Indian studio Evolving Radical Aesthetics unveils Ushas, a remarkable retreat nestled into the steep hillsides of Kerala. This architectural gem, situated near Kozhikode in Malabar, was designed for a retired couple seeking a return to nature.
Innovative Design in Kerala’s Traditional Farmhouses
The home is structured with three staggered volumes, echoing the region’s traditional farmhouses. Designed to harmonize with the landscape, its layout follows the natural contours of the site. “The terrain became our datum,” said principal architect Muhammed Ashiqe. “It dictated orientation, levels, movement, structural logic, even materiality.”
The property is constructed from locally sourced black granite formed into robust masonry walls, topped with a corrugated galvanised steel and Mangalore tile roof. This design shelters verandahs and mitigates the impact of Kerala’s intense monsoons. “We wanted the house to blend seamlessly with the environment,” noted landscape architect AR Rumna. The home’s design ensures longevity and harmony with its surroundings.
A Home That Melds with Its Environment
A key feature is the passage weaving between stone volumes, seamlessly connecting living areas, bedrooms, and the surrounding farmland. This pathway also leads to a tranquil reading room with glass walls that open to the picturesque landscape, a hallmark of this architectural style.
The design includes shelters for farmworkers aligning with rooms for them. Generous openings frame breathtaking views, while verandahs supported by slender columns extend interior spaces outdoors. The choice of granite enhances the farmhouse’s resilience, a defining characteristic of such structures in the region.
To see another unique use of local materials, discover how the Harvest Moon Table was built from biomaterials, showcasing a clever mix of tradition and innovation.
The building captures north-eastern winds, with thick granite walls providing cool interiors. The house’s deep overhangs offer protection from the elements, creating shaded verandahs perfect for relaxation.
Preserving Nature and Culture
The architects innovatively addressed the challenge of high winds by reinforcing the tile roof with corrugated steel, securing the structure and directing rainwater effectively, characteristic of a well-planned retreat in this style.
At the property’s lower level, granite steps lead to an open-air temple carved into a retaining wall. Above it, the living room extends over the temple, evoking the serenity of ancient cave sanctuaries. This area doubles as a meditation spot, complete with a stone podium facing the mountains.
“The temple integrated into the retaining wall with the overhead room is reminiscent of a space for reflection,” Rumna explains.
The surrounding landscape mirrors the home’s architecture with stepped planting areas and pathways. Initially barren, the gardens have transformed with the owners’ planting of native species, evolving with the land.
Founded in 2012 by Rumna and Ashiqe, Evolving Radical Aesthetics is renowned for its residential projects that intertwine with local climates, materials, and terrain, evident in their bespoke designs.
For more inspiring design stories in regions like Kerala, explore how MARS Architectes revitalized Parisian heritage with a sustainable makeover that respects local history.
Other notable homes in Kerala include Mindspark Architects’ Summer Home and Ananda by Thought Parallels Architecture, highlighting the use of Mangalore tiles and native materials in modern architecture.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
What architectural style does Ushas follow?
Ushas follows a design inspired by traditional Kerala farmhouses, using three staggered volumes that echo the region’s architectural style.
How does the Ushas design integrate with the environment?
The home’s design harmonizes with the landscape, following the site’s natural contours and using locally sourced granite. Its verandahs and structural elements blend with the surroundings, ensuring longevity and environmental integration.
How does the house handle Kerala’s monsoon climate?
The house uses a combination of black granite masonry walls and a corrugated steel roof to mitigate the impact of intense monsoons and capture north-eastern winds for cool interiors. Deep overhangs and shaded verandahs offer further protection from the elements.