IHA Residence by Wallmakers in Tiruvannantapuram, India

Project: IHA Residence
Architects: Wallmakers
Location: Tiruvannantapuram, India
Area: 287.5 sq.m
Photography: Anand Jadhav, Sharan Pillai

IHA Residence by Wallmakers

The IHA Residence, designed by architects Wallmakers, is an eco-friendly sanctuary located in Tiruvannantapuram, India. Mrs. Tara Pillai and Mr. Srikuumar, clients from Delhi, sought a peaceful retreat harmonizing with the bustling city. The house effortlessly blends tranquility and warmth with adventurous and wild design elements.

Overcoming the challenge of low elevation prone to flooding, architects developed a solution allowing water to flow freely and enhance spatial characteristics. They introduced a pond at the lowest point of the site to retain water and create a scenic atmosphere.

The clients, Mrs. Tara Pillai and Mr. Srikuumar based in Delhi, wanted eco-friendly housing that preserves calmness and silence amidst the noisy city of Trivandrum.

The house embodies an atmosphere that is inherently contradictory – peaceful and cozy with minimalist design, yet adventurous and wild in structure.

The site was located on low terrain with flooding issues, which served as the main obstacle we had to overcome. The core idea was for the building not to impede water flow. Being in a state like Kerala, where heavy rains are common, we needed to ensure rainwater percolates into the soil and can be collected. We had to find an alternative and sustainable solution that would also enhance spatial quality – a pond at the lowest point of the plot to retain water on-site and add a realistic atmosphere to the dwelling.

Using bamboo for the facade had its drawbacks – it is fragile and cannot bear the full weight of a large structure. This obstacle was overcome and disproven by the project. The bamboo facade is created and secured in a stable position using steel rods. A continuous chain of bamboo provides the front elevation of the house, supporting a hanging staircase and creating a semi-open space for contemplation.

The unique shape of CSEB bricks (compressed stabilized earth blocks) is used to create a rotating lattice pattern that ensures privacy for bedrooms. Additionally, light creates an effect; the sequential polar arrangement allows unobstructed air circulation and ensures good ventilation.

Using washing machine bases as dumps instead of new factory models is an essential part of the house. Utilizing such dumps rather than new models promotes the idea of restoration and serves as a source of income for workers who sweat to create exquisite artworks.

We attempted small changes in the routine waste process by incorporating what we often see at dumps. Using welded washing machine motor bases not only encourages sustainable living and reuse but also adds beauty to the house. Turning waste materials into something extraordinary becomes possible.

What distinguishes this home from typical residential spaces is its simple and minimalist interior. Architects use felled trees and wood waste from timber harvesting companies as furniture for the house.

The structure is closely connected to nature through topography, design, and materials. The house embraces and remains close to the surrounding calmness while also reflecting an external and friendly ambiance inside its four walls.

–Wallmakers