Case study -Kerala

Vernacular
Architecture

Presented by :
Sowmya Su, I Sem,
Master architecture in sustainable design
Bharathi Vidyapeeth school of architecture
Pune

Case Study: Vernacular Architecture of Kerala

Kerala
vernacular
architecture
Kerala’s vernacular architecture is ancient and ingenuous. For centuries, built form in Kerala has
taken shape based on the principles of Vaastushastra, an ancient traditional Indian system
of architecture. Vaastushastra is believed to have evolved as a philosophy during the Vedic period,
the basic concept of which is to treat the site and its context as complementary to each other.
Vaastushastra developed into distinct regional styles in various parts of the subcontinent. Most
regional styles experienced significant transformations between the 15 th Century BCE and the
modern day, while it is noteworthy to realize its preservation, in original forms, in the state of
Kerala. Elements of traditional architecture in Kerala, such as roofing systems, resonate with those
of architectural styles in Sumatra, Malaysia, Thailand and Cambodia (Figure 1-2)
Figure STYLEREF 1 \s 1 SEQ Figure \* ARABIC \s 1 1 Architectural Continuity of Kerala and Southeast Asian
Architecture

Source: Widiastuti, 2004

Traditional Kerala architecture is the Vastu Vidhya, derived from the Stapatya Veda of Adharva Veda.
It deals with two categories in architecture – Residential Architecture (Manusyalaya) under
functional architecture, and Temple Architecture under conceptual architecture (Ashalatha 1994).

Kerala’s vernacular architecture is known for ages for its climate responsive design for comfortable
indoor environments. Principles of vernacular architecture of Kerala are based on empirical
observations and experimental knowledge and skill acquired through centuries. It is observed to be
highly effective in providing thermally comfortable indoor environments – cool during summers and
warm in winters.

Warm-humid regions demand building envelopes which maintain indoor temperature at optimum
andcan provide controlled constant airflow. In Kerala, this is achieved though highly insulative
building envelopes, presence of internal courtyards within dwellings and provision of optimum
window openings on external walls (Dili 2010).

Building Orientation

Vernacular buildings in Kerala are oriented strictly according to the cardinal directions, based on
vasthusasthra. This renders the building efficiency in controlling its internal environment, providing
comfort irrespective of changing seasons. Cardinal directions are determined using traditional
techniques based on solar paths and shadows. The entry to buildings is provided from South or East.
Spaces used during the day are placed on the North and South, while those used during nights are
on the West (Dili, 2010).

Dwelling Form and Layout

According to structural and spatial arrangements found in Kerala’s vernacular dwelling forms, there
are four general types (veedu). These forms often reflect social and economic structures established
in settlements.

1. Rectangular Hall (I-Shape) Type

I-shaped structures constitute an individual small rectangular unit flanked by horizontal annular
beams, standing on a raised floor, compartmented into inner and front spaces, and occasionally
extended with a porch and a sitting platform. This type demonstrates the significance of spatial
openness and multiutility (Indiah, 2013).

2. Rectangular Single-Hall Type (Ekasala with Ara)

Agrarian cultures advanced the rectangular hall type structure by multi-purposing a room as grain
storages, granaries and treasuries (ara). Identified as the most refined type of a single hall structure
(ekasala) that constitutes a basic configuration of residential building (veedu), this form consist of a
veranda (tazhavaram) and an inner core, comprising segmented spaces for granary (ara) and various

supporting function rooms (mooris or kalavaras) for living including cooking and storage underneath
(nilavara) (Indiah, 2013).

3. Traditional Courtyard House

Courtyard house or catusala have been known as the most representative typology of houses in
India. Catusalas in Kerala are known as nalukettu - which stands for a house with four encircling
halls. Established by four rectangular halls (vidik sala), connected to one another by intermediary
structures (dik sala and alindam), all halls in this typology are bracketed by annular walls (uttaram),
on top of which the single encircling roof rest (Indiah, 2013).

Based on the size and importance of the household, such buildings may have one or two upper
storeys or modules with enclosed courtyards. In the case of repeated modules, the nalukettu

becomes ettukettu (eight blocks building) or a group of such courtyards. The enclosed courtyard is
usually sunken. The verandas opening to the courtyards block intense solar radiation from entering
the rooms.

4. