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  • This Traditional Kerala Home is Rooted in Simplicity and Modern Elegance | Vaktra Architects

    Nestled in the tranquil village of Thenipalam, Malappuram, Aman is a 2,800 sq. ft. residence, manifesting its Urdu namesake, meaning peace, sanctuary, and security. Designed by Vaktra Architects, this traditional Kerala home is a testament to simplicity, blending Kerala’s tropical ethos with contemporary elegance.

    Editor’s Note: “Guided by Kerala’s climate patterns and inspired by its traditional architecture, this home illuminates an old soul with modern elegance. Built around an old mango tree, the home adores simplicity and minimalistic design approach. With walls moulded in earthy laterite, roof sculpted with mangalore tiles, and furniture carved from wood, this home is a testament to contemporary ethos with simplicity interwoven in it.” ~Rajvi Dedakiya

    This Traditional Kerala Home is Rooted in Simplicity and Modern Elegance | Vaktra Architects

    traditional kerala home

    “When the clients approached us, they envisioned a home free from over-ornamentation. Simple, modern, yet rooted in Kerala’s climate. Aman became a canvas where minimalism meets warmth” shares Ar. Insaf.

    “Every detail, from the preserved mango tree to the natural materials, was intentional” adds Ar. Salwa.

    traditional kerala home

    traditional kerala home

    Design Philosophy: Harmony with Nature

    Set on a 16-cent L-shaped plot, the house faces east despite its southern entry, a decision guided by Kerala’s sunlight patterns. A mature mango tree, cherished by the client, shaped the layout, ensuring nature remained at the forefront.

    traditional kerala home

    traditional kerala home

    Design Choreography

    A clean, minimalist aesthetic. Functional outdoor spaces: a front yard, backyard, and landscaped courtyard. Climate-responsive design with modern sensibilities.

    traditional kerala home

    To fulfil this, the kitchen was placed on the northeast side, connected to a textured RR masonry screen wall that stretches to the plot’s eastern edge. This wall, clad in earthy laterite, frames the backyard and porch while pivoted wooden shutters offer glimpses of the lush surroundings.

    traditional kerala home

    traditional kerala home

    The home is thoughtfully divided into three zones:

    Formal Zone

    Sit-out & Living Room: A welcoming space with clean lines and soaring ceilings, anchored by Jaisalmer marble flooring that glows in natural light.

    traditional kerala home

    Informal Zone

    Family Living, Dining & Kitchen: The heart of the home, where daily life unfolds. A patio extends from the family area, merging indoors with outdoors.

    traditional kerala home

    traditional kerala home

    A sculptural wooden staircase becomes a focal point, while a built-in bay window in the dining area invites family gatherings.

    traditional kerala home

    Private Zone

    Bedrooms: Each features cozy bay windows designed for reading or quiet conversations. Soft light filters through, blending privacy with nature’s embrace.

    Material Poetry: Earthy & Elegant

    The design embraced raw, natural textures to amplify the home’s minimalist soul. Floors: Jaisalmer marble (living areas) and rugged Kota stone (kitchen). Walls: RR masonry cladding and laterite stone, celebrating Kerala’s vernacular craft. Wood: Stairs, shutters, and furniture in warm reddish tones add organic warmth.

    Interior Palette

    Walls in white, yellow, and cement grey create a calming backdrop. Floral-patterned fabrics on sofas, chairs, and cushions infuse subtle vibrancy. Handpicked artworks, paintings, and pendant lights echo the home’s understated elegance.

    A Modern Homage to Kerala’s Legacy

    Aman reimagines the traditional Kerala home through a minimalist lens. Courtyards become meditative retreats, while open layouts and natural materials honour the region’s architectural DNA.

    “It’s a space for both solitude and social connection—where families gather, monsoons are celebrated, and peace is perpetual,” reflects Ar. Insaf.

    Fact File

    Designed by: Vaktra Architects

    Project Type: Residential Architecture Design

    Project Name: Aman

    Location: Malappuram, Kerala

    Year Built: 2024

    Duration of the project: 2021-2024

    Project Size: 2800 Sq.ft

    Project Cost: 85 Lakhs

    Principal Architects: Ar. Badarul Insaf & Ar. Salwa

    Team Design Credits: Ar. Jasim & Swafwan

    Photograph Courtesy: concreto_grapher

    Firm’s Instagram Link: Vaktra Architects

    For Similar Project >>A Meticulously Designed House that Caters to a Joint Family while Embracing the Principles of Vastu Shastra



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