For most south Indians, the idea of spending summers at their ancestral homes brings back a memory of childhood. Architecture’s design philosophy is to create meaningful interfaces between humans and their surroundings. This creative process comes from continued research and learning of latest architectural benchmarks, pollinated by developments in the socio economic landscape.
Where the main goal is to enhance the human experience for ultimate client satisfaction… so every house or office is designed to enhance the positive energies, in terms of form, function, climate control, vastu, and more. Many of you may be fascinated by the depictions of south Indian homes and would like to replicate the same, without having a clear idea about where to start. The land in between is often termed as semi – arid and hence the architecture of its traditional homes also vary in many nuances across the board. However, the basic structure does not alter much, though Tamil Nadu homes can be distinguished or classified further into sub parts.
Chettinad homes – The Chettinad region within Tamil Nadu merits special mention here for its type of architecture. Chettinad, home to the prosperous business community, has carved out a distinct cultural identity which reflects in its architecture, cuisine and temples. Chettinad homes characterized by their use of teak and marble, often flaunt beautiful pillars on the verandah as well as two towers on either side of the front verandah that contain rooms used exclusively to conduct business.
The intricately carved front door leads to the thinnai/verandah called Muggapu where photos of the older generation of the family lie. The courtyard inside is also surrounded by pillars and leads to the various different rooms. Another courtyard at the rear of the house acts the meeting place for the women of the house who cook and socialize in its wake.
Aesthetic elements like pillars, Wooden swing and furnitures, Athangudi tiles for flooring, Spacious verandah, Tamil Nadu artworks, Natural materials for construction, Earthy colours and so on, all of which can also be in cooperated into modern construction and interior design to add a touch of traditional fell to the house.
Architect Mathivathani
