House of Noufal: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

The residence, crafted for Noufal Charan and his family of four, including his wife and three children, is a reflection of Noufal’s extensive travels and open-mindedness. He envisioned a home that was not only unique and eccentric but also full of surprises, mirroring his adventurous spirit and curiosity.

To achieve this, the architectural plan aimed to merge contemporary design elements with the distinctive features of traditional Kerala architecture, creating a climatically responsive tropical dwelling. One of the most striking features of the house is its sloping roof, which almost touches the ground, giving the structure a distinctive form and posture. This design choice is not merely aesthetic; the sloping roof provides essential protection from the region’s heavy rains and intense sunlight. Beneath this expansive roof, the outer walls are punctuated by long openings, ensuring ample cross-ventilation and natural light within the house.

The internal layout of the House of Noufal is thoughtfully planned on three different levels, following the slope of the roof. This arrangement allows for visual continuity throughout the space. The inclusion of double-height areas and a large central courtyard facilitates passive cooling, an essential feature in Kerala’s humid climate. The courtyard not only serves as a natural climate control mechanism but also neatly divides the living space into public and private areas. On one side of the courtyard lie the living and dining areas, while the bedrooms and kitchen are located on the other side.

The courtyard itself is a marvel of design, featuring huge natural boulders with floating stairs above them, and surrounded by lush green plants, turning it into the focal point of the house. The seating arrangements around the courtyard make it an ideal spot for family gatherings, infusing the space with warmth and sociability.

In terms of building materials, the house incorporates indigenous tiles for roofing, providing both aesthetic appeal and functional durability. The structure is supported by steel frames, ensuring strength and stability. Wooden louvered doors, reminiscent of traditional Kerala style, adorn the facade, while the interior flooring is crafted from concrete with intricate inlay work. To further enhance the traditional aesthetic, old furniture pieces were sourced and refurbished with traditional detailing, adding a touch of heritage and history to the modern setting.

The interior of the House of Noufal in Kannur, Kerala, is a captivating amalgamation of traditional Kerala elements and modern architectural design, reflecting the client’s adventurous spirit and love for travel. As one steps inside, the unique personality of the house unfolds, revealing a space that is both innovative and steeped in cultural heritage.

The living and dining areas, situated adjacent to the courtyard, are designed to be open and inviting. These spaces are characterized by high ceilings and large windows that allow natural light to flood in, creating a bright and welcoming environment. The use of traditional Kerala wooden louvered doors in the facade adds a touch of local architecture, while the concrete flooring with inlay works brings a contemporary and artistic feel to the space. The combination of modern furniture with traditional detailing in the old furniture pieces sourced for the home adds layers of texture and history, creating a space that is both comfortable and visually intriguing.

In essence, the House of Noufal is a striking blend of the old and the new, a space where traditional Kerala architecture meets contemporary design. It stands as a vivid representation of the client’s personality – open, curious, and appreciative of both the modern and the traditional. This house is not just a dwelling but a celebration of cultural heritage, climatic responsiveness, and architectural innovation, making it a unique and cherished home for Noufal and his family.