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Sensual Serenity

“Simplicity at this best”- this perfectly describes the residence of Mr. Suresh Panicker & Meena. You can see a blend of traditionalism as well as modernism in this house designed by Architect Punnen C. Mathew of Design Combine Architects & Designers, Kakkanad, Cochin.

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“Simplicity at this best”- this perfectly describes the residence of Mr. Suresh Panicker & Meena. You can see a blend of traditionalism as well as modernism in this house designed by Architect Punnen C. Mathew of Design Combine Architects & Designers, Kakkanad, Cochin.

The house is located within the cramped urban limits at Thiruvananthapuram. But when explaining the requirement, the well travelled client’s demand was to create maximum space effect within the limits. Mr.Mathew achieved this by an uncluttered open house with an earthly warmth.

Drawing Room

Stairs and Dining from entry foyer

 Design Concept

The house was designed for a family of 4.  “As any typical Keralite requirement, the spaces must cater to the requirements of accommodating an extended family temporarily or permanently” says Mr. Mathew. The house again is located at the end of a 3m wide road, which made it necessary to treat the front of the house in a way that it looks broader and at the same time with enough privacy. The entrance faces the West, which created the requirement of working on fenestrations to cut off evening sun. This was achieved by maintaining minimum openings towards the west and with judicious use of sun shading louvers and sun breakers.

Although the house is based on a global design language, it is built using conventional building materials, which are cost effective and efficient. Along with maximum space utilisation, a spacious effect was created by having the core of the house -its living spaces connected at various levels as a single space. “This creates an illusion of a large heart to the house”, says Mr. Mathew. “The longitudinal spaces in the living spaces also visually enlarge a space”.

 

view of informal seating

vertical spine of the house

kitchen

Interiors and Colour Scheme

The over all design is open. The spaces are left with no clutters and with a classic underlying theme to ensure longevity.

 As per both local and international standards, earthy looks can be created by warm tones. Light tones are also fabulous and it works well with woody tones. Neutral colours always make a room seem costlier and all others colous and accessories will have a stunning accent along with the dominant light interior. These concepts have been applied here.

Also it is a common trend over the years to go back to the past as a reference point. No matter what ever the style you are adapting, a little touch of vintage glamour makes a bold style statement.

 

Spaces Inside

Formal Living- The formal living is ‘classy’ and enriched with the beauty of plainness. Large French windows with no grills create a sense of openness, and at the same time blinds ensure the required privacy. The living space like all the other spaces is well ventilated too to ensure that ample natural light is coming in. Indirect lighting gives a formal look and blends with the specially designed classy sofas.


The Central Space-The central space that connects the living and dining spaces is the heart of this house. All the living spaces are connected by a compact staircase. The double – two and a half height space here also enhances the feeling of a large house, while bringing in a lot of light and ventilation to the centre.

The central space also justifies the traditional idea of courtyard house, where the sky lit courtyard would form the central light and ventilation source of the house. The connected character of the living spaces as well as the compact open kitchen caters to the new urban living of a working ‘woman of the house’. It reduces the distance between functions and thus increases the efficiency of the living core.

Dining Area -The dining area is a horizontal space with natural light peeping in from the side window as well as the central courtyard. The family living close to dining ensures more interactive spaces for the family members.

Bedrooms-A hard day’s work must be followed by a blissful night of sleep. All bedrooms are cozy and cross ventilated. All the three bedrooms are attached and have a balcony which is opened from a wall cum windows of glass with no rails. The toilets are designed in a way that it has enough light and ventilation with the use of louvers and glazing. This also creates a feeling of ‘bigger’ than they actually are.

 

Terrace-This is the most envious spot in the entire house.  Enhanced with a terrace garden with buffalo lawns and gathering space with seating, it is a perfect spot party cum hang out space. When converting the terrace to an usable space, a membrane roof shading was created, which doubles up as a roof shading for the main building, thus not only giving rain protection to the terrace, but also keeping the roof protected from direct sun rays, effectively reducing the heat intake of the building.

 

“Enjoying spaciousness within the urban compactness and a simplicity that’s been inspired by nature”, the architect sums up his pursuit.

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Architecture

5 Sustainable Interior Design Trends to Embrace in 2024

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As the world becomes increasingly aware of the importance of sustainability, it’s no surprise that eco-friendly practices are making their way into the realm of interior design. In 2024, we can expect to see a surge in sustainable interior design trends that not only enhance the beauty of our living spaces but also minimise our environmental footprint. From repurposed materials to energy-efficient solutions, here are five sustainable interior design trends to embrace this year.

Upcycled Furniture:

One of the most prominent sustainable interior design trends of 2024 is the use of upcycled furniture. Instead of buying new pieces, consider giving old furniture a new lease on life by refurbishing or repurposing them. From reclaimed wood tables to refurbished chairs, upcycled furniture adds character and charm to your space while reducing waste and conserving resources.

Biophilic Design:

Biophilic design, which emphasizes a connection to nature, continues to gain popularity in 2024. Integrating natural elements such as plants, natural light, and organic materials into your interior design not only enhances aesthetics but also promotes well-being and sustainability. Consider incorporating living walls, indoor gardens, and sustainable wood finishes to bring the outdoors inside and create a healthier living environment.

Energy-Efficient Lighting:

With a growing focus on energy conservation, energy-efficient lighting solutions are becoming a staple in sustainable interior design. LED lights, in particular, consume significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer, reducing both energy consumption and maintenance costs. Additionally, consider incorporating natural light sources such as skylights and large windows to maximize daylight and minimize the need for artificial lighting during the day.

