(NOT A) CHETTINAD HOUSE

The project is a 2200 sqft residence in a north facing plot of size 25′ x 50′ for Mr. Alagar and Ms. Jayanthi in Velachery. The Clients have their roots in the Chettinad region and their primary brief was to design a house which reflects the architectural characteristics of their region.

Initially the project was conceived as a twin house along with the neighboring plot for which various options were developed (later only one of the houses were taken up)

Subsequently we studied the layout, geometric proportions and layout of the Chettinad architecture. We took inspiration from these aspects and incorporated those relevant to the project.

The symmetrical facade with towers on either sides and verandah in the middle inspired the front facade and the form development.

The overall aesthetic reflects the contemporary spirit with stilt floor, rectangular volumes, white surfaces and clean lines whereas the railings,flooring, doors windows, veranda and roof elements have references to architecture of the native.

Considering the requirements of car parking in the ground floor all the habitable rooms were planned in the first and second floor.

built-in seats with storage below.

Athangudi tile flooring is used throughout the house, which adds the richness and vibrancy in the house.

The skylight above the courtyard and the windows all around the staircase headroom above provide natural lighting throughout the day, which otherwise would have been dark due to lack of setbacks on the sides.