Alex Jacob

The site was a part of a rubber estate situated an hour's drive from Palakkad, Kerala. I knew that the building must flow with the site contours yet from the outside not look like a vertical composition that was not in sync with the rural setting.

The design is a joyous expression of multi level spaces that are easily negotiated with short flights of stairs, several vantage points that give a fabulous view to the outdoor, where rich foliage is in abundance, as well as to get to see the expanse and spaces within. The large terrace has planting on two sides that will eventually offer privacy once the plants grow.

Vaastu compliant, bright and airy, the focal point may be considered the centrally located puja room in the middle of a water body, accessed by a glass bridge. Exotic timber veneer adorns doors, wall panels and furniture. A large external water body, abundant lawns and an open well all co-exist, whilst the chequered stone paving is the only element that is hard top, yet there is no concrete underlay, enabling water percolation.

No Earth left the Site.
Windows are in teak. The porch and gate 'darwaza' have metal structures clad with 'Viroc' cement board. The roof of the porch and sit-out on the terrace has puff sheets with shingles overlay. Italian marble in the common area gives the interiors a sense of vastness and visual fluidity. The emphasis on cross ventilation and larger glass windows to the North and East, shaded openings and large volume allows the house to remain cool even in summer.

The house took about eighteen months to complete.