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Architecture

Dwelling with a difference

There are certain things that influence in the construction of a house. When they are joined in right proportion, the result will be fabulous. FWD Life traces new trends in architecture.

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Sufferings of people who live in concrete buildings are due to the high interior thermal discomfort. The domestic “active” cooling systems consume the most highly wanted precious energy and raise the cost of living. Our ancestors, who lived in tune with the nature, left the old conventional architectural wisdom untold. We built modern concrete jungles, being blind enough to see these magical designs, are now going back to these. The old architects, who used unknowingly most of the building technologies, were passively helping to control the indoor environment to provide thermal comfort.

These systems embedded in the “Kovilakoms” and other old traditional buildings being the signature of the old indigenous Kerala architectural design, is recreated in ‘Cool Home’ through modern technologies. An ultra-Low cost technology with luxurious interior is adopted here to make this the most loudly told success stories in the low cost building construction attempts.

Dr. Dili A. S, Professor,  Department of Architecture, TKM College of Engineering, Kollam has recently constructed an Ultra-Low cost Dwelling unit (two bath attached bedrooms with all facilities) on the terrace of an existing old house with a new technology and structural system. This house is equipped with an effective passive environment control system which makes the interior of the house ‘cool’ in all seasons. “This technology has been derived from my scientific research on the passive environment control system of traditional architecture of Kerala. This technology is also applicable for constructing houses in other warm-humid regions of India,” says Dr. Dili.

Natural resources like clay, river sand, rock etc. are heavily exploited for building construction nowadays. This will lead to serious environmental disorder in future. This type of construction reduces the use of such natural resources considerably and save the environment for our posterity. The energy consumption in this house is also very less compared to normal houses.

 

view of the Entry Foyer: The courtyard with plants provided at a lower level from this foyer is also visible.

view of the Entry Foyer: The courtyard with plants provided at a lower level from this foyer is also visible.

 

Dining Room : The Living Room is also visible, Ambient lighting is given on the top of wash basin.

Dining Room : The Living Room is also visible, Ambient lighting is given on the top of wash basin.

 

 

Steps leading to the Dining Room at a lower level from Living Room.

Steps leading to the Dining Room at a lower level from Living Room.

Project location

The terrace of around 70-year-old single storeyed flat concrete-roofed house (“Kayavil House”) located at Mayyanad in Kollam was selected for the construction of “Cool Home”.

Project requirements

An independent two bedroom dwelling unit for a small family with the following requirements: External stair case, semi open verandah suitable for entry foyer and living, living room, dining room, two bedrooms with attached toilets for each, dining room, kitchen with storage facility, work area, utility space.

Technology 

This house is equipped with an effective passive environment control system which makes the interior of the house cool in all seasons. This system is equipped in the building with an attic space above the false ceiling (protected with glass wool insulation) which is well ventilated with slits of appropriate sizes protected by steel grills.

Construction

Construction started from the roof structure. Almost 0.35mm thick, trafford shaped, powder coated steel sheet roof is supported by two inch diameter G.I pipe pillars. G.I rectangular tubes (1 x 3 inches) were used for main truss work of the roof. 1.5 inch steel purloins were used to join the steel sheets with the main truss work. Double protection has been ensured by sealing the holes (from the bottom), generated when the “J” bolts are fitted for joining the purloins with the sheets in additions to the tar washer provided on the top.

Constructing the roof first provides multiple benefits. Labourers are protected from severe weather exterior leads to the enhanced work efficiency. Since the sunlight is not falling on the walls directly, it is possible to ensure proper curing of the masonry at the time of construction of the walls. Four inch thick, locally available concrete hollow blocks are used for the construction of walls with M-sand cement mortar. Stiffness of the wall is related to its thickness. Certain folding has been provided specially to give stiffness to the walls which are thin. Additionally, six inch thick concrete belt has been inscribed into the wall to add a tie effect to the walls. This belt, reinforced by eight inch diameter steel bars, act as lintel beam above the doors and windows.

Total height of the walls is fixed at nine feet and it helped to reduce the cost of construction. River sand has been used for plastering and it improved the finishing of the walls when emulsion paint was applied with rollers on smooth putty work.

Another specialty of this design is the use of low cost windows. Steel windows are made of two inch G. I. square tube outer frames and the same tube of one inch size shutter frames. The four millimeter thick glass panes are directly fixed on the shutter frames using silicone sealant.

Instead of concrete slabs, high finished gypsum board false ceiling has been provided above the walls. The heat flow through the roof and false ceiling towards the interior is controlled by two inch thick glass wool which is evenly laid on the top of gypsum board. An attic space between the roof and false ceiling has been set up as a passive thermal control system to provide comfort to the interior space. Security is ensured by a grill work of 10mm diameter steel bars around the attic space above the external walls. This is working as a passive thermal control system similar to the attic space in traditional houses of Kerala. Heat transmitted to the attic space from the roof is directed to the outside air through the grills.  Fiber net covering the external grills around the attic space protects the area from external surroundings.

