Architecture

21-05-2026

Photographer : Ar. Varun Gopal

Text provided by Architect

Located in the mountain town of Sulthan Bathery, Kerala, the residence is set within a steeply sloping site that descends towards the east, reflecting the undulating character of the region’s highland terrain. The natural topography, while initially presenting clear construction challenges, also offered the opportunity to develop an architecture closely informed by the land itself. Rather than imposing a conventional building platform onto the site, the design approach sought to work with the existing contours, allowing the house to emerge as a measured and site-responsive intervention.

As the plot lacked naturally level areas suitable for construction, the first design move involved carefully grading the terrain to establish two functional ground levels. This strategy enabled the built form to be distributed across the slope with minimal excavation and limited fill, reducing the need for large retaining walls or aggressive land modification. By responding to the site in this manner, the project preserves much of the natural character of the landscape while achieving practical and structural efficiency. The resulting relationship between building and terrain feels settled and balanced, as though the house has found its place within the hillside rather than been placed upon it.

The residence is conceived as a single-storeyed living experience arranged across these two levels. Two distinct building volumes are positioned along the slope and brought together beneath a continuous sloping roof that follows the natural gradient of the site. This roof establishes the primary architectural language of the project, creating a unifying gesture that ties the different levels into one coherent form. During the design process, what was initially envisioned as a simple descending roof plane was refined through the inversion of the roof over the upper block. This adjustment introduced greater internal height, improved natural light, and a stronger sense of spatial openness within the upper rooms, while maintaining the overall harmony of the composition.

Wayanad,Kerala,India

Architects : SOHO Architects
Area : 7061 sq. ft.
Year of Completion : 2025
Website : https://www.instagram.com/sohoarchitects

Entry Porch of Valley House by SOHO Architects


Exterior view of Valley House by SOHO Architects


Sitout of Valley House by SOHO Architects


Living room of Valley House by SOHO Architects

Entry to the residence occurs at the lower level, where the more social and communal functions of the house are located. The living, dining, and kitchen spaces open directly to the lower yard, creating an immediate connection between indoor life and the landscape beyond. These areas are designed as the active centre of the home, where daily routines and shared moments unfold in close relationship with the outdoors. Generous openings frame views of the surrounding greenery and allow natural light to move deeply into the interior spaces.


Living room of Valley House by SOHO Architects


Living room of Valley House by SOHO Architects


Family living of Valley House by SOHO Architects


Family living of Valley House by SOHO Architects


Indoor Court of Valley House by SOHO Architects


Patio of Valley House by SOHO Architects


Staircase of Valley House by SOHO Architects

The upper level accommodates the private quarters, offering a quieter and more secluded atmosphere. Bedrooms and personal retreat spaces are positioned here to benefit from privacy, elevated views, and a stronger sense of calm. Each room extends onto a patio or garden court, allowing the interiors to spill outward into intimate open spaces. These external rooms become an important part of the living experience, supporting moments of pause, rest, and engagement with the changing climate and seasons.

Along the southern edge of the house, two semi-circular courts are formed through curved plug-in walls that project gently from the main structure. Beyond their sculptural presence, these elements serve an environmental function by buffering the interiors from harsh southern sun and heavy monsoon rain. They also create shaded outdoor pockets adjacent to the living areas, making these spaces comfortable and usable throughout much of the year.


Bedroom 1 of Valley House by SOHO Architects


Bedroom 2 of Valley House by SOHO Architects

In contrast, the northern façade opens more generously through large glazed panels, allowing the principal rooms to look out onto the surrounding landscape while drawing in soft, even daylight. This orientation enhances visual openness and creates interiors that feel calm, bright, and connected to nature. The upper block is further complemented by a long shaded patio and a western garden court, both of which act as transitional spaces between inside and outside. The elevated upper block is further distinguished by these quiet intermediary spaces, which deepen the home’s engagement with nature and encourage a slower, more contemplative way of living.


Bedroom 2 of Valley House by SOHO Architects


Roof top of Valley House by SOHO Architects


Ground Floor Plan of Valley House by SOHO Architects


First Floor Plan of Valley House by SOHO Architects


Section of Valley House by SOHO Architects




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