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Architecture

22-07-2025

Photographer : Turtle Arts Photography (Shahul Shibili)

This single-storey sustainable home in Ezhupunna, Alappuzha blends traditional Kerala architecture with tropical design. Inspired by the “kulakkadavu” concept, a central pond encourages family interaction while enhancing the landscape. Despite being near lakes and beaches, adding a pond improves year-round moisture and cooling, especially during hot months. With wide openings, the home benefits from natural ventilation and sunlight, creating a bright, airy space. The perennial water supply makes the pond both a practical and aesthetic feature in this eco-friendly design.

The site was originally a dense forest, now transformed into a beautiful, sustainable home in Kerala’s tropical setting. Given the region's heavy rainfall, an efficient water conservation system was designed as per the client’s vision. Rainwater is collected from the sloped roof and stored in two reservoirs—one rainwater tank and a connected pond within the landscape. Overflow water channels into a nearby fish pond. Additionally, a bio-septic system treats used water, which is then reused for irrigation. This integrated setup ensures maximum rainwater harvesting, soil absorption, and zero water wastage—making the project self-sufficient without relying on external water sources.

They are maintaining the ecosystem, protecting water resources, and conserving them for future use. By storing water in the pond, they also raise fish, making use of the space efficiently. The nutrient-rich pond water is then used to grow vegetables and fruits, applying the principles of aquaponics. This method supports sustainable farming. The site has also been developed into a farmhouse, integrating nature, farming, and water conservation in one eco- friendly space.

Water is efficiently managed within the landscape, while solar power and other sustainable systems were installed altogether, this ensures the residents can live comfortably without relying on external resources.

Alappuzha,Kerala,India

Architects	:	Judson Associates Architects and Interiors
Area	:	3400 sq. ft.
Year of Completion	:	2024
Website	:	https://www.instagram.com/judsonassociates/