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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.

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

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