THE AMBER ABODE

The project began with a 35-year-old single-storey house in Kerala that had remained vacant for several years. Over time, the house had deteriorated, while the landscape around it had grown dense, with large trees gradually enveloping the existing structure. The brief was to transform the ageing house into a contemporary home while retaining its original character and its unique relationship with the surrounding landscape. The existing structure was completely renovated and a new upper floor was introduced, accommodating two additional bedrooms, a family room and an outdoor terrace designed for gatherings and parties.

Rather than clearing the site and starting afresh, the design approach was to work with what already existed. The mature trees became an integral part of the architectural character, creating a home that feels embedded within the landscape rather than imposed upon it. The existing house was given a contemporary expression while retaining the sense of familiarity and permanence associated with the original structure.

The tropical climate of Kerala played an important role in shaping the architecture. A generous roof overhang was introduced to protect the front balcony and entrance steps from the heavy monsoon rains. This extended roof plane also visually connects with the cantilevered roof over the car parking, creating a continuous architectural gesture across the front of the house.

The material palette reinforces the connection with the landscape. Yellow teak sandstone cladding brings warmth and texture to the exterior, while the wooden ceiling adds another layer of natural materiality. Against the dense greenery surrounding the house, these earthy materials allow the architecture to sit quietly within its setting while giving the renovated home a distinctly contemporary identity.

Inside, the transformation continues through a restrained and minimalist approach. Subtle earthy tones create a calm, warm backdrop, allowing the textures of the materials and the surrounding landscape to take precedence. A new skylight brings natural light deep into the house while improving the sense of openness and connection with the outdoors.