Best architects in Kerala  | Suvarnarekha Design Consultants
                     How to Design a House for Different Seasons 
and Climates in Kerala: Features and 
Considerations
SUVARNAREKHA DESIGN CONSULTANTS, 
KOTTAYAM
ABOUT US : 
Suvarnarekha Design Consultants is a renowned architecture firm based 
in Kerala, known for delivering exceptional designs and transforming 
visions into reality. With a team of highly skilled and experienced 
architects, we are committed to bringing the best architectural solutions 
to our clients. Our expertise ranges from residential and commercial 
projects to institutional and hospitality designs. As one of the 
best architects in Kerala, we combine innovation, functionality, and 
aesthetics to create spaces that are not only visually captivating but also 
functional and sustainable. Trust us to bring your dreams to life with our 
impeccable designs and comprehensive architectural services.
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INTRODUCTION :
   
Challenges and opportunities of designing a house in Kerala
 Kerala has a unique climate and geography that poses challenges and 
opportunities for house design.
 Kerala has a rich tradition of architectural styles and principles that 
can be incorporated into modern house design.
 Kerala has a variety of locally-sourced and eco-friendly building 
materials that can be used to reduce costs and environmental impact.
 Kerala has a small and competitive market for house design, which 
requires innovation and experimentation to stand out and meet the 
needs and preferences of the clients.
 Kerala has a growing demand and awareness for energy-efficient 
and green house design, which creates opportunities for 
incorporating renewable energy sources and smart technologies.
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KERALA HOUSE DESIGN: KEY ELEMENTS AND PRINCIPLES
Traditional architectural styles of Kerala and their relation to Vaastu Shastra and Thach Shastra
• Four halls or wings around a central courtyard in Kerala home designs Nalukettu, Ettukettu, and Pathinarukkettu.
• Pathinarukkettu means "sixteen blocks" and has four courtyards, Nalukettu means "four blocks" and has one, 
Ettukettu means "eight blocks" and has two.
• Vastu Shastra, an ancient architectural theory that specifies the optimal arrangement, direction, and size of 
structures in relation to cosmic energy and natural components, is the foundation for these architectural forms.
• These designs are also grounded on the ideas of Thachu Shastra, the age-old discipline of carpentry that outlines 
the supplies, methods, and procedures needed to build wooden buildings without the use of nails or interlocking 
joints.
• These designs highlight the workmanship, aesthetics, and social values of the area while also reflecting the 
culture, climate, and topography of Kerala. They also offer plenty of natural light, ventilation, and rainwater 
collection.
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SLOPE ROOF: A UNIQUE FEATURE OF KERALA HOUSE 
DESIGN
How slope roofs are suitable for kerala’s climate and how they are 
constructed :
 Slope roofs, also called Nadumuttam roofs, are a distinctive feature of Kerala house design that have a steep 
angle and a central opening.
 Slope roofs are suitable for Kerala’s heavy rainfall and tropical climate because they allow the rainwater to 
drain quickly and efficiently, preventing leaks and dampness.
 Slope roofs also create a natural ventilation system that cools the indoor spaces and reduces the heat and 
humidity. The central opening, called Nadumuttam, acts as a skylight that brings in natural light and fresh air.
 Slope roofs are constructed using locally available and eco-friendly materials, such as clay tiles and palm 
leaves. Clay tiles are durable, waterproof, and fire-resistant, while palm leaves are lightweight, flexible, and 
renewable.
 Slope roofs are built using traditional techniques and craftsmanship, such as interlocking joints and wooden 
pegs, without using nails or metal. The roof structure is supported by wooden beams and columns that are 
carved and decorated with intricate patterns.
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WOODEN ELEMENTS: ADDING WARMTH AND ELEGANCE 
TO KERALA HOUSE DESIGN
 Wood is a versatile material that can be used for various purposes in Kerala house design, such as structural support, 
decorative elements, furniture, and flooring. Wood can also be carved, painted, or polished to create different effects 
and styles.
 Wood is a durable material that can withstand the climatic conditions of Kerala, such as heavy rainfall, high humidity, 
and termites. Wood also has natural insulation properties that help to keep the indoor temperature comfortable and 
reduce energy consumption.
 The most common types of wood used in Kerala house design are teak, rosewood, and jackfruit. These woods are 
sourced from the forests of Kerala and neighboring states, such as Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
 Teak is a high-quality wood that is known for its strength, resistance, and elegance. Teak is used for rafters, beams, 
columns, doors, windows, and furniture. Teak has a golden brown color and a smooth texture that enhances the beauty 
of Kerala house design.
