Nestled in the heart of Trivandrum’s urban landscape, this 2390 sq. ft. tropical modern architecture home sprawls across a 9-cent plot, masterfully blending natural elements with modern design. The thoughtful architecture creates a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors, bringing warmth and serenity to the urban dwelling.
Editor’s Note: “Situated amidst the chaos of Trivandrum, ‘Kanavil’ is a peaceful ode to nature-infused modernity. With breathing patios, rooms filled with natural light, and textures that recall tropical warmth, the house provides an immersive experience in which minimalism and rich life coexist. Here, architecture is a living, breathing element of the landscape.” ~ Anusha Sridhar
Tropical Modern Architecture Redefines Comfort and Serenity in Trivandrum | Ark Architecture Studio
As you step into the residence, you’re welcomed onto an extensive sit-out space, cleverly set in levels. Different kinds of seating areas are thoughtfully designed, inviting relaxation and conversation.
The main door opens into the living space, flanked by a lush green patio on one side and linear windows on all sides.
These windows bring the exterior greenery into the interiors, creating a sense of harmony with nature. An L-shaped sofa and a cozy bay window seating area complete the warm and inviting atmosphere.
A few steps downward lead to the next level of the residence, where the heart of the home awaits. A linear and spacious area connects the double-height dining, open kitchen, and patio space, creating a large, flowing living space.
This thoughtful design encourages social interaction, making it perfect for family gatherings and entertaining.
The patio space is a tranquil oasis, perfect for relaxing and unwinding. Natural stone flooring and a majestic Terminalia tree create a sense of calm, while the inbuilt seating invites conversation and connection.
The residence boasts four spacious bedrooms, each a serene retreat. The ground floor houses two bedrooms, including the master bedroom, while the first floor features the remaining two bedrooms. The design treats each bedroom with a warm palette that echoes the natural surroundings, inviting rest and rejuvenation.
The interior design intentionally embraces understatement, featuring clean lines, simple shapes, and a careful curation of textures and materials.
The minimal aesthetic is balanced by the thoughtful incorporation of natural elements, such as wooden accents, cane detailing, and jute textiles. Soft green and orange hues add a pop of color, evoking the vibrancy of tropical fruit and flowers.
This tropical home in Kerala’s urban landscape is a testament to the power of thoughtful design. By incorporating natural elements and a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors, a serene and inspiring space is created that feels like a breath of fresh air in the midst of the bustling city.
Fact File
Designed by: Ark Architecture Studio
Project Type: Residential Architecture Design
Project Name: Kanavil
Location: Chenkottukonam, Trivandrum, Kerala
Year Built: 2024
Project Size: 2400 Sq.ft
Principal Designer: Ar. Rahul Kumar & Ar. Malavika Mahesh
Photograph Courtesy: 148 South
Products / Materials / Vendors: Sanitaryware – jaguar / Furniture – Studio Itbits / Flooring – Kajaria / Paint – Asian Paints
Firm’s Website Link: Ark Architecture Studio
The Firm’s Instagram Link: Ark Architecture Studio
Firm’s Facebook Link: Ark Architecture Studio
For Similar Projects >> Terrace House Design Attempts to be Distinct in a Dense Neighbourhood
In a landscape where aspiration quietly waits, Granthalay emerges as a circular building and sanctuary for learning—gathering people, knowledge, and place into a shared civic moment. Granthalay is conceived as a civic institution that extends beyond the conventional idea of a library, responding to the acute lack of educational and community infrastructure in the district […]
A dilapidated old manor house in Jaffna peninsula, with warped roof beams, warped door windows and many structural defects were presented to the architects for refurbishment- by clients- to be refurbished as a retirement home for themselves who were returning to Sri Lanka after escaping to overseas due to the 25 years old North East […]
This residence is a sincere exploration of how architecture can remain simple, climate sensitive, cost-effective, and emotionally grounded, without compromising on spatial quality or design intent. Conceived as a 3BHK modest home for a small family, the project stands as a testament to what is possible when thoughtful planning, craft-oriented construction, and material intelligence come […]
Design, when it emerges as a living tapestry, turns the experience of living into a vibrant everyday narrative. Baldota House in Alandi, Pune by ARCHOS accommodates three generations under a single roof in the area spanning 7500 Sq. Ft. Spearheaded by the family’s desire for a generous space and a theatrical essence along with balanced […]
Few homes are celebrated for their iconic interiors, while some are celebrated for their open layouts. True to its unique context and subtleties, this home with a monochromatic palette, designed by Ar. Saumya Khanna & Ar. Sudhir Ambawata Co – founders & principle architects of SSDA Architects brings the essence of volumetric design and a […]
Adopting sustainable living today, both in design and daily life, is crucial for reducing our environmental footprint and preserving resources for future generations. In the design of this bamboo pavilion, this means using eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient technologies, and creating spaces that harmonize with natural surroundings. In daily living, sustainability involves mindful consumption, reducing waste, conserving […]
Tucked into the lush landscape of Thiruvananthapuram, Aashiyana is a residence that balances context, climate, and craft. Designed by architect Srijit Srinivas, this bungalow is conceived as more than a tropical retreat-it is a spatial journey where bold colour, filtered light, and thoughtful materials orchestrate a distinctive atmosphere. Nestled Amidst Lush Landscape Aashiyana Balances Craft […]
Situated on a compact 1200 sft south-west corner plot, this residence was conceived as an inward-looking sanctuary for a family of four — a home that balances privacy and openness, light and enclosure, within the dense urban fabric. This Residence Was Conceived As An Inward-Looking Sanctuary For A Family Of Four | The Insideout Studio […]
Project 1374 is located in one of the plotted developments in the north of Bangalore, characterized by well-demarcated plots, open spaces, spacious roads, and organized infrastructure. Trees flank the wide streets, dividing the plots with dense canopies offering shaded avenues. Abutting the plot stood a cluster of trees- a quiet presence. We borrowed these trees […]
‘Roots’ was an experiment to build sustainably but not confer to the design language typically associated with sustainable buildings. This residential project re-considers the expression of sustainable architecture through a minimalist and materially grounded lens. Located on a 4,000 sq.ft. plot, the designers conceived the house for a family of three and their pet, organizing […]