Cradled amidst stretches of vast greenery, paddy fields and sprawling rubber plantations in Kottayam, this residential project by TPA and Reuben, seamlessly blends vernacular architecture of Kerala with contemporary elements, offering an invigorating design approach to a rooted yet modern dwelling. 

This home is a quintessential Kerala house layout – characterized by its sloping roofs, central courtyards, and extensive use of timber. Instead of confining living spaces within four walls, the intention was to create a fluid, open-plan layout where spaces seamlessly flow into one another, retaining the connection with nature. The intriguing interplay is created by juxtaposed volumes topped by pitched roofs around the central nucleus that is the courtyard, connected by corridors covered with a single flat roof.

This sensitive approach to space planning offers unparalleled flexibility. Rooms are no longer rigidly defined entities but adaptable spaces that can be closed off when privacy is needed. It's a home that breathes and evolves with its inhabitants, a living entity in its own right.

Kottayam,Kerala,India

Architects : Thomas Parambil Architects
Area : 7500 sq. ft.
Year of Completion : 2024
Website : https://www.instagram.com/thomas_parambil_architects

Exterior view of The House of Quad by Thomas Parambil Architects


Exterior view of The House of Quad by Thomas Parambil Architects


Exterior view of The House of Quad by Thomas Parambil Architects

The project serves as a precedent for environmentally conscious architecture. Oriented to harness the natural wind flow, the home has an ingenious feature- a Jali wall. This perforated screen prioritises natural ventilation and lighting. Combined with the open layout, this element ensures that the interior remains comfortable even on the hottest days, significantly reducing the need for artificial cooling. Maximizing sunlight penetration, natural light floods the spaces throughout the day. The project demonstrates how modern homes can be both comfortable and sustainable, reducing their carbon footprint without compromising on livability. Furthermore, the singularly large 600 square feet Lily Pond assists in altering the home's microclimate and adding serenity to this already muted and calm abode.


External staircase to upper floor of The House of Quad by Thomas Parambil Architects


Verandah of The House of Quad by Thomas Parambil Architects


Living room of The House of Quad by Thomas Parambil Architects


Living room of The House of Quad by Thomas Parambil Architects


Courtyard of The House of Quad by Thomas Parambil Architects


Passage to dining area of The House of Quad by Thomas Parambil Architects


Passage to dining area of The House of Quad by Thomas Parambil Architects


Dining of The House of Quad by Thomas Parambil Architects

The home houses mindfully mapped sleek furniture designed to aesthetically represent the confluence of the architects Kerala roots and Bangalore's modernity. 

Amidst the labyrinth of volumes, there's yet another strikingly bold feature, its colossal cantilever evoking a sense of grandeur and bold craftmanship. This dramatic element transforms the otherwise old world looking architectural form into a modern contemporary home.

With its thoughtful integration of tradition, innovation and sustainability, this four- bedroom residence by TPA and Reuben in Kottayam Cradled by the backwaters and the Western Ghats, is a true testament of permutating anthropology in Architecture and design.


Hand wash nook of The House of Quad by Thomas Parambil Architects


Kitchen of The House of Quad by Thomas Parambil Architects


Corridor of The House of Quad by Thomas Parambil Architects


Waterbody of The House of Quad by Thomas Parambil Architects


Waterbody of The House of Quad by Thomas Parambil Architects


Bedroom of The House of Quad by Thomas Parambil Architects


Elevations of The House of Quad by Thomas Parambil Architects


Ground Floor Plan of The House of Quad by Thomas Parambil Architects


First Floor Plan of The House of Quad by Thomas Parambil Architects


Section of The House of Quad by Thomas Parambil Architects




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