Designed for Mr. C A Saleem and family, this residence is located in the interiors of Thrissur with paddy fields on the way which lured them in getting this plot for their new residence. Mr. Saleem being one of the prominent business figures of Kerala was always sure to have a great many of visitors and guest from all over Kerala as well as around the world. The requirement brief from Mr. Saleem was to have a reduced version of his existing house which is nearly 8000 sqft, without any compromise on the facilities. These were the two key factors that lead us while developing the design of the house. We took up the challenge of re scaling his requirements keeping in mind his position in society.

Keeping in mind the kind of visitors and guest he has to host, the common areas were designed to be more spacious follow an open concept. The foyer area along with passages was designed in such a way, it felt as if the mistress is courting the guest to the interiors of the house in elegance. Skylights have been provided in the foyer and guest dining area with louvered ventilations. The double height area in the foyer is provided with skylight which ensures maximum sunlight to the interiors. The passage from foyer leads to guest dining and ladies living flowing out to a common space that acted as a buffer area between the prayer, kitchen, guest dining and common wash area. This buffer zone was an essential during the time they throw up party, regular gatherings as well as during “Iftar” feasts. The double height area in the ladies living along with staircase is another family zone that’s airy and well lighted. While designing the ladies living, privacy was ensured, keeping in mind their religious culture. But the same was done without hindering the open concept. The ground floor also accommodates a common resting/gathering space for ladies. Each bedroom was designed on different concepts with a common factor binding them which was the usage of white colour in all rooms. The furniture detailing was done considering minimum maintenance. Similarly the outhouse provision was altered and shifted to first floor which helped in saving the land area and giving complete privacy to the occupants.

No effort was required for making the client aware of energy conservation as that was one of his requirements. The interiors are provided with large spanned openings ensuring maximum light to the interiors. The external facades are designed with double height wedge walls and glass shades. This area was treated with natural stone cladding. The exterior feature of continuous lines was also followed in the interior panels and ceiling designs. Several design techniques were implemented in reducing the heat accumulation inside the residence. We were indeed able to plan the residence with all facilities that he had enjoyed in his previous residence in a more compact and minimalistic ways that extended from exterior to the interior detailing.