When a Kerala-based family reached out to Durga Sarath Architects, their ask was simple: “a space suitable for hosting gatherings with family and friends, while also serving as a private retreat.” Situated amid lush greenery on a sprawling one-acre plot in Kuttikkanam, Kerala, this property is perched at the highest vantage point in the area, far from the hustle and bustle of city life. The silence is gently broken by the sounds of birds and insects, and the air is fresh and clean. Both the architects and homeowners agreed on a unifying vision: to design a space that mirrors the natural beauty surrounding it.
“When we visited, it was such a commanding site with heavy contours that images came crowding in. The landscape was an essential element to develop this project along with the site topography since a larger part of the site consisted of stones” says Sarath Kumar and Durga Cholapurath, Principal and Partner Architect respectively.
The design concept focused on creating a flexible space where visual amplitude and the connection to nature were paramount. Positioned at the far end of the plot, the house is designed with a linear plan that emphasizes a generous and welcoming entrance. The layout revolves around social spaces, ensuring that all areas of the home are interconnected, promoting functionality and fluidity.
“We believe a home is always a mental state of mind and the Deck House is where tranquillity and comfort interact to create a space for guests of all ages” says Sarath and Durga.
To maximize the breathtaking views, particularly those oriented towards the south, glass doors were strategically incorporated. This design choice creates a cohesive visual language for the main façade. The deck, a central feature of the project, serves as a focal The choice of materials was guided by their environmental suitability and functionality. A striking green entrance door, flanked by robust stone walls, leads visitors through an open veranda to an expansive deck. This entrance serves as both a practical and aesthetic unifier of the home.
Each room has been designed to frame the surrounding landscapes, adding depth to the spatial experience. Instead of traditional solid walls, glass elements were used to maintain a connection with the natural environment. When the glass doors are opened, the interior transforms into an extension of the veranda, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor spaces.
The interior palette draws inspiration from nature, with living, dining, and kitchen areas harmoniously aligned with the bedroom through consistent tones and natural materials such as stone and wood. point, with private and social spaces meticulously planned to enhance both solitude and social interaction.
To address varying needs for privacy and openness, sliding wooden doors were incorporated on the first floor. These doors enable the creation of either intimate spaces for family moments or larger areas for social gatherings. The first-floor veranda enhances the spatial experience by maximizing natural light, cross ventilation, and a closer connection to nature.
The construction process was both demanding and rigorous, with a focus on reinforcing foundations and implementing post-tensioned slabs. In addition to the main residence, the project included three special structures: a pool, a bar, and an outhouse, each meticulously designed to complement the primary dwelling.
Homes like this are just a hill away!
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FACT FILE:
Project Name – Deck House
Firm Name- Durga Sarath Architects
Location – Idukki, Kerala
Design Team- Sarath Kumar, Principal Architect; Durga Cholapurath, Partner Architect; Vishnu Nath, Senior Architect; Aswathy P R and Ajay Krishnan, Junior Architect
Built Up Area – 4752 sqft
Plot Area – 5403 sqm
Photo courtesy- Syam Sreesylam