 Rosewood is a premium wood that is known for its opulence, durability, and fragrance. Rosewood is used for carvings, 
pillars, and furniture. Rosewood has a dark brown color and a fine grain that adds richness and character to Kerala 
house design.
 Jackfruit is a low-cost wood that is known for its availability, flexibility, and sustainability. Jackfruit is used for walls, 
floors, and roofs. Jackfruit has a light yellow color and a coarse texture that creates a rustic and natural feel in Kerala 
house design.
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VERANDAS AND GALLERY SPACES: LINKING THE INDOORS 
AND OUTDOORS IN KERALA HOUSE DESIGN
• Verandas and gallery spaces are open areas that surround the main building or connect different parts of the house. 
They are usually covered by sloping roofs and supported by wooden pillars.
• Verandas and gallery spaces are important for creating open and airy spaces in Kerala house design because they 
provide natural light and ventilation, as well as a seamless transition between the indoors and outdoors.
• Verandas and gallery spaces have various purposes and benefits, such as:
o They serve as meeting or gathering points for family and friends, where they can socialize, entertain, or 
celebrate.
o They offer a relaxing and comfortable space, where people can enjoy the views of the surrounding nature, 
read a book, or take a nap.
o They enhance the aesthetic appeal and elegance of the house, as they showcase the craftsmanship and 
design of the wooden elements and furniture.
• Some examples of verandas and gallery spaces and their furniture are:
o A spacious veranda with a jhoola, or a swing, that adds a playful and cozy touch to the space.
o A gallery space with chairs and tables, where people can have tea, snacks, or games.
o A veranda with a traditional Kerala-style sofa, or a charupadi, that provides a comfortable and stylish 
seating option.
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VENTILATION: ENSURING COMFORT AND FRESHNESS IN 
KERALA HOUSE DESIGN
• Ventilation is the process of exchanging indoor air with outdoor air, which helps to maintain a 
comfortable and healthy indoor environment
• Ventilation is essential for reducing the impact of high temperature and humidity in Kerala house 
design, because it can:
o Lower the indoor temperature by removing excess heat and allowing cooler air to enter.
o Reduce the indoor humidity by removing moisture and preventing mold and mildew growth
o Improve the indoor air quality by removing pollutants, odors, and allergens.
o Enhance the indoor comfort and well-being by creating a fresh and pleasant atmosphere.
• The methods and strategies used to achieve natural ventilation in Kerala house design are:
o Courtyards: These are open spaces in the center or around the house that act as lungs for the 
house. They allow natural light and air to enter the house and create a microclimate that 
moderates the temperature and humidity.
o Openings: These are windows, doors, skylights, and other apertures that provide cross 
ventilation and stack ventilation. Cross ventilation occurs when openings on opposite sides of 
the house allow air to flow horizontally, while stack ventilation occurs when openings on 
different levels of the house allow air to flow vertically.
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VENTILATION: ENSURING COMFORT AND FRESHNESS IN 
KERALA HOUSE DESIGN
o Louvers: These are slats or blades that can be adjusted to control the direction and amount of 
air flow. They are often used on windows, doors, and walls to regulate the ventilation and 
shading
o Shutters: These are panels that can be opened or closed to protect the openings from rain, 
wind, and sun. They are often made of wood, metal, or bamboo and can be decorated with 
carvings or paintings
• Some examples of ventilation and its effects on the indoor environment and energy efficiency are:
o A traditional Kerala house with a sloping roof and a central courtyard that provides natural 
ventilation and cooling.
o A modern Kerala house with large windows and louvers that allow natural ventilation and light.
o A green Kerala house with solar panels and rainwater harvesting that uses natural ventilation 
and renewable energy sources.
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ECO-FRIENDLY MATERIALS: PROMOTING SUSTAINABILITY 
AND HARMONY IN KERALA HOUSE DESIGN
• Eco-friendly materials are preferred and encouraged in Kerala house design because they have low 
environmental impact, high durability, and low cost. They also create a natural and aesthetic appeal 
that blends with the local culture and landscape.
• The types and sources of eco-friendly materials used in Kerala house design are:
o Bamboo: This is a fast-growing and renewable plant that can be used for structural support, 
roofing, fencing, and furniture. Bamboo is sourced from the forests and plantations of Kerala and 
neighboring states.
o Mud: This is a mixture of clay, sand, and water that can be used for making bricks, blocks, and 
plaster. Mud is sourced from the site itself or nearby areas. Mud has excellent insulation and 
thermal properties that keep the house cool and comfortable.
o Coconut: This is a versatile and abundant fruit that can be used for making coir, a fiber that can 
be used for making mats, ropes, and mattresses. Coconut can also be used for making shells, a 
hard material that can be used for making bowls, spoons, and lamps. Coconut is sourced from 
the coconut palms that grow abundantly in Kerala.
