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MONSOON IN FARMHOUSE
Project Type | FARM HOUSE |
Project Name : | MONSOON IN FARM HOUSE |
Location : | THRISSUR, KERALA |
Client Name: | V.R SAJEEV & FAMILY |
Principal Architect & Designer: | Ar. Sanjukta Chakraborty, Ar. Arjun K J |
Design Team : | I2a architects studio |
Nestled amidst the verdant landscapes of Kerala, India, this beautifully crafted farmhouse stands as a living testament to the seamless fusion of tradition and contemporary design. Conceived as a tranquil retreat far removed from the frenetic pace of urban life, the home masterfully encapsulates the richness of Kerala’s cultural heritage while embracing modern architectural practices. More than just a residence, it is a poetic dialogue between the built environment and the natural world, a place where the rhythm of nature becomes an intrinsic part of daily life. As one walks through the property, the melodic chirping of birds, the gentle hum of bees, the dappled patterns of sunlight filtering through foliage, and the soft, cool touch of the Earth underfoot all contribute to a sensory experience that is both grounding and uplifting.
Located in the heart of Kerala’s idyllic countryside, the farmhouse is surrounded by a picturesque landscape comprising emerald-green paddy fields, stately coconut groves, and meandering backwaters that reflect the serenity of the skies above. This enchanting setting forms the perfect canvas for a home that aims to offer not just physical comfort, but also emotional and spiritual rejuvenation. The architecture thoughtfully responds to its context, embracing the unique textures, colors, and sounds of the region while ensuring that every built element serves to enhance the natural surroundings rather than dominate them.
The spatial planning of the farmhouse is rooted in the philosophy of openness and fluidity. The open-plan layout, a defining feature of the home, fosters a sense of freedom and encourages interaction among family members and guests. By minimizing interior walls and maximizing sightlines, the design promotes visual continuity and ensures that natural light and air circulate freely throughout the home. Large, strategically placed windows and sliding glass doors create a seamless connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces, further dissolving the boundaries between architecture and nature.
Within this expansive yet intimate layout, the farmhouse accommodates two well-appointed bedrooms, each conceived as a private sanctuary. The bedrooms are designed to be warm and inviting, offering cozy, intimate spaces that allow for deep rest and reflection. Generous windows in each room not only allow for an abundance of natural light but also frame captivating views of the surrounding landscape—whether it's the gentle sway of coconut palms, the shimmering surface of a nearby pond, or the soft hues of the evening sky. These quiet moments of connection to nature are what elevate the farmhouse experience from mere living to mindful dwelling.
The interior design features a contemporary palette characterized by sleek, functional furniture, minimalist décor, and subtle earthy tones that echo the hues of the natural surroundings. The use of polished concrete floors, wood accents, and locally sourced materials adds both texture and warmth to the space. The result is a home that feels both rooted and refined—luxurious without being ostentatious, modern without being sterile.
One of the most distinctive features of the farmhouse is the expansive outdoor deck that extends organically from the main living area. This large wooden deck acts as a space between the interior and the landscape, offering panoramic views of the lush countryside. Designed as a multifunctional zone, the deck is ideal for casual lounging, outdoor dining, or simply soaking in the tranquility of the environment. Whether it's morning yoga sessions, evening tea rituals, or late-night conversations under the stars, this space becomes the heart of the home’s outdoor life.
The landscaping of the property has been meticulously curated to create a holistic ecosystem that is both visually stunning and environmentally responsible. A large pond, bordered with locally sourced laterite stone, serves as a central focal point in the garden. Not only does the pond enhance the aesthetic appeal of the property, but it also plays a vital functional role in maintaining a cool microclimate around the house. The presence of water moderates temperature, creating a pleasant atmosphere even during the hot summer months. Smaller water features are also interspersed throughout the landscape, their gentle ripples and reflections adding movement and tranquility to the space.
These aquatic features are complemented by a thoughtfully selected palette of indigenous tropical trees and plants, including bamboo, Elanji (Mimusops elengi), mango, and a variety of flowering shrubs. These plants are not merely ornamental; they also serve to support local biodiversity by attracting birds, bees, butterflies, and other wildlife. In doing so, the landscape becomes a living, breathing entity—a vibrant, self-sustaining ecosystem that brings vitality and richness to the farmhouse. The careful placement of trees and shrubs provides natural shading, reduces heat gain, and promotes energy efficiency by minimizing the need for artificial cooling systems.
Beyond its physical beauty, the farmhouse reflects a deeper philosophy of sustainable and harmonious living. Every aspect of its design—from the use of locally available materials to the reliance on passive cooling techniques—has been guided by a commitment to ecological responsibility. Solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems further underscore the home's green credentials, ensuring that it treads lightly on the land it so lovingly inhabits.
What began as a modest weekend getaway has, over time, evolved into a full-time residence—a true home for the client’s family. With this transformation has come a new way of living, one that embraces the rhythms of nature and the pleasures of simplicity. Life here is punctuated not by the ticking of clocks, but by the rustling of leaves, the chatter of birds. It is a place where people and nature coexist in peaceful harmony, each enriching the other’s experience.
In its thoughtful integration of architecture, landscape, and lifestyle, this farmhouse crafted by i2a Architects Studio stands as a luminous example of what it means to live well and live responsibly. It offers not just shelter, but sanctuary—a space where one can breathe deeply, think clearly, and feel profoundly connected to the world around them. More than just a dwelling, it is a heartfelt retreat that celebrates the true essence of home, grounded in tradition yet reaching forward with elegance and grace.
