Punkunnam Residence in Thrissur, Kerala, India by LIJO RENY Architects

The compound wall was designed in this fashion so that it compliments the building within, and accommodates two entries to the site, a vehicular gate & a wicket gate. The wicket gate stands under a gateway that which is totally contemporary and a very good example of how traditional elements can be used in a modern context.

On getting in the contemporary house, one would be balled over by the sheer volume of the interior space. This is attained by the 8m height above the skylight court in the living and over the staircase. Space for a planter was found out side the compound wall, between the two entries, by setting in the wall. This setting in of the compound wall and the main gate connected to it facilitates better turning radius for vehicles entering the compound.

The adjacent solid form with its structural walls extracted out, checks an everlasting play of light and shadow. The structural fins that come out redirects breeze into the building at various openings as well as adds a certain aesthetic character of the building. The various masses that rise and fall are a pure reflection of the volume contained within.

The landscape is kept minimal to avoid the clutter that usually turns out to be maintenance constrain. Also the minimal landscape complements the visually complicated form.The waterspout is also custom designed and positioned in a way it gels well with the rest of the design. Entering through either of the gates, one has to tread the various levels to reach the sit out.

Each of the skylights run both vertically and horizontally, the vertical being that of frost glass, for privacy and the horizontal that of reflective glass, to cut out maximum heat, at the same time to give glimpses of the changing sky. The skylights being the highest point in the house have been provided with air vents to facilitate airflow through stack effect. The openness of the living, dining and the family space gives an unobstructed volume for the easy ventilation.

Architects: LIJO RENY architects
Interior & Landscape Design: LIJO RENY architects
Constructed Area: 255,5 sqm
Client: Dr. Cijo Jos and Dr. Thushara Cijo