Janani Residence

Thrissur, Kerala
Naked Volume
Thrissur, Kerala

Published on 16 September, 2024

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Janani Residence Video

This publication is a culmination of a detailed film which
has been produced and published on Buildofy in 2024.
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Contents
Project Details......................................................................................................................... 9
Key Contributors..................................................................................................................... 9
Design Concept..................................................................................................................... 10
Site Context*......................................................................................................................... 14
The Entrance.......................................................................................................................... 16
Ground Floor*........................................................................................................................ 18
Living Room........................................................................................................................... 22
Dining Room .........................................................................................................................28
First Floor*..............................................................................................................................37
Section*..................................................................................................................................40
Bedroom.................................................................................................................................44
Conclusion..............................................................................................................................48
Material Palette....................................................................................................................50
Product Specifications........................................................................................................ 52
Documentation Credits...................................................................................................... 53

* Drawings for reference on this page.

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 Foreword
Nestled in the tranquil outskirts
of Thrissur, Janani stands as a
testament to the seamless integration
of Kerala’s rich architectural heritage
with contemporary living. The name
‘Janani’,derived from Malayalam,
translates to ‘mother,’ symbolizing
birth and a fresh start for the client
and their family.
The home invites oneself to explore
it’s thoughtful design, from its
sloping terracotta roof and traditional
Padipurra entrance to its spacious,
light-filled interiors. Janani’s design
prioritizes the users mental and
physical comfort through natural
light and ventilation through well-
placed windows, creating a clutter-
free, harmonious environment.
This home is not merely a residence
but a thoughtfully crafted
embodiment of the essence of
tradition and innovation.

Chithresh Pillay Mani

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Project Details
Location Nadathara, Thrissur,
Kerala
Firm Naked Volume Architecture Studio

Project Team Arjun A. Joshy

Hail Rose

Plot Area 3186 sq.ft.

Built-Up Area 2200 sq.ft.

Project Start Date 2023

Project End Date 2024

Number of Floors G+1

Number of Car Parks 1

Number of Bedrooms 3

Vastu Compliant Yes

Key Contributors
Structure, Civil, Facade, Landscape, Poornima Home Decors
MEP, HVAC, Acoustics

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Design Concept
In this residence, a thoughtful approach merges tropical aesthetics with minimalism, ensuring that
the design is not only visually appealing but also functional, especially for the comfort of a differently-
abled child. The focus on mental comfort and ease of movement is evident in the careful selection
of materials and spatial planning. By using natural light as a pivotal design element, strategically
placed windows brighten up the space without overwhelming it.

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Site Context
Located 13 kilometers from the city center in the southeastern part of Thrissur district, the site
offers a harmonious blend of rural serenity and urban connectivity. This peaceful settlement, away
from the hustle of the core city, is reached through narrow, verdant lanes that wind through lush
greenery, invoking a sense of retreat. Despite its secluded setting, the area remains well-linked to
Thrissur, allowing for both tranquility and accessibility. The location is ideal for those seeking a rural
atmosphere while staying connected to urban conveniences.

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The Entrance
Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by a striking Padippura, an antique gateway that stands as The journey begins with a formal sit-out, where expansive seating areas invite conversation and
a symbolic threshold, transitioning one from the outside world into the private sanctuary of the reflection. The open design encourages interaction between guests and the natural surroundings,
residence. This traditional structure sets the tone, offering a glimpse of the careful blend between blurring the boundaries between indoors and out. The ambiance feels both grand and intimate,
heritage and modernity that defines the home’s design. creating a seamless connection to the environment.

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As you move beyond this formal entry,

an unofficial seating area subtly unfolds,
effortlessly extending from the sit-out. This
relaxed space, though less structured, is no
less engaging. It offers a continuation of
the home’s welcoming spirit, encouraging
casual gatherings and quiet moments
of solitude amidst the play of light
and shadow, which define the home’s
architectural language. The transition from
public to private space feels natural, rooted
in the charm of tradition while embracing
the fluidity of contemporary living.

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Living Room
Stepping into the living room, one is immediately struck by the grandeur of the double-height space, The room’s focus on mental comfort and ease of movement is evident in every detail, from the
where the interplay of height and light creates a sense of openness and calm. Windows positioned at selection of tactile materials to the purposeful spatial layout. An inbuilt L-shaped sofa wraps around
two different levels, in harmony with the room’s vertical expanse, allow for excellent air circulation the living area, its design both grounding and embracing the space. This integrated furniture choice
through the natural phenomenon known as the stack effect. This thoughtful design enhances the not only ensures a clutter-free environment but also encourages a sense of togetherness and
thermal comfort of the room, promoting a gentle, natural airflow that cools the space without the relaxation.
need for mechanical intervention.

