Shaantivanam - Kollam, Kerala

Shaantivanam - A residence, Permaculture farm, bed&breakfast and hospice in a closed-loop system.

The Site is an untouched land of 30 cents, nestled into a dense green cover overlooking a canal. It is surrounded by a handful of buildings and is situated in the outskirts of Kollam city, Kerala.

Prerequisites of the client specify the need for minimal contradictions with the existing ecosystem of the site. Thus the structures are part of a closed-loop system where a symbiotic relationship with nature is formed. The resources within the site are to be used and rejuvenated. The materials used are to be ecofriendly and sustainable in nature, with maximum reused wood, doors, tiles etc.., Privacy is to be maintained , due to the three varied activities on site. All spaces in the site are to be made wheelchair accessible for universal accessibility.

Proposal at a Glance - The laterite periphery, exposed earthen walls, tiled roof and terracotta jaali blends in with the existing natural context. One enters through the padippura gate to a path leading to a large welcoming verandah of the residence with a towering mezzanine roof in the backdrop. The hospice and guest house on both side of the pathways, hint on other activities while maintaining its privacy. The overall scape resonates authenticity and harmony with nature.

Making a place - design process

The open plan design with integrated social and private spaces ensures both interaction and privacy. The design enables to explore the multitude of ways in carving spaces between courtyards, not only drawing natural light and air circulation(cutting down the direct heat gain) but also connecting to surrounding scape and sky. The mezzanine and the terrace spaces offer a view into the canal opposite the site.

The three core activity zones (residence, hospice, bed&breakfast) are connected through semi-open spaces  (common dining for guest house and seating verandah for hospice), ensuring privacy, transition and flexibility in usage. 

The hospice and guest house are separately accessible from the road and residence as well while the permaculture farm is a private zone accessible by the backyard foyer of the residence with a pond and swing to rest in. 

Site plan ensures open spaces for all to explore a wide range of activities with no dead zones.

Project Details :

Built area: 2500 sqft

Budget : 40 lakhs ( 10% contingency)

Materials and Techniques

• Exposed CSEB (compressed stabilised earth block) walls
• Load-bearing structure
• MS truss frame and Mangalore tile roofing
• Filler slab (reclaimed tiles as filler material)
• Red oxide and natural stone flooring
• Salvaged wooden doors and windows
• Inbuilt seating spaces
• Used bottles, terracotta jaalis
• Rainwater harvesting tank
• Solar panels for electricity
• Compost toilet
• Stormwater catchment pond
• Greywater treatment(Root zone treatment)
• Stone pavers