There is truly no equal match to the charm of handcrafted things; it allures even the most unsentimental souls. Consequently, a home filled with such skillfully crafted fragments transforms into a perfect haven for its residents. Kaivinai, which translates to ‘handcrafted house’ in Tamil, features elements that impeccably align with its name creating an idyllic sanctuary.

FACT FILE

This abode is fashioned for an elderly couple coming from Tamil Nadu, who predominantly spent most of their lives in Bengaluru. Once, the plot housed a villa, but underwent a transformation as the couple retired. Nestled in a verdant neighbourhood, the plot is abutted with residences on either side, providing a challenge of inviting in the natural light.

Spanning across three floors, the residents occupy the second floor, while the ground and first floors are dedicated rental units. These units are rented to young couples, providing not only a sense of companionship to the retired couple but also creating a sense of community.

CELEBRATION OF ANTIQUITY

The brief given to the architects was to craft an abode that served as a veritable canvas for displaying art, and cherished family heirlooms. The seamless fusion of reclaimed materials within the three-storied home sets the tone for the architectural narrative that unveils the cultural resonance.

An ensemble of four Chettinad-style columns extends a warm welcome to its visitors. These venerable, 125-year-old columns were salvaged from a junkyard in Karaikudi, embodying a commitment to the overarching theme of sustainability. Many of the furniture pieces used in the home are reclaimed from the old villa. These pieces stand the testament of time becoming an heirloom while also  providing a functional use. A partition, that poetically separates the dining and the family lounge, is crafted with stone seating flanked by stately wooden columns paying a tribute to the inhabitants’ roots. This ensemble is called the ‘Thinnai’ and is seen in most traditional homes in Tamil Nadu .

LOCAL AT HEART

Every household in Southern India has a rangoli or a pattern called ‘Kolam’ that adorns their entrance. Keeping with the similar tradition this dwelling flaunts a brass inlay of the ‘Kolam’ pattern in grey Kota stone that leads the visitor to the inner sanctum of the dwelling.

While brainstorming different styles of artworks the architects finally found the one, the home was to be designed around this artworks. The clients found contact for the artist at a local art school; Guruvayur School of Arts and requested a custom-made mural design. A captivating Ganesha painting was custom-made on the entrance foyer in shades of crimson, coral, and chrome and was set in a niche, becoming a highlight of the dwelling.

A sheer, carved, wooden partition, artfully fused with whimsical Channapatna toys, beckons a viewer into their nostalgic carefree childhood days. These toys hail from Channapatna, a city just 60km away from Bengaluru. It was the architect's conscious efforts to support this local artistry.

EMBLEMATIC SOUTH INDIAN ELEMENTS

A collection of handmade Athangudi tiles is unveiled throughout the house. These tiles are emblematic of every Tamil Nadu household, becoming an identifying factor in their decor. These tiles are handmade, hailing from the village of Athangudi in the Chettinad region of Tamil Nadu, India. They are renowned for their vibrant colours, intricate patterns and durability, and are locally made using local soil, cement, baby jelly, and synthetic oxides that give them the desired hues.

In this home, the architect chose flooring as her canvas to pay homage to the family’s roots. A collection of verdant Athangudi tiles was chosen by the architect behind a Chettinad- style wooden door that welcomes the visitor to the inner sanctum. Along the eastern periphery of the living area, a lining of chrome Athangudi tiles, that reflect the radiant myriad hues of the morning sun. Similarly, in every space different hues and patterns exude a warm vibrant vibe.

Kaivinai is a conscious effort by the architects to celebrate local craftsmanship and trail the rich heritage of these handmade arts. In this pursuit, the whimsical dwelling transports one to the timeless vintage realms while simultaneously integrating a contemporary approach. It pays due reverence to the pressing concept of sustainability that has become imperative in modern times.

To watch the complete home tour, peruse the drawings in detail and browse additional photographs, visit Buildofy. While there, don’t miss out on the other impressive contemporary homes in Maharashtra and across India.