Double Story House Plans In Kerala

Double Story House Plans In Kerala: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction:

Kerala, known for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has a unique architectural style that reflects its tropical climate and traditional values. Double-story houses, or Nalukettu Veedu, are a prominent feature of Kerala's residential architecture, offering spacious living spaces and a strong connection to nature. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of double-story house plans in Kerala, exploring their key elements, benefits, and popular design variations.

1. Architectural Design:

Double-story houses in Kerala typically showcase a traditional Kerala architectural style, featuring sloping roofs, wide verandahs, and intricate wood carvings. The ground floor usually consists of a spacious living area, kitchen, bedrooms, and a courtyard, while the upper floor often houses additional bedrooms, a study room, and a prayer room. This thoughtful design allows for efficient space utilization and caters to the needs of extended families and traditional lifestyles.

2. Key Elements:

Sloping Roofs:

Double-story house plans in Kerala often feature sloping roofs with Mangalore tiles, adding charm and protection from the tropical climate. *

Wide Verandahs:

Expansive verandahs, known as sit-outs, are a signature feature, providing outdoor living spaces and enhancing indoor-outdoor connectivity. *

Intricate Wood Carvings:

Traditional Kerala architecture incorporates intricate wood carvings on doors, pillars, and beams, adding an artistic touch to the home. *

Courtyard:

A central courtyard, known as Nadumuttam, is often incorporated into the design, bringing natural light and ventilation into the home's heart. *

Elevated Plinth:

Double-story houses are often built on elevated platforms, providing protection from floods and moisture, commonly seen in Kerala's humid climate.

3. Variations in Design:

Double-story house plans in Kerala exhibit variations in design, reflecting regional influences and personal preferences. *

Traditional Nalukettu Veedu:

The classic double-story house in Kerala, the Nalukettu Veedu, features a square courtyard surrounded by living spaces, allowing for privacy and natural ventilation. *

Contemporary Twist:

Some modern double-story houses blend traditional elements with contemporary design, featuring open floor plans, glass facades, and minimalist interiors. *

Gabled Roofs:

In coastal areas of Kerala, double-story houses often showcase gabled roofs, inspired by Portuguese colonial architecture. *

Regional Influences:

Variations in design can be observed across different regions of Kerala, influenced by cultural and climatic factors.

4. Benefits of Double-Story House Plans:

Spacious Living Spaces:

Two stories allow for ample living spaces, accommodating extended families, guest rooms, and diverse activities. *

Improved Ventilation and Natural Lighting:

Elevated structures and extensive windows facilitate better ventilation and natural lighting throughout the home. *

Privacy and Separation:

The division between floors offers privacy for bedrooms and personal spaces, while maintaining connectivity with common areas. *

Flexibility in Design:

Double-story plans provide flexibility in design, allowing for customized layouts and functional spaces.

5. Factors to Consider:

When designing or selecting double-story house plans in Kerala, several factors merit consideration: *

Climate and Orientation:

The design should respond to the tropical climate, ensuring proper ventilation and shade. Orientation should maximize natural light and minimize solar heat gain. *

Lifestyle and Family Needs:

Consider the family's lifestyle, space requirements, and privacy needs when selecting a floor plan. *

Budget and Construction Costs:

Housing construction costs vary in Kerala, so it's essential to set a realistic budget and select a plan that aligns with it. *

Sustainability and Energy Efficiency:

Incorporate sustainable features like energy-efficient lighting, solar panels, and rainwater harvesting to reduce carbon footprint and utility bills.

Conclusion:

Double-story house plans in Kerala offer a unique blend of traditional charm and modern functionality. Whether you prefer the classic Nalukettu Veedu or a contemporary interpretation, these homes provide spacious living areas, privacy, and a strong connection to the natural surroundings. With careful consideration of climate, lifestyle, and budget, double-story house plans in Kerala cater to the diverse needs of families seeking a comfortable and culturally rooted living environment.