This Modern House in Kerala is a commercial structure originally designed with columns and beams was transformed into a grand, luxurious, 13,000 sq. ft., three-level residence in the heart of Calicut city. The client’s initial dilemma was whether to continue with the commercial concept or turn it into a residence. Inspired by the philosophy, “Change is constant; metamorphosis is the key,” the project evolved into “AHVI”—meaning “breath of life,” symbolizing the act of giving soul to a physical structure and calling it “home.”
This Modern House in Kerala was Transformed Into a Grand Residence | En Haut Architects
The exterior elevation of AHVI is minimalist and simple, combining grey, brick red, and green leaflets cascading down the facade. Additionally, the exterior doesn’t reveal the vast volume and intricate interior spaces within. A long, private front verandah enclosed by a compound wall invites residents to relax while enjoying the breeze.
The grand living area, with its 4-meter-high ceiling, features one facade entirely in glass, flooding the space with natural light. Moreover, the opposite wall showcases golden marble and beige panelling.
To the left, the ceiling height suddenly increases, reaching a triple-height space. This becomes the central gathering point of the home, where sound from every corner can be heard.
Furthermore, this space is designed as a majlis setup, with a contrastingly colored wall and beautiful metal artwork. From here, one can view the dining area and catch a glimpse of the pool, accessible via a passage connecting to the kitchen.
The dining room, filled with natural light, highlights the luxurious beige and golden marble finishes, surrounding a 10-seater dining table. Additionally, the passage leading to the kitchen has wooden flooring, creating warmth and flow.
Adjacent to the dining room is the family living area. However, it connects to the formal living room via a window, which Roman curtains and a TV wall make discreet.
The pool is strategically placed in a private zone and is hidden from outside view. Meanwhile, service areas are positioned along the sides for functionality.
Next to the family living space is the parents’ master bedroom, adopting a minimalist, luxurious theme with custom wooden consoles and side tables, crafted from plywood and veneer. Additionally, the grey tones create a classy ambience. Thus, elevating the overall interior design.
The stairs sit at the far left of the house, while a lift facilitates the primary vertical movement.
Furthermore, on the first floor, there’s a mezzanine seating area and a verandah overlooking the majlis space on the ground floor. This level has two bedrooms: one designed with a peach-beige combination and walnut wood textures, complemented by hanging lights and a textured wall behind the headboard.
Moreover, the second bedroom features a cozy lounge with cushioned sofas, a large walk-in wardrobe, and custom-made furniture, complete with a spacious mirror.
Additionally, the third floor houses two bedrooms. The primary challenge in planning was working around the pre-built columns and beams. Thus, ensuring they didn’t interfere with the interior design.
Overall, this project taught us that creative thinking has no boundaries. As designers, we can transcend structural limitations (such as columns and beams) to create spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Fact File
Designed by: En Haut Architects
Project Type: Residential Architecture Design
Project Name: AHVI
Location: Karaparamb, Kozhikode, Kerala
Year Built: 2023
Duration of the project: 1.5 Years
Project Size: 13000 Sq.ft
Project Cost: 4 Crore
Principal Architects: Abdul Shabeer. C.K & Rashad K.K
Team Design Credits: Rashid. P, Safeedha C.V , Saheedha C.V & Roshni T.T
Photograph Courtesy: Turtle Arts
Products / Materials / Vendors: Lighting – Euro Light / Doors and Partitions –Teakwood / Sanitaryware – Groha / Windows – Hosten Aluminium / Furniture –Nexto / Flooring – Italian Marble / Kitchen – WPC with Acrylic Laminate / Paint – Asian Paints / Artefacts – Port Interior / Hardware – Groha
Firm’s Website Link: En Haut Architects
Firm’s Instagram Link: En Haut Architects
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