Can black and white be called colourful? Studio HOF answers through this Kerala home

This Kerala home by Studio HOF unfolds in a serene rubber plantation, where the home owners envisioned a residence that synthesises functionality, aesthetics and environmental stewardship. The brief for White Box, as it is called by the residents, was a space that exemplifies minimalist purity and grace while ensuring optimal spatial utility and fluidity. The design conundrum was to craft a domicile that not only adhered to these practical requisites but also cultivated an atmosphere of tranquil repose.

The design philosophy of White Box is grounded in minimalism, deftly fused with utility and refined aesthetics. The aspiration was to create a residence defined by austere lines and smooth contours, imparting a profound sense of serenity upon entry. The approach embraces a minimalist schema, enriched with textural sophistication, to forge an environment that is both restrained and sumptuous.

A prominent feature of the White Box project was the deployment of local craftsmanship and sustainable materials. The interior is distinguished by exposed concrete ceilings and textured walls, complemented by in-situ cast cement pavers with pearl grass accents. The restrained color palette, consisting of muted tones, harmonizes with the light grey concrete ceiling, fostering a cohesive and placid ambiance.

The selection of materials was also influenced by considerations of frugality. The exposed concrete finish not only augments the aesthetic allure but also provides cost efficiency by obviating the need for plastering and painting. This pragmatic approach aligns with the project’s minimalist ethos while remaining economically judicious.

The colour scheme for White Box was meticulously crafted to reflect the minimalist design ethos. The residence predominantly features shades of white, cement, and green, which accentuate the clean, unadorned lines of the design and contribute to an overall sense of calm. To introduce visual dynamism and prevent monotony, contrasting furniture pieces were strategically incorporated, offering vibrant splashes of color.

Encompassing 1,800 square feet on a 7.5 cent plot, the residence showcases robustness and resilience through its open-plan layout and contemporary design. The integration of functional aesthetics and modern principles underscores the firm’s commitment to crafting spaces that are both visually arresting and pragmatically sound.

“One of the major challenge the we had to overcome while designing was to accommodate the features of a modern residence within the limited area” says the team at Studio HOF. The solution involved employing expansive apertures, clean geometric forms and custom-crafted furniture to enhance the perception of space. These design elements not only facilitated abundant natural light but also framed sweeping vistas of the surrounding hills and rubber plantations.

The expansive openings afford panoramic views, linking the interior with the exterior and providing the occupants with a perfect retreat for relaxation. The design adeptly balances functionality with aesthetic appeal, demonstrating a thoughtful response to the site’s constraints and opportunities.

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In essence, the White Box project represents a masterful blend of minimalism and modern living. By addressing the client’s vision with precision and overcoming design challenges with ingenuity, the project achieves a harmonious synthesis of form and function within a serene locale.

FACT FILE:

Name of the project: White Box

Firm Name: Studio HOF

Design Team and Designation: Ar.Subin (Lead architect), Ar.Alina kurian(architect), Joelin Joji( Junior Architect)

Location of the project: Aluva, Kerala

Area (sq.ft): 1,800 sq ft

Photo courtesy: Divya Rajesh