- Typology: Residence – House
- Name of Project: Nirupamam Residence
- Location: Trivandrum
- Principal Architect: Ar. Rahul Kumar
- Design Team: ARK Architecture Studio
- Built-Up Area: 3100 sq. ft
- Completion Date: 2021
- Photographer: Out of focus
- Material Used: Patterned ceramic tiles, Terracotta camp jaalis, Terracotta cladding, and Green synthetic enamel paint.
Nirupamam means unique and incomparable. It is a residential apartment; located in Trivandrum, Nettayam, Kerala. Spread on a spacious 3100 square feet of land. Rahul Kumar, the principal architect of the ARK Architecture Studio, designed Nirupamam. Rahul adopted a minimalistic approach and proceeded with creating Nirupamam, thus, making it palpable and hospitable. The build is such that it gives you a flavor of Indian tadka over western architecture with the use of eco-friendly construction materials. The building was ready in 2021. The enticing view of Nirupamam and the story of the materials used in designing it are worth knowing. Also, check The Vora’s Penthouse by Archaic Design Studio.
Material Of Architecture:
The construction of the Nirupamam residence took a significant amount of eco-friendly construction materials ranging from alluring patterned ceramic tiles, terracotta camp jaalis, terracotta cladding, and green synthetic enamel paint. The appreciating factor here is understanding where and why the architect curated these materials. Terracotta holds a special place here. Let’s find out why?
Patterned ceramic tiles:
Formed by clay, water, sand, and quartz amalgamation, these find a broader application in restaurants, offices, and residential complexes. The use of ceramics in the construction industry is increasing exponentially in emerging economies such as India, China, Brazil, and South Asian countries. The infrastructure in today’s world is advancing, and so is the means of manufacturing ceramics. The abundance of ceramic tiles has grown and thus opening a window for ceramics in the modern construction industry. Ceramics are brittle, show good tolerance toward acidic materials, can withstand heat, and are less tensile. Owing to these features, an extra edge, which appeals to the middle-class masses is its facile cleaning, maintenance, and availability at affordable prices.
Advantages:
- Patterned ceramic tiles can add a decorative touch to a space and can come in a wide range of designs and colors. They can be used to create a unique and interesting visual effect on walls and floors.
- Ceramic tiles are hard, strong, and durable, they can withstand heavy foot traffic, and they can be resistant to scratches, stains, and moisture.
Factors to consider:
- Installing patterned ceramic tiles can be a complex and time-consuming process, especially for more intricate designs. It requires a high level of expertise and precision to lay the tiles in a way that ensures they align properly and look good.
- Patterned ceramic tiles can be expensive, especially if they are imported or handmade. Additionally, the cost of labor for installing ceramic tiles may be higher compared to other materials.
Terracotta Camp Jaalis:
Terracotta is a brownish-red clay that was used historically and is considered to be one of the renowned eco-friendly construction materials. We find much evidence of terracotta being used in the Harappan civilization. The people then used terracotta to produce toys and pots. The architect could have used terracotta camp jaalis for their attractive appearance, and because it is a catalyst in reducing temperature.
Advantages:
- Terracotta camp jaalis (lattice screens) are beautiful and intricate geometric patterns, that can be used to create a decorative and unique visual effect in a space. They can be used in both indoor and outdoor settings and can add a traditional or modern touch to any architectural style.
- Terracotta is a hard, dense material resistant to fire, decay, and insects. It is also a great insulator, which can help to keep a building cool in summer and warm in winter.
Factors to consider:
- Terracotta camp jaalis are porous and can absorb moisture, which can lead to staining and discoloration over time if not properly sealed and maintained. They are also vulnerable to frost damage in cold climates.
- Terracotta camp jaalis can be more expensive than other decorative elements and the cost of labor for installing and maintaining them may be higher compared to other materials. Additionally, they can be heavy and difficult to handle, which can add to the cost of installation.
Terracotta Cladding:
Cladding means a layer or a mantle. It is laid on a wall and it provides thermal insulation. Terracotta, as you know, is made from clay, and clay comes from the earth, so it acts as a better temperature regulator.
Advantages:
- The terracotta cladding has a unique, natural, and earthy appearance that can add warmth and character to a space. It can be used to create various architectural styles, from traditional to contemporary.
- Terracotta is a hard, dense material resistant to fire, decay, and insects. It is also a great insulator, which can help to keep a building cool in summer and warm in winter.
Factors to consider:
- Terracotta cladding is porous and can absorb moisture, which can lead to staining and discoloration over time if not properly sealed and maintained. It is also vulnerable to frost damage in cold climates.
- Terracotta cladding can be more expensive than other cladding materials and the cost of labor for installing and maintaining terracotta cladding may be higher compared to other materials. Additionally, it can be heavy and difficult to handle, which can add to the cost of installation.
The Green Synthetic Enamel Paint:
Prepared from oil and is incredibly glossy. Synthetic paints are eminent for their matt finishes and lustrous appearance. They are widely used in painting wooden articles and plastered veneer. The color lasts longer than any mainstream paint. This paint comes in a receptacle/bucket and can be applied directly to the surface without diluting it.
Advantages:
- Green synthetic enamel paint is a type of oil-based paint that is known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear. It is also resistant to fading, chalking, and mildew, which can help to extend the life of a painted surface.
- Synthetic enamel paints are easy to clean and maintain, which can be beneficial for high-traffic areas or surfaces that are subject to dirt, grime, and other forms of wear and tear.
Factors to consider:
- Synthetic enamel paint contains Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) which are harmful to human health and the environment. They can cause respiratory problems and contribute to air pollution.
- Synthetic enamel paint takes longer to dry compared to other types of paint, which can slow down the painting process and make it difficult to use in certain situations. It also has a stronger odor which can be unpleasant to some people and can take longer to dissipate.
Conclusion:
Nirupamam residence is indeed an achievement for ARK Architecture Studio because of the eco-friendly used construction materials. The interiors and their wise choice of materials remind us of their sincerity toward the client’s requirements. Also, check the construction materials used in the “Upstairs”, by Purple Backyard.
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Sri Ganesh Nazre comes from a Computer Science background and is a content author who has previously worked with Sorted Square Digital Co-Working, Team Everest, and Track2Training. His ability to break and write complex information into easy-to-understand chunks is commendable.
