The Nalukettu house design is a hallmark of Kerala’s architectural heritage, rooted in the age-old Thachu Sasthra principles. Located in the heart of Thrissur, this stunning 5000 sq. ft. home is a modern interpretation of the traditional Kerala house. Designed by a passionate designer, Meera Pyarelal, with a deep understanding of heritage homes, this residence was created for a family of five spanning three generations, blending timeless aesthetics with cultural nostalgia.
Embracing the Essence of Nalukettu House Design
A defining feature of this Nalukettu house design is its central courtyard, known as the nadumuttam, which serves as the heart of the home. The structure is designed to ensure natural light and ventilation, fostering a serene and harmonious atmosphere. Long, steeply sloped roofs, gabled windows, and tall wooden pillars characterize the architecture, built to withstand Kerala’s heavy monsoons.
The entrance, or Padippura, leads into a spacious veranda, flanked by winding passageways on both sides. The house incorporates a seamless blend of stone, wood, and clay, materials deeply embedded in Kerala’s architectural identity. The front garden is thoughtfully landscaped with Ayurvedic plants and regional flowers, adding a touch of greenery and well-being to the space.
Designed from scratch on ancestral land, this home is more than just a dwelling; it is a tribute to the client’s cherished memories. The interiors reflect a bold yet refined palette. From emerald green brocade upholstery on the benches to canary yellow block-printed dining seats, each element adds vibrancy to the living spaces. The dining room is a visual delight, featuring a brass thali setting with Kerala fabric napkins and a repurposed wooden utensil as a centerpiece, adorned with tulsi and Aralipoo flowers.
A striking highlight of the house is the pooja room, where an exquisite mural of Yashoda and Krishna by artist S. Suneesh takes center stage, symbolizing the tender bond between mother and child. The master bedroom exudes vintage charm with a colonial bed, an oil painting of Carnatic singer M.S. Subbulakshmi, and a 200-year-old Karaikudi window sourced by the client.
A Designer’s Vision Rooted in Culture and Tradition
The meticulous attention to detail in this home is a testament to Meera’s expertise and passion for traditional Kerala architecture. Having worked closely with the client over two and a half years, she carefully curated antique elements and vibrant interiors to reflect the client’s love for heritage. The guest bedroom boasts a handcrafted headrest featuring vintage tiles from Temple Town, while the son’s room is adorned with a four-poster bed and a stunning Pichwai painting. Meera also incorporated a rare copy of Adhyatma Ramayanam Kilipattu, written by Thunchathu Ezhuthachan, as a backdrop for the colonial bed, a tribute to Kerala’s literary heritage.
This traditional Kerala home is a labor of love, brought to life through a deep and trusting collaboration between the client and designer. With its thoughtful curation of antique elements, vibrant interiors, and deep-rooted cultural essence, this Nalukettu home stands as a testament to the beauty of preserving tradition in a contemporary world.
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