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• Some examples of eco-friendly materials and their applications are:
o A mud house that uses mud bricks, blocks, and plaster for the walls, 
floors, and roofs. The mud house also has bamboo rafters, columns, and 
doors that add strength and beauty to the structure.
o A bamboo house that uses bamboo poles, beams, and panels for the 
walls, floors, and roofs. The bamboo house also has bamboo furniture, 
such as chairs, tables, and beds that create a cozy and elegant space.
o A coconut house that uses coir mats, ropes, and mattresses for the 
flooring, bedding, and curtains. The coconut house also has coconut 
shells, bowls, spoons, and lamps that add a touch of creativity and charm 
to the decor.
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AESTHETIC PALETTE: REFLECTING THE CULTURE 
AND NATURE OF KERALA HOUSE DESIGN
• The aesthetic palette of Kerala house design is influenced by the culture and nature of 
Kerala, as it reflects the diversity, richness, and harmony of the region.
• The colors and patterns used in Kerala house design are inspired by the natural 
elements, such as the earth, water, sky, and vegetation, as well as the cultural 
symbols, such as the gods, festivals, and art forms.
• Some of the common colors and patterns used in Kerala house design are:
o White: This color represents purity, peace, and spirituality. It is often used for 
the walls, ceilings, and floors, creating a contrast with the wooden elements 
and furniture. White is also associated with the traditional attire of Kerala, such 
as the mundu and the saree.
o Green: This color represents nature, life, and prosperity. It is often used for the 
roofs, doors, and windows, creating a harmony with the surrounding 
landscapes. Green is also associated with the banana leaves, coconut palms, 
and paddy fields that are abundant in Kerala.
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AESTHETIC PALETTE: REFLECTING THE CULTURE AND 
NATURE OF KERALA HOUSE DESIGN
o Red: This color represents energy, passion, and auspiciousness. It is often 
used for the accents, such as the pillars, carvings, and paintings, creating 
a focal point and a vibrancy in the house. Red is also associated with the 
Hindu gods, such as Ganesha and Lakshmi, and the festivals, such as 
Onam and Vishu.
o Gold: This color represents wealth, royalty, and elegance. It is often used 
for the ornaments, such as the lamps, mirrors, and jewelry, creating a 
luxurious and opulent appeal in the house. Gold is also associated with 
the Kerala mural paintings, which depict the scenes from the epics and 
the legends.
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• Some examples of the aesthetic palette and its expressions are:
o A Kerala house with a white wall, a green roof, a red pillar, and a 
gold lamp, creating a stunning and balanced combination of colors 
and elements.
o A Kerala house with a white saree, a green banana leaf, a red 
flower, and a gold necklace, creating a beautiful and festive display 
of colors and items.
o A Kerala house with a white ceiling, a green door, a red painting, 
and a gold mirror, creating a splendid and artistic showcase of 
colors and objects.
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ADVANTAGES OF KERALA HOUSE DESIGN
o Cultural Heritage and Natural Beauty
o Climate Adaptability
o Comfort and Aesthetics
o Eco-Friendliness and Sustainability
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CONCLUSION : 
Designing a house for different seasons and climates in Kerala requires careful attention to the orientation, ventilation, 
materials, and aesthetics of the building. Kerala has a tropical climate with hot and humid summers, heavy monsoons, 
and mild winters. Therefore, the house should be able to adapt to the changing weather conditions and provide 
comfort and convenience to the occupants. Some of the features and considerations that can help achieve this are:
 Facing the house towards the prevailing winds and avoiding direct exposure to the sun.
 Creating courtyard spaces, verandas, and galleries to allow natural light and air circulation.
 Using slope roofs, clay tiles, and palm leaves to prevent rainwater accumulation and heat gain.
 Incorporating wooden elements, carvings, and furniture to add warmth and charm to the house.
 Following the principles of Vastu Shastra and Thachu Shastra to ensure harmony and balance in the layout and 
design of the house.
 Choosing eco-friendly and locally available materials that are durable and easy to maintain.
 Using a simple and elegant color palette that reflects the natural beauty of Kerala.
By following these guidelines, one can design a house that is not only beautiful and functional, but also respectful and 
responsive to the environment and culture of Kerala.
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S CLIODEN TTITALCET US : 
Architects, Interior Designers, and Landscape Designers
Trio-Chambers Kanjikuzhy, Kottayam – 686004
https://suvarnarekhadesign.com/
9446541538
[email protected] 
Thank you
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Thank you