds in gentle rhythms. Designed by Archemist Architects for a family of four, the residence is a nuanced interplay between constraint and […]
The designers envision Asterix Café as a flagship destination that challenges café design conventions. While coffee culture often associates with warm, pastel tones, Asterix dares to be different by embracing darkness as its defining aesthetic. Designed by UrbanNest Design Studio, the bespoke cafe is a bold experiment in creating a multi-functional, community centric space where […]
Adorn, a home filled with earthen design and the laughter of a family of four, nestles in the peaceful neighborhood of Selvapuram, Coimbatore. “On one side, it shares boundaries with cozy family homes; meanwhile, the other side opens to expansive fields dotted with tall trees.” The fresh air scented with greenery sets a calming atmosphere […]
Situated in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Anandvan residence beautifully embodies biophilic design, fostering a deep connection with nature through its thoughtful integration of outdoor and indoor spaces through open courtyards. Open Courtyards And A Biophilic Design Connect The Outdoors With The Indoors | R+R Architects Location The location and surroundings played a significant role in determining the […]
What if the simplest object in your home could turn into a design icon? Tectona Grandis Furniture and The Architects’ Diary come together to introduce the Chair Affair. This is India’s first-of-its-kind furniture design competition that dares architects and designers across India to rethink the most essential piece of furniture – the Chair. Beyond function, […]
In a calm and serene residential area of Mysore, a 10,000 sq. ft. site with mature mango and coconut trees set the stage for Eden Kindergarten school. One half of the land was already occupied by an existing block, while the other half was shaded by the canopy of old trees. Instead of altering this […]
The Indian farmhouse accommodation goes on to capitalize on a mature evolutionary synthesis of ancestral aesthetics and contemporary features. With this, the outside and the inside of farmhouses became places of comfort with nature. In this blog, we delve into 15 incredible farmhouse designs that entail a harmonious blending. While they exhibit different spaces in […]