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Living Room
The wall opposite the seating is punctuated with expansive windows that run almost the full length The design of the residence seamlessly merges the living, dining, and kitchen areas into one fluid,
of the living room. These windows offer uninterrupted views of the lush greenery outside, allowing open-plan space. This cohesive environment not only promotes interaction but also ensures a
nature to become a central feature of the interior. The natural light streaming through these windows sense of continuity throughout the home. From here, you are gently guided beneath the shade of
not only illuminates the space but also fosters a serene connection between the indoors and the the bridge that connects the upper level, a design feature that adds both depth and intrigue to the
verdant landscape beyond, reinforcing the home’s blend of minimalism, comfort, and tropical spatial experience.
charm.

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The interiors are a study in calm, where hardwood

finishes and oxide décor in earthy tones create
an atmosphere of quiet relaxation—perfect for
unwinding after a demanding day. The texture
and warmth of these materials evoke a sense of
grounded comfort, and the ambiance subtly invites
the inner child in you to relax and reconnect with
simpler joys.
Notably, the tactile experience of the home is
dominated by the natural finishes of wood, cement,
and green oxide. These elements come together to
create a rich sensory palette, reinforcing the home’s
connection to nature. The walls, uniformly smooth
and white from their plastered finish, offer a clean,
minimalist backdrop that allows the more textured
surfaces to stand out.

Dining Room
The design of the residence seamlessly merges the living, dining, and kitchen areas into one fluid,
open-plan space. This cohesive environment not only promotes interaction but also ensures a
sense of continuity throughout the home. From here, you are gently guided beneath the shade of
the bridge that connects the upper level, a design feature that adds both depth and intrigue to the
spatial experience.

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The green oxide flooring, in particular, becomes

a living canvas, evolving over time. Its surface
develops organic patterns as it weathers, giving
the home a unique, lived-in charm that deepens
its character with every step. This deliberate use
of materials—designed to change and mature
with age—imbues the residence with a timeless
quality, where every scratch and mark tells a
story, grounding the home in its environment and
the passage of time.

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The decision to paint the walls in a simple white

hue enhances the sense of serenity, making the
interiors feel expansive and uncluttered. The
minimal use of bright yellow accents on built-
in furniture and wall details effectively breaks
up the otherwise monochromatic backdrop,
creating visual interest without disrupting the
tranquil atmosphere.

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First Floor
Ascending to the first floor, you encounter a light and airy bridge that elegantly connects the reading
room, an additional bedroom, and the terrace. This architectural feature feels almost poetic—much
like a delicate yet resilient bond, it holds together the cherished memories and aspirations of the
home’s inhabitants. The bridge, though visually lightweight, serves as a powerful link between
spaces, fostering a sense of continuity without compartmentalizing the home’s functions.

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First Floor
The reading room is a sanctuary of calm, offering sweeping views of both the world outside and the In the early hours, the room is flooded with the morning sun, casting a soft, golden glow that imbues
life unfolding below. This thoughtful design avoids isolating the user, instead encouraging a quiet the space with a sense of warmth and magic. This interplay of light, air, and openness makes the
reflection while still being connected to the pulse of the household. The room is bathed in natural reading room a place of both introspection and inspiration—an ideal spot to unwind, daydream, or
light, thanks to the expansive louvered windows that not only frame the views but also enhance the lose oneself in a book, all while remaining connected to the rhythm of the surrounding environment.
stack effect, promoting ventilation and a pleasant breeze.

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Moving to Section B, the focus shifts to connectivity and flow between spaces. The staircase and
the bridge play a pivotal role here, not merely as a functional element but as a visual connection
between the floors, enhancing the structural dynamism of the home. This section highlights the
seamless transition from indoor to outdoor spaces, emphasized by the light bridge that connects
the reading room and terrace, fostering an engagement with the exterior environment.

Both sections highlight the use of robust materials such as wood and cement, juxtaposed with
delicate touches of green oxide, adding layers of texture and color that resonate with the structure’s
natural surroundings. The smooth white plastered walls serve as a canvas, reflecting light and
enhancing the overall luminosity of the interior spaces.
Overall, these architectural sections communicate a design philosophy that prioritizes spatial
harmony, natural light, and fluid movement, all while maintaining a connection to the outdoor
environment, making the residence not just a house, but a responsive and integral part of its setting.

