House Beneath a Jackfruit Tree is a 3,700 sq.ft home
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
When architect Safder Machilakath visited the 10,000 sq.ft plot on which he was to design a home, he was instantly drawn to a jackfruit tree on-site. “ Decades old, it sparked our imagination. We saw an opportunity to craft a residence that not only respects its natural setting but narrates the heritage of its surroundings,” says Machilakath, principal designer and co-founder of Uru Consulting.
The project commenced in August 2022, and took two years to complete
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement
Situated in Malappuram, Kerala, the now-completed 3,700 sq.ft. home — built at a cost of approx. ₹1.1 crore — is aptly titled ‘House Beneath a Jackfruit Tree’. “The design draws inspiration from the symbolic significance of the jackfruit tree, a motif that resonates across cultures as a sign of abundance and continuity,” explains Machilakath, adding, “Rather than following a conventional blueprint, we envisioned the house as a book, its pages unfurling the rich tales whispered by the venerable tree. Each design element is a chapter that pays homage to the legacy and natural beauty the tree imparts to the home.”
Custom-designed furniture and artisanal artifacts complement the home’s design.
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement
The project commenced in August 2022, and took two years to complete. While the tree, that bears fruit to this day, is the home’s focal point, other sustainable features of the home include raw-textured walls, a neutral tan palette comprising earthy brown, designs that incorporate ample natural light, to name a few. “To balance openness with the need for privacy in a densely surrounded locale, we extended the dining area with a curtain wall finished in intricate jaali work. This not only preserves the exclusivity of the space but also creates a serene, inviting patio,” says Machilakath, adding that custom-designed furniture and artisanal artifacts — crafted from reclaimed wood and natural materials — complement the home’s interiors.
Natural light played a significant role in the house’s design.
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement
Natural light, he says, played a significant role in the house’s design, “with a linear layout that maximises daylight from the East to create a sense of openness and grandeur”. He adds, “The over-projected roofs on the South side prevent excess sunlight, maintaining a comfortable balance of light and shade throughout the day.”
Sustainable features of the home include raw-textured walls, and a neutral tan palette.
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement
The largest spaces in the house are the dining and living areas that are designed with double-height ceilings “that amplify the feeling of space”. Since the home is situated in a plot surrounded by neighbouring houses, creating this spacious yet private family area was a significant design hurdle. “Bridge-like structures connect the stairs and bedrooms on the upper levels, fostering a sense of connection throughout the home. Every level is designed to encourage warm interactions, making it the perfect space for a close-knit family,” says Machilakath, adding that sourcing quality sustainable materials, navigating local regulations, and integrating modern eco-friendly systems required detailed planning.
Published – March 14, 2025 02:46 pm IST
