Project name : Harris Residence
Client : Mr. Harris and family
Completion year : 2021
Plot Area : 1.52 acres
Built Area : 9570.6 sq.ft.
Project Location : Kanhagad, Kerala

Experiencing architecture strengthens one’s sense of being in the world, as it engages  multiple human senses, and essentially becomes an extended experience of the self.  Perceiving architecture with more than mere vision allows a deeper sense of  connection with the built space, and good design must strive to provide this experience  to the visitor. For this residence, it was key that the planning cleared away any feeling  of detachment, within or outside the residence. With a transition of uncontrolled to  controlled landscape, a second skin encasing the house and tackling the senses, a  variety of architectural strategies help remove any feeling of disconnection felt within  the space.  

For a large family, it was key to plan spaces such that they do not seem too distant or  cramped. The planning follows the placement of rectangular masses along a grid  pattern. Incorporating functions from a naalu-kettu with a modern outlook, the chuttu verandah (a continuous veranda running along the periphery) acts as a buffer in  addition to being used for transition. A second skin was yet another concept introduced  to the residence. Something that simplifies the path from the busy streets to the  residence. It also serves the building with different ranges of privacy with open spaces,  semi-private spaces and complete privacy, in areas it is needed. In addition to the  second skin, the western side is also lined with vegetation. The greens, along with the second-skin allow the soft filtered light to enter the interiors. The facade treatment is  done based on climate and function. There are provisions of louvres, vertical gardens,  jaali for the purpose of privacy, aesthetics and functionality. There is also special  consideration given to the landscaping. Outside the second skin, there exists an  uncontrolled landscape that then transitions into a controlled landscape inside the  second skin.  

Harris’ Residence is a culmination of traditional concepts with a modern outlook. From  staying true to the roots by function and incorporating stylish elements to enhance the  appearance, it can be considered an all-rounder in terms of aesthetics and  functionality. With the prominence given to reducing any feeling of detachment, the  house is built along with a grid pattern, with precise and careful planning of spaces.  Tackling not just the visual sense but the tactile and olfactory, the residence is one  that is enhanced by its sensorial nature. And with it, the personal connections.