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Architecture

2023

Ekam retreat is a renovation project amidst the scenic terrains of Amboori, Trivandrum, Kerala. A project aimed at breathing new life to a home abandoned. The walls of the house had significant damage and were left to the forces of nature. The home had undergone changes with due course of time. Located amidst the mountains of amboori, site offered breathtaking views towards the lush greenscapes and river flowing nearby. The forest like ambience elevates the whole look and feel of the site.

The design intent was to restore the home with contemporary living requirements with a traditional twist. Main aim was to bring about openness to the dark interiors and to extend an additional bedroom space without much structural change. The original house with metal sheet roofing was transformed with minimal changes to bring about a significant change in an aesthetic way. Traditional verandah with pillars that support the extended sloping roof was introduced in a minimalistic way. An open planning approach was taken where living, dining and kitchen areas were combined to form a simple open light filled area with ample natural light and ventilation which was a breath of fresh change to the once dark and moody home. Existing walls that segregated the spaces were demolished to form a single and open space.

Neutral earthy palette was followed throughout the home with minimal treatment to the interiors and large openings were introduced to all rooms that brought in the essence of lush greenery around into the interiors. Most of the furniture used was refurbished and reused in this home. Landscaping was done in multiple layers as seen from road level where fourth level being the terracotta roofing of the home blends seamlessly into the context. Ekam is an attempt at reimagining the concept of restoring life to a once abandoned home. A home away from home.