Sustainable Textiles:

When it comes to upholstery and soft furnishings, opting for sustainable textiles is key to reducing environmental impact. Look for fabrics made from organic or recycled materials, such as organic cotton, hemp, bamboo, or recycled polyester. These materials not only reduce the use of harmful chemicals and pesticides but also minimize waste and support eco-friendly production practices. Additionally, consider investing in durable, high-quality textiles that stand the test of time, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Smart Home Technology:

In 2024, smart home technology continues to evolve, offering innovative solutions for sustainable living. From smart thermostats that optimize energy usage to home automation systems that control lighting and appliances, these technologies can help reduce energy consumption and increase efficiency in your home. Additionally, smart home devices such as occupancy sensors and smart meters provide valuable insights into your energy usage, empowering you to make informed decisions about resource management and conservation.

As we strive to create more sustainable living environments, embracing these five interior design trends can help reduce our environmental impact while creating beautiful and functional spaces. Whether you’re upcycling old furniture, incorporating natural elements, or investing in energy-efficient technologies, every sustainable choice contributes to a greener future for generations to come. So let’s embrace these trends and make sustainability a cornerstone of our interior design practices in 2024 and beyond.

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Architecture

Designing a Functional Home Office: Tips for Productivity and Comfort

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In today’s ever-evolving work landscape, the home office has become an essential sanctuary for productivity and creativity. Whether you’re a remote worker, freelancer, or entrepreneur, designing a functional home office is paramount for maintaining focus, maximizing efficiency, and enhancing overall well-being. Here are some expert tips to help you create a workspace that promotes productivity and comfort:

Choose the Right Location

 Select a quiet and well-lit area in your home that is conducive to work. Ideally, this space should be away from distractions like heavy foot traffic or noise from common areas.

Invest in Ergonomic Furniture

 Your office chair and desk are vital components of your workspace. Invest in ergonomic furniture that promotes good posture and reduces the risk of discomfort or injury during long hours of work.

Prioritize Natural Light

 Position your desk near a window to take advantage of natural light. Natural light not only enhances mood and energy levels but also reduces eye strain and fatigue.

Declutter Regularly

Keep your workspace clutter-free by organizing cables, files, and supplies. A clean and organized environment fosters clarity of mind and helps minimize distractions.

Personalize Your Space

 Incorporate elements that inspire and motivate you, such as artwork, plants, or motivational quotes. Personalizing your space can boost creativity and make your home office feel more inviting.

Optimize Technology Setup

 Ensure that your technology setup including your computer, monitor, keyboard, and mouse is optimized for efficiency and comfort. Consider investing in accessories like an adjustable monitor stand or a wireless keyboard and mouse for added flexibility.

Incorporate Greenery

 Introduce plants into your home office to improve air quality and add a touch of nature to your space. Plants not only enhance aesthetics but also have been shown to reduce stress and increase productivity.

Create a Distraction-Free Zone

Minimize distractions by setting boundaries with family members or roommates and establishing specific work hours. Consider using noise-canceling headphones or a white noise machine to block out unwanted sounds.

By implementing these tips, you can design a home office that promotes productivity, creativity, and overall well-being. Remember that every individual’s needs and preferences are unique, so feel free to experiment and adjust your workspace to suit your specific requirements. With a well-designed home office, you’ll be better equipped to tackle your tasks with focus, efficiency, and comfort.

 

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A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Colors for Your Home Interior

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Your home is your sanctuary, and choosing the right colors for its interior can significantly impact the atmosphere and ambiance of each room. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy retreat, a vibrant living space, or a serene oasis, selecting the perfect color palette is key. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of choosing the right colors for your home interior to reflect your personal style and create a harmonious living environment.

Consider the Mood You Want to Create:

The first step in choosing the right colors for your home interior is to consider the mood or atmosphere you want to evoke in each room. Do you prefer a calming and serene space, or are you looking for something more vibrant and energizing? Think about how you want to feel when you’re in each room and choose colors that align with those emotions.

Take Lighting into Account:

Lighting plays a crucial role in how colors appear in a room. Natural light can enhance certain hues while making others appear dull. Consider the direction and intensity of natural light in each room when choosing paint colors. Rooms with ample natural light can handle bold and vibrant colors, while those with less light may benefit from softer, lighter shades.

Create a Cohesive Color Scheme:

To ensure a cohesive flow throughout your home, choose a consistent color scheme that ties all the rooms together. You can achieve this by selecting a few key colors and using them in different combinations throughout the house. Neutral colors like whites, grays, and beiges make excellent base tones, while accent colors can add pops of personality and interest.

Explore Color Psychology:

Color psychology can help you understand how different colors can affect mood and behavior. For example, blue is often associated with calmness and tranquility, making it an excellent choice for bedrooms and bathrooms. Yellow, on the other hand, can evoke feelings of happiness and energy, making it ideal for kitchens and living areas. Consider the psychological effects of each color when making your choices.

Test Paint Samples:

Before committing to a color for your walls, it’s essential to test paint samples in the actual space. Paint a small section of the wall with your chosen colors and observe how they look throughout the day in different lighting conditions. This will help you make an informed decision and ensure that you’re happy with the final result.

Don’t Forget About Accents and Accessories:

In addition to wall colors, consider how accent pieces and accessories can complement your chosen color scheme. Throw pillows, rugs, curtains, artwork, and furniture upholstery can all add depth and dimension to your space while tying the room together visually.

Choosing the right colors for your home interior is a personal and creative process that can transform your living space into a place you love to call home. By considering the mood you want to create, taking lighting into account, creating a cohesive color scheme, exploring color psychology, testing paint samples, and incorporating accents and accessories, you can design a home that reflects your unique style and personality. So, let your creativity flow, and enjoy the process of bringing your vision to life!

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