When a doctor duo approached Clay Coop Architects to design their new 3,110-square-foot bungalow in Calicut, it marked the start of a dream collaboration, blending contemporary and vintage design elements. The design brief was straightforward—a home that reminded the couple of their ancestral homes while radiating modernity. Thus began the journey of the homeowners into their new abode in Kovoor, Navyam, which means “new beginnings.”
To understand the clients’ experiences in their ancestral homes, Ahmed Afsal and Devadathan Manakkal of Clay Coop Architects visited these homes, which were rich with Kerala’s traditional design language. “Navyam’s design combines mid-century modern and vintage Indian styles with seamless textures, aiming to create a home that balances functionality and unique identities for the users,” said the designers.
One enters the home through a semi-open patio embraced by lush greenery. Inside, the common spaces are adorned with selected Jaisalmer marble, giving a rich and elegant look. Situated at the northern end of the structure, the living room welcomes diffused light into the interiors, featuring traditional wooden upholstery by Clay Coop Innovations against the beige walls. A wooden grid ceiling connecting the living and dining areas adds an interesting visual element. Entering the dining area engulfs one with a sense of grandeur due to the double-height spatial arrangement. Most of the home's furniture is custom-made with ashwood and created by Clay Coop Architects, while the rest are refurbished from old pieces to evoke a tropical feel.
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The expansive dining area seamlessly extends into the informal living room and open kitchen, creating a cohesive and inviting space. The uniform colour palette and design elements ensure a harmonious flow between these areas and the use of greys and greens highlights an industrial aesthetic within a contemporary setting. The kitchen stands out with its unique design features. Custom-fabricated iron plates, coated with a subtle greenish tint, serve as stylish partitions. These are accentuated by small, functional tabletops that rest atop intricately patterned tiles, adding both visual interest and practicality. The overall design is a perfect blend of modern functionality and industrial charm, creating a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional.
The staircase, featuring sleek metallic handrails and compact storage underneath, elegantly connects the two floors. The juxtaposition of openings allows for a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors, fostering a sense of continuity and rhythm. The home showcases Jaisalmer marble and Kota stone, extensively carpeted with detailed elements of highlighters placed at intervals. As one moves through the different zones of the home, the walls are adorned with wooden décor, and the furniture, customized with artwork that harmonizes with the flooring, adds visual interest to the spaces.
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The private zone of the house, particularly the bedrooms, showcases the individual personalities of its inhabitants. The master bedroom features heirloom furniture with an authentic Kerala traditional fusion design. The essence of this space lies in the ingenious use of materials and a minimalist, stylish approach. In contrast, the kid's room is designed around their interest in the colour green, with customized furniture and artwork enhancing the space. Each area of this bungalow in Calicut radiates elements that blend authentic Kerala aesthetics with modernity, creating a perfect balance. This thoughtful integration ensures that every space feels both timeless and contemporary, providing a unique and welcoming environment for all.