The architecture of the homes in Kerala is unique because of the hot and humid climate. To keep the heat out, homes here are constructed in a specific manner. On the other hand, it is also to try to keep things as cool as possible indoors while sheltering from the severe rains. Despite the fact that this type of architecture emerged from temples, it has a wide range of inspirations. It has elements from Syria, Portugal, and other parts of the world. As a result, the Kerala style of decoration is as diverse and unique as the state’s diverse culture. Following are some of the quintessential Kerala elements that interior designers at VC Interiors have incorporated into their projects.

Wood Paneling

The architectural impact of wooden accents is quite prevalent in Kerala because of the abundance of timber in this area. As a result, in Kerala, we frequently find roofs with timber rafters and solid wood doors and windows. The placement of big windows that bring in lots of light is another distinguishing aspect of this style of architecture. All of these aspects have been used in our entryways in our typical Malayali abode. Furthermore, traditional decor objects like the wall-mounted veena, carved console, and wooden framed mirror are used to balance the look.

Smaller décor pieces, such as the veena or plants in earthen pots, are simple to choose from. The wooden panelling on the doors and windows, though, is the true show-stopper here. It contrasts sharply with the glass floor-to-ceiling windows that are common in modern apartment living rooms.

Red Oxide Flooring

Wooden sofas, large chairs and recliners, as well as a traditional South Indian swing, define a sitting area in a Kerala-style home living room. The ornateness of the furnishings in such traditional living rooms is lovely, but the red oxide carpet stands out. This style of flooring was first adopted from the interior design style in Portuguese in the 1700s. Massive pillars, which were once needed to support houses, are now largely used as decorative elements. In comparison to tiles, red oxide provides a cost-effective and unique flooring solution. This flooring not only has cultural significance, but it also has a rich colour that may easily become a focal point in your home.

Storage in Niches in the Wall

A designated dining area is always present in a traditional Kerala-style home. This has become a prerequisite to being a Malayali. We try to give an earthy visual experience to the dining room with wooden ceiling elements and rustic colour combinations. We see the classic arched windows. When it is hot and humid outdoors, these huge windows are responsible for keeping things cool inside. Crockery is kept in niches carved into the walls in most homes in this region. Glass shutters adorn these cast-in crockery cabinets. They are also extremely compact and functional, making them ideal for apartment living.

Dark Wood Polish

In a Kerala-style home, bedrooms are usually small and simple. Aside from enough storage, which is usually provided by wooden wardrobes, the bedroom must also be kept cool. As a result, bay windows are a great method to keep the air flowing. As a result, even on the warmest days, you will sleep in a cool environment. It is a well-known truth that the South’s decor features a lot of wood furniture and accents. The overwhelming use of dark wood polish in a Kerala-style home, however, stands out. The polish on a solid wood bed or carved coffee table will always be a dark shade of mahogany. This gives any home’s decor more depth and richness. This is especially true when coupled with earthy-toned furniture.

Gable Windows

The fact that Kerala is a community of intellectuals cannot be denied. A cup of tea and the newspaper are the first things they do every morning. Almost every house has a reading nook, either on the porch or in the attic. A rocking chair and coffee table would be excellent for a reading nook. It is also easy to envision a book rack or bookcases in this space. This scene of pure seclusion is completed with plants in earthen containers.

A reading nook, without a doubt, requires a lot of light. And that leads us to gable windows, which are a very distinctive element of Kerala-style building. These are windows that are either built into the roof or protrude from the house. Small and exquisitely carved coffee tables with low heights can complete the look

Following are some other elements our interior designers commonly use in a home in Kerala:

• Chairs and recliners as simple courtyard furniture items.

• Swings with simple suspension rods and seating made of wood.

• A courtyard or garden area with a large number of indoor plants.

• Small ornamental storage items matching the earthy vibe.

• Traditional designs for incense holders and flower vases.

• Wall hangings depicting temple motifs.

We at VC Interiors believe that modernity can be found in Kerala homes. We make sure that your traditions are represented and valued in your home. We implement traditional home interior design projects within space and budgetary limitations with careful planning.

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