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Architecture

2023

Photographer : Running Studios and Studio IKSHA

Urul, nestled amidst the serene landscapes of Wayanad, exemplifies the harmonious integration of architecture and nature. The two-bedroom residence, tailored for a nature-loving couple, offers an immersive experience, inviting the beauty of its surroundings into everyday life honoring nature's colors and elements. Positioned with a rocky hill as its backdrop, a panoramic view of Chembra Peak upfront, and the Indian Rosewood tree as a focal point, the house is carefully placed to blend with the terrain. Its cantilevered ground floor design minimizes disturbance to the earth below while also creating a sense of the balcony. The detailed environmental study led to the identification of two paleochannels (ancient riverbeds) flowing underground respecting to which the well was placed.

Perfectly attuned to its context, the residence ensures that every journey offers captivating views. From the C-shaped entrance bay, a circular cutout frames the Chembra Peak, setting the stage for the scenic journey ahead. The living room and master bedroom continue this theme, with glass replacing the south wall, inviting the outside in. The open layout of the interior space is thoughtfully designed with each perspective carefully controlled to frame either an exterior or interior view.

The master bedroom features strategically placed circular cutouts in the east wall, providing natural ventilation and capturing views of the surroundings. The bridge connecting the kitchen to the rest of the block, flanked by glass, further blurs the lines between nature and architecture.

Urul's construction is a masterful fusion of traditional techniques and modern innovation, utilizing local materials and craftsmanship to create a timeless structure. Through research, including interviews with elderly masons and local tribes, valuable insights were gained on building in harmony with nature, using sustainable techniques and materials sourced directly from the site.

Wayanad,Kerala,India

Architects	:	Studio Terratects
Area	:	1600 sq.ft.
Year	:	2023
Website	:	https://www.instagram.com/terratects/

Exterior view of Urul by Studio Terratects

Entrance of Urul by Studio Terratects

This innovative approach has had a profound impact on the native way of building. The mud plastering technique, where mud is mixed with natural binders and applied by hand, researched to ensure waterproofing and insect-proof qualities, was taught to local artisans, who have since adopted it in new constructions. The mature Indian Rosewood tree is a central feature of Urul, woven effortlessly into the architectural design, symbolizing the deep connection between the home and its context. As one ascends to the first-floor bedroom, the intimate relationship with the tree becomes apparent, offering occupants a unique view and imbuing the space with a sense of natural charm and drama.

Transitioning vertically, the staircase's supporting wall, designed with organic shapes and circular cutouts, conceals the beam while offering the sights of the hilly backdrop. Each step ascends toward the upper bridge, extending to the bedroom and balcony, where glass partitions capture northern panoramas.

The building, ingeniously designed to maximize natural light and ventilation, has spaces thoughtfully planned to capture the interplay of light and drama throughout the day. The pooja space at the entrance, illuminated by skylight, exudes a divine atmosphere and adds to the interplay of light. The reclaimed horizontal wooden logs locally called shavock on the ceilings of the living area and first floor cast striking shadows on the walls throughout the day, while the circular cutouts in the metal staircase create playful patterns underneath. This transforms the house into a living sundial, allowing residents to effortlessly gauge the time of day by observing the shifting shadows, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal.

Living room of Urul by Studio Terratects

The site with a history of landslides and the rocky hill which directs rainwater, turning certain parts of the site into waterfalls during heavy rainfalls, posed quite a challenge for the direct construction of the residence. To address these challenges, a solution was devised after studying the site. This involved digging up the identified landslide paths of the plot up to 2 meters deep, filling these trenches with rocks to compact the soil to create artificial drainage. A retaining wall on the rear side acts as a buffer space incase of any stone fall. This spot is also used for setting up the well. Bamboo (Dendrocalamus Giganteus) was introduced to tighten the soil, making it more stable.

Urul stands as an architectural masterpiece crafted from the earth, in close collaboration with the local tribe using locally available materials and techniques. The mud plaster not only regulates the building's temperature, but it also celebrates the beauty of hand-applied finishes, showcasing charming imperfections that add character to the structure. The 300 mm thick filler slab between floors enhances natural insulation, providing thermal comfort while ensuring structural stability.

Every piece of furniture in this residence tells a story of craftsmanship and local pride. Designed and handcrafted by skilled artisans using materials from the surrounding area, each item is a testament to the beauty of sustainability and community collaboration. The coffee table in the living area, once a splendid tree towering on the land, now serves as a captivating centerpiece, bringing nature indoors. Salvaged from the site where it had fallen gracefully, the tree finds a new purpose in furnishing the residence, symbolizing sustainability and honoring its natural journey within the architectural space.

Bridge to living space of Urul by Studio Terratects

Dining of Urul by Studio Terratects

Further showcasing its adaptability, the same tree has been repurposed into stools for the dining table, study area, and toilet, adding a touch of rustic charm and continuity throughout the residence. The furniture not only embodies sustainability and resourcefulness but also preserves the tree's legacy through every knot and grain, weaving its story into the architectural narrative.

The dining table, with a grand root as its centerpiece supporting a sleek glass top, harmoniously blends rustic allure with contemporary elegance. The wall skirting running throughout the residence and the first floor bridge, made from coconut wood sourced from the site, infused a tropical flair into the building's design, further enhancing its unique character.

Each light sculpture, envisioned by the architect and skillfully brought to life by the artisans, is handcrafted using locally available canes. These unique lamps now adorn various interior spaces, adding an exquisite finishing touch to the decor.

Urul exemplifies the harmonious integration of the building with its environment while inviting nature indoors without compromising sustainability. It offers a visual feast, showcasing nature inspired construction and ensuring occupants experience every facet of the environment without leaving the comfort of home. Promising a sustainable approach to both building and living, it maintains unwavering quality throughout.