Set along the calm Chandragiri River in Kasaragod, Kerala, this 8,500-square-foot family home is a blend of traditional Malabar architecture and modern design. Built on a flat site, the land was carefully reshaped to create an artificial incline, raising spaces like the verandah and pool deck to offer picturesque views of the river. The property also includes an 1,100-square-foot outhouse, and the design is divided into two sections—a family home and a guest block with a home office, guest room, and pool room—ensuring privacy and functionality.

The house is designed with thoughtful connections between its living spaces. A verandah runs through the home, linking the dining area, formal and informal drawing rooms, and bedrooms. To suit the family’s lifestyle, the layout places less frequently used spaces, such as the home theatre and parking, on the lower levels, while bedrooms, living rooms, and dining spaces are positioned higher for light and views. Separate entrances for the family, formal guests, and business visitors create distinct pathways, ensuring that professional and personal interactions are kept apart. The pool deck is easily accessible without disturbing the main house, adding to the home’s clever planning.

The interiors showcase a mix of tradition and modernity. Key elements like coloured glass panels, laterite stone arches, and rubble masonry reflect Malabar’s rich architectural heritage, while wrought metal and contemporary finishes give the home a modern edge. Over the years, the family collected unique furniture, artefacts, and lighting fixtures, giving each space a personal touch. The kitchen, for example, was designed with a rustic farmhouse charm but later evolved to look like a renovated traditional space, blending old and new seamlessly. With its combination of careful planning, timeless design, and personal touches, the home is a perfect reflection of the family’s evolving tastes and lifestyle.