Pre-laminated wood is used for flooring the bedroom and living area. Premium quality vitrified tiles are used for flooring the other rooms. Factory made doors with processed wood are used for external and bedroom doors. PVC doors are used for toilets. To make the “poomukham” more attractive, terra cotta  coloured rustic finish tiles, pebble courtyard, pebble boarders, indoor plants, low sitting area, and calcium silicate false ceiling are used and it has proved that the design has not compromised on the beauty and finish of the house for reducing the cost.

 

View of Poomukham : Calcium Silicate false ceiling is provided on the top, The Slits with Grills provided for the hot air to escape form the attic space is also visible

View of Poomukham : Calcium Silicate false ceiling is provided on the top, The Slits with Grills provided for the hot air to escape form the attic space is also visible

 

Low Level Sitting area provided at the North East corner of the Poomukham

Low Level Sitting area provided at the North East corner of the Poomukham

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Design result

Semi open space, living room, dining room, kitchen, work area, utility space and two bath attached bedrooms were included in the new “Cool Home” and it was perfectly finished with a plinth area of about 1350 square feet. The total cost of construction amounts to Rs. 6.8 lakh only. The terrace taken for the construction has been made with different levels in the past by some additions and modifications. It has changed this into a multi level terrace. This multi-level terrace building top has been made attractive and useful by this new design.

Front lower terrace has been attached to the semi open verandah. This appears like the conventional sit out (Poomukham) and entry to this portion is from the stair case provided outside in its lower most portion. This stair case has been made with steel framework having one inch thick Ferro cement slabs as treads. The main entrance to the house is from the “Poomukham” through an entry foyer at a rise of eight inches. The pebble courtyard with plants provided at a lower level (17 inches) from this foyer has made the main entrance attractive.

Entry foyer, living room and one bath attached bedroom are at the same level. Entry to the dining room situated seventeen inches below the living room, has been given access with granite steps fixed in steel fabricated framework. Dining, another bath attached bedroom, Kitchen and work area are at the same level. Utility space has been provided at a three steps depth from the work area. Low cost building with high finishing and cool interior has been a dream and it has come true.

*Courtesy:

Dr Dili. A.S, Architect

Mob: 94473 03875

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Architecture

5 Sustainable Interior Design Trends to Embrace in 2024

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As the world becomes increasingly aware of the importance of sustainability, it’s no surprise that eco-friendly practices are making their way into the realm of interior design. In 2024, we can expect to see a surge in sustainable interior design trends that not only enhance the beauty of our living spaces but also minimise our environmental footprint. From repurposed materials to energy-efficient solutions, here are five sustainable interior design trends to embrace this year.

Upcycled Furniture:

One of the most prominent sustainable interior design trends of 2024 is the use of upcycled furniture. Instead of buying new pieces, consider giving old furniture a new lease on life by refurbishing or repurposing them. From reclaimed wood tables to refurbished chairs, upcycled furniture adds character and charm to your space while reducing waste and conserving resources.

Biophilic Design:

Biophilic design, which emphasizes a connection to nature, continues to gain popularity in 2024. Integrating natural elements such as plants, natural light, and organic materials into your interior design not only enhances aesthetics but also promotes well-being and sustainability. Consider incorporating living walls, indoor gardens, and sustainable wood finishes to bring the outdoors inside and create a healthier living environment.

Energy-Efficient Lighting:

With a growing focus on energy conservation, energy-efficient lighting solutions are becoming a staple in sustainable interior design. LED lights, in particular, consume significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer, reducing both energy consumption and maintenance costs. Additionally, consider incorporating natural light sources such as skylights and large windows to maximize daylight and minimize the need for artificial lighting during the day.

Sustainable Textiles:

When it comes to upholstery and soft furnishings, opting for sustainable textiles is key to reducing environmental impact. Look for fabrics made from organic or recycled materials, such as organic cotton, hemp, bamboo, or recycled polyester. These materials not only reduce the use of harmful chemicals and pesticides but also minimize waste and support eco-friendly production practices. Additionally, consider investing in durable, high-quality textiles that stand the test of time, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Smart Home Technology:

In 2024, smart home technology continues to evolve, offering innovative solutions for sustainable living. From smart thermostats that optimize energy usage to home automation systems that control lighting and appliances, these technologies can help reduce energy consumption and increase efficiency in your home. Additionally, smart home devices such as occupancy sensors and smart meters provide valuable insights into your energy usage, empowering you to make informed decisions about resource management and conservation.

