880 ft² of Heritage & Innovation - Paliam Veedu, Kerala

Описание: Nestled in the tranquil village of Chendamangalam, Kerala, Paliam Veedu is a masterpiece by Meister Varma Architects that seamlessly blends heritage with contemporary design. Encompassing an area of just 880 ft², this vacation home reimagines traditional Kerala architecture to meet modern needs while honoring the legacy of the Paliam family, once hereditary prime ministers to the Kingdom of Cochin.

The home, built on a 160 sqm parcel, reflects its dual purpose: a serene retreat for the client and a welcoming space for classical artists during the annual family festival. The design adopts an open-plan layout, prioritizing communal living spaces while minimizing bedrooms. A unique circulation passage offers uninterrupted access to the nearby heritage complex, preserving its historical connection.

Inspired by traditional Kerala architecture, Paliam Veedu incorporates gables to refine building edges and introduces a polished cement rainwater channel to control and store rainwater. This element is mirrored throughout the structure, allowing for long, lintel-free windows in all rooms. Salvaged jackfruit wood grills enhance shading and security, while glass roof tiles create dynamic light patterns on the interiors, adding a poetic interplay of light and shadow.

Crafted with precision by a talented design team—Krishnan Varma and Saumya Joseph—and supported by collaborators Roji Antony, Shaijan PV, and Shaji Francis, Paliam Veedu is an ode to Kerala’s rich architectural tradition. Photographed by Syam Sreesylam and Govind Nair, the house celebrates timeless craftsmanship, sustainable materials, and the seamless fusion of old and new.

This stunning home exemplifies the harmony between heritage, innovation, and sustainability, making it a unique architectural gem in India.

Paliam Veedu / Meister Varma Architects

Architects: Meister Varma Architects
Area: 880 ft²
Year: 2020
Photographs: Syam Sreesylam, Govind Nair
Manufacturers: AutoDesk, Saint-Gobain, Adobe, Hafele
Design Team: Krishnan Varma, Saumya Joseph
Collaborators: Roji Antony, Shaijan PV, Shaji Francis
City: Chendamangalam
Country: India