The architectural drawings presented, depicting Sections A and B of the residential structure, offer
a rich narrative of design that marries functionality with aesthetic appeal. These sections illustrate a
home that embraces the principles of open plan living while ensuring the privacy and functionality
of its distinct areas.
Section A reveals the multi-level design, featuring a striking double-height space that enhances the
home’s sense of openness and light. The presence of multiple figures within the section underscores
the home’s capacity to facilitate both lively social interaction and individual activities, showcasing
its versatile living environment. The strategic placement of large windows along the side of the
building not only maximizes natural light but also promotes natural ventilation, demonstrating a
thoughtful integration of the stack effect to maintain comfort without relying heavily on artificial
climate control.

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Bedroom
This masterfully designed bedroom epitomizes the architectural philosophy of merging minimalism Rich, wooden elements in the form of window frames, shutters, and furniture introduce warmth and
with tropical influences, which has been a consistent theme throughout the residence. Here, the texture, balancing the coolness of the green floor. These wood features are not merely functional;
serene backdrop of pure white walls contrasts beautifully with the vibrant green oxide flooring, they are integral to the room’s design narrative, emphasizing the connection to nature—a key
a design choice previously highlighted for its organic appeal and ability to evolve with time. The element in this home’s architectural ethos. The windows themselves are strategically placed to
green flooring here is not just a color choice but a nod to sustainability and naturalism, echoing the foster an abundance of natural light, enhancing the room’s airy feel and further facilitating the stack
outdoors within the intimate space of the bedroom. effect ventilation strategy mentioned earlier, ensuring a comfortable interior climate..

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Bedroom
The furniture, including an inbuilt L-shaped seating by the window, extends an invitation to relax
and engage with the exterior views, integrating the environment into the daily experience of the
space. This setup encourages contemplation and connection, allowing the inhabitants to feel a part
of the landscape even from within.

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Conclusion
The residence meticulously weaves together themes of minimalism, tropical influences, and Moreover, the incorporation of elements such as the light bridge, the stack effect for natural cooling,
thoughtful spatial design, all while embracing the functional needs of its inhabitants. Throughout and the integration of green oxide flooring reflects a sophisticated understanding of both vernacular
the home, the interplay of natural light, strategic ventilation, and the use of local materials like architecture and contemporary design demands. Each space within the home is crafted not just
wood, cement, and green oxide showcases a deep respect for the environment both aesthetically for aesthetic appeal but for psychological comfort and practical usability, making the residence a
and ecologically. This architectural approach not only fosters a serene living atmosphere but also profound statement in holistic architectural design. The design’s success lies in its ability to create
promotes a sustainable lifestyle, proving that thoughtful design can seamlessly integrate modern a cohesive environment that respects its cultural roots while providing a tranquil and inviting
comforts with traditional sensibilities. atmosphere for all who dwell within.

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Material Palette

Green Oxide Black Cobblestone

Teak Wood Louvres Mangalore Tile

Kadappa Stone Bangalore Stone

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Unique Material Applications

Kitchen Hardware Hettich, Varna

Kitchen Surfaces Simpolo, City Ceramics

Facade Teak Wood Louvres Kitchen Chimney Kaff, Varna

Flooring Oxide Flooring, Black Cobblestone & Bangalore Sone

Ply Trojan Ply, Varna
Staircase Rose Wood, Mild Steel
Laminates Greenlam, Varna

Roofing Mangalore Tiles

Designer Fans Atomberg

Car Porch Flooring Kadappa Stone

Switches Legrand, Happy Electronics

Furniture(In-Built) Teak Wood Panels

Documentation Credits
Product Specifications Photography Abhimanyu K V

Roofing Steel Land

Cement Ultratech Architectural Journalist Chithresh Pillay Mani

Brick Local Cement Brick Drawings and Graphics Naked Volume Architetcure Studio

eBook Design and Editing Rudra Sreeram

Windows and Doors Wooden

Glass Saint-Gobain, Varna

Hardware Ebco, Hettich, Varna

Flooring Teakwood

Paint Asian Paints,Fashion Paints

Sanitaryware and Bath Fittings Cera, City Ceramics

Bath Flooring Simpolo, City Ceramics

Sofas, Chairs, Dining Table & Inbuilt/Carpentary

Wardrobes

Blinds, Carpets & Rugs Chakolas

Kitchen Sink Kaff, Varna

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