As we strive to create more sustainable living environments, embracing these five interior design trends can help reduce our environmental impact while creating beautiful and functional spaces. Whether you’re upcycling old furniture, incorporating natural elements, or investing in energy-efficient technologies, every sustainable choice contributes to a greener future for generations to come. So let’s embrace these trends and make sustainability a cornerstone of our interior design practices in 2024 and beyond.

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Architecture

Designing a Functional Home Office: Tips for Productivity and Comfort

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In today’s ever-evolving work landscape, the home office has become an essential sanctuary for productivity and creativity. Whether you’re a remote worker, freelancer, or entrepreneur, designing a functional home office is paramount for maintaining focus, maximizing efficiency, and enhancing overall well-being. Here are some expert tips to help you create a workspace that promotes productivity and comfort:

Choose the Right Location

 Select a quiet and well-lit area in your home that is conducive to work. Ideally, this space should be away from distractions like heavy foot traffic or noise from common areas.

Invest in Ergonomic Furniture

 Your office chair and desk are vital components of your workspace. Invest in ergonomic furniture that promotes good posture and reduces the risk of discomfort or injury during long hours of work.

Prioritize Natural Light

 Position your desk near a window to take advantage of natural light. Natural light not only enhances mood and energy levels but also reduces eye strain and fatigue.

Declutter Regularly

Keep your workspace clutter-free by organizing cables, files, and supplies. A clean and organized environment fosters clarity of mind and helps minimize distractions.

Personalize Your Space

 Incorporate elements that inspire and motivate you, such as artwork, plants, or motivational quotes. Personalizing your space can boost creativity and make your home office feel more inviting.

Optimize Technology Setup

 Ensure that your technology setup including your computer, monitor, keyboard, and mouse is optimized for efficiency and comfort. Consider investing in accessories like an adjustable monitor stand or a wireless keyboard and mouse for added flexibility.

Incorporate Greenery

 Introduce plants into your home office to improve air quality and add a touch of nature to your space. Plants not only enhance aesthetics but also have been shown to reduce stress and increase productivity.

Create a Distraction-Free Zone

Minimize distractions by setting boundaries with family members or roommates and establishing specific work hours. Consider using noise-canceling headphones or a white noise machine to block out unwanted sounds.

By implementing these tips, you can design a home office that promotes productivity, creativity, and overall well-being. Remember that every individual’s needs and preferences are unique, so feel free to experiment and adjust your workspace to suit your specific requirements. With a well-designed home office, you’ll be better equipped to tackle your tasks with focus, efficiency, and comfort.

 

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A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Colors for Your Home Interior

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Your home is your sanctuary, and choosing the right colors for its interior can significantly impact the atmosphere and ambiance of each room. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy retreat, a vibrant living space, or a serene oasis, selecting the perfect color palette is key. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of choosing the right colors for your home interior to reflect your personal style and create a harmonious living environment.

Consider the Mood You Want to Create:

The first step in choosing the right colors for your home interior is to consider the mood or atmosphere you want to evoke in each room. Do you prefer a calming and serene space, or are you looking for something more vibrant and energizing? Think about how you want to feel when you’re in each room and choose colors that align with those emotions.

Take Lighting into Account:

Lighting plays a crucial role in how colors appear in a room. Natural light can enhance certain hues while making others appear dull. Consider the direction and intensity of natural light in each room when choosing paint colors. Rooms with ample natural light can handle bold and vibrant colors, while those with less light may benefit from softer, lighter shades.

Create a Cohesive Color Scheme:

To ensure a cohesive flow throughout your home, choose a consistent color scheme that ties all the rooms together. You can achieve this by selecting a few key colors and using them in different combinations throughout the house. Neutral colors like whites, grays, and beiges make excellent base tones, while accent colors can add pops of personality and interest.

Explore Color Psychology:

Color psychology can help you understand how different colors can affect mood and behavior. For example, blue is often associated with calmness and tranquility, making it an excellent choice for bedrooms and bathrooms. Yellow, on the other hand, can evoke feelings of happiness and energy, making it ideal for kitchens and living areas. Consider the psychological effects of each color when making your choices.

Test Paint Samples:

Before committing to a color for your walls, it’s essential to test paint samples in the actual space. Paint a small section of the wall with your chosen colors and observe how they look throughout the day in different lighting conditions. This will help you make an informed decision and ensure that you’re happy with the final result.

Don’t Forget About Accents and Accessories:

In addition to wall colors, consider how accent pieces and accessories can complement your chosen color scheme. Throw pillows, rugs, curtains, artwork, and furniture upholstery can all add depth and dimension to your space while tying the room together visually.

Choosing the right colors for your home interior is a personal and creative process that can transform your living space into a place you love to call home. By considering the mood you want to create, taking lighting into account, creating a cohesive color scheme, exploring color psychology, testing paint samples, and incorporating accents and accessories, you can design a home that reflects your unique style and personality. So, let your creativity flow, and enjoy the process of bringing your vision to life!

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