Excerpt: Central Courtyard House by Bhoomija Creations showcases the traditional ‘nalukettu’ style of Kerala architecture, evoking architectural concepts and memories of a bygone era. The residence, surrounded by lush greenery, features a courtyard, which serves as the focal point, with all the main spaces oriented around it. Using locally sourced materials, a harmonious space where man and nature coexist is created.
Project Description
[Text as submitted by architect] There was a time when buildings relied solely on their architectural design to withstand the weather. In tropical regions, various methods were employed to reduce heat: verandas and large roof overhangs protected south-west facing walls from intense sun exposure, courtyards allowed hot air to escape, wind-catchers brought in cool breezes, and sloping roofs directed hot air upwards. These traditional techniques offer valuable lessons, especially as modern buildings often rely heavily on machinery to maintain comfort. By combining today’s technological advancements with the wisdom of the past, we can create better buildings.
This house, designed with a central courtyard, exemplifies the traditional ‘nalukettu’ style. For Malayalis, ‘nadumutam’ and ‘nalukettu’ evoke not just architectural concepts but memories of a bygone era. Some view these designs with nostalgia, while others see them as timeless solutions perfectly suited for tropical climates. The ‘nalukettu’ design is versatile, adaptable for both small and large buildings, and remains relevant today.
This house is situated in the heart of a village that resonates with the literary legacies of MT Vasudevan Nair and Edassery, who immortalized Valluvanad’s Pootham through his poem Poothapattu. The village offers a perfect atmosphere for a home surrounded by coconut and betelnut trees, and a long stone path leading to it.
Is an international style necessary for such a project? The architects believe it is not. By using locally sourced materials, they have aimed to create a harmonious space where man and nature coexist. Designers have a responsibility to minimize the environmental impact of construction and to provide the best sustainable options. This scorching summer serves as a stark reminder of global warming and the importance of adopting sustainable building practices.
The building is designed to be fully enjoyed within its lush green surroundings. The front porch offers a view of the outdoor patio, while inside, the courtyard ensures privacy and provides a focal point for the home’s layout. From the kitchen, one can see visitors arriving. Entering the house, the inner courtyard is the first sight, with all main spaces oriented around it. There is ample window seating near the patio for a breezy nap, along with facilities for children’s study, a cot or armchair for relaxation, a spacious living room, a prayer room, a dining room, and a kitchen. Privacy and modern amenities are well-integrated, with four bedrooms on the ground floor and a family living room with a balcony and two additional bedrooms upstairs. The courtyard and surrounding veranda seamlessly connect the two floors.
The main building materials are laterite blocks and stone, with a tiled roof supported by a steel truss. The lower tiled ceiling helps to reduce heat. Wooden pillars reused from old buildings add character and sustainability. Many walls feature polished plaster, while others reveal the laterite walls, resulting in minimal painted surfaces. The light streaming through the courtyard and custom wooden windows is a highlight, enhancing the house with natural ventilation and illumination.
Every year, the Pootham in Poothapattu, which come seeking Unni’s house, are integral to life here. This house captures the timeless serenity and cultural essence of the region, with its graceful laterite arches evoking the charm of a folktale. As MT Vasudevan Nair aptly put it, such enduring memories, as precious as gold, can redeem a lost nation.
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