The timeless charm of Kerala homes needs to be studied! The terracotta roofs, courtyards bathed in natural light, and the smooth confluence of tradition and modernity. Rooted in nature yet forward-looking, these homes embody the balance between introversion and extroversion, solitude and communion. ‘Aadhya’, designed by Studio Pragvi, is a poetic expression of this delicate interplay—a home that embraces both the tactile richness of Kerala’s architectural heritage and the elegance of contemporary design.
A Vision of Harmony
The genesis of this home stemmed from a family’s desire to create more than just a dwelling. They envisioned a space that would enhance their emotional and physical well-being while breaking free from traditional residential conventions. Studio Pragvi responded with a design that artfully weaves together introverted and extroverted spaces, creating a dynamic interplay between private sanctuaries and social gathering spots.
A Suburban Canvas
Situated in a suburban residential area of West Vellanikkara in Thrissur, Kerala, Aadhya rests on a north-facing rectangular plot bordered by residential blocks on three sides and an approach road on the fourth. The terrain is largely flat, save for an existing well on the northwest side, offering a blank canvas for a home that would seamlessly integrate with its surroundings.
A Balance of Contrasts
Aadhya is a home where dualities thrive. The architecture weaves together private and communal spaces, promoting an environment that is both nurturing and expansive. Every surface and volume is meticulously curated to tell a story—of materiality, light, and interaction. The spaces breathe, inviting both solitude and shared moments, making Aadhya not just a home but a living, evolving experience.
An Ode to Texture
Upon arrival, a pathway of Kadappa stone leads visitors to the entrance, framed by a striking brick wall and Kotta stone steps. A cantilevered verandah hovers over a lush garden, supported by slender columns that add to the visual lightness of the structure. The cantilevered bedroom above the formal living area enhances the home’s floating aesthetic, further accentuated by exposed brick walls and large wooden-framed windows.
The outdoor sit-out, enveloped in greenery, becomes a retreat of tranquility. Built-in seating follows a graceful curve, offering a space for quiet reflection. The use of polished granite, exposed concrete, and metal railings creates a dialogue between rawness and refinement.
The living room is a warm embrace of earthy tones and rustic textures. Exposed brick walls, a raw concrete ceiling, and a built-in sofa define the space, complemented by cane-weave chairs and a circular jute rug. Jaali bricks and expansive windows orchestrate a delicate play of light and shadow, allowing nature to become an integral part of the interiors.
Beyond the living area, the home flows into a sunken family space, dining zone, and semi-open kitchen. The kitchen embodies modern industrial aesthetics with raw concrete ceilings, contrasting white tiles, sleek green cabinetry, and black countertops. Open wooden shelving adds warmth, while indoor plants soften the composition, bringing in a sense of freshness.
The staircase, a sculptural element in itself, marries minimalism with warmth. A soaring ceiling invites natural light, while a floating concrete staircase ensures a sense of openness. Custom seating and vibrant artwork inject personality, resulting in a space that is as functional as it is expressive.
The Upper Level
The master bedroom is a study in elegance and simplicity. Crisp white walls act as a canvas for a bold green slanted ceiling, reminiscent of Kerala’s verdant landscapes. A wooden bed with clean lines, a cane-weave chair, and indoor plants reinforce the connection to nature. A nostalgic wooden shutter frames a serene atrium view, and a cosy seating nook completes the tranquil setting.
The cantilevered bedroom, positioned on the north, balances intimacy and functionality. Clerestory windows, sloping green roofs, and glass block partitions bring in diffused light while maintaining privacy. Neutral tones and subdued textures amplify the sense of calm, making the space ideal for reflection and retreat.
The Floating Effect
One of the home’s defining architectural moments is the cantilevered bedroom that extends over two meters above the formal living area, supported solely on stilts at one end. The challenge lay in designing inverted beams to achieve this gravity-defying feat while ensuring structural stability. The delicate balance of material and technique results in an illusion of floating—a poetic nod to the lightness and fluidity inherent in Aadhya’s design.
A Sanctuary of Balance
Aadhya captures the ethos of Kerala’s timeless architectural language while pushing the boundaries of modern living. Every brick, beam, and space tells a story of mindful design, resilience, and the pursuit of harmony. In conclusion, it’s a blueprint for how contemporary Indian architecture can respond to the needs of modern families while pushing the boundaries of design and engineering.
FACT FILE:
Project name: Aadhya
Design firm: Pragvi
Pragvi is the fulfillment of a shared dream—four friends from architecture school united by a vision to create meaningful spaces. The name “Pragvi,” meaning “to ascend,” reflects our journey and aspiration to design spaces that inspire and uplift.
Each of us brings a unique perspective, blending creativity, functionality, and passion to craft designs that are both beautiful and purposeful. We believe architecture should feel personal, telling a story shaped by those who experience it.
Area (in sq.ft): 2,350
Location: Thrissur, Kerala, India
Project architect: Ar. Nanda Gopal
Client: Ms. Sumithra O S , Mr. Visakh I P
Photography: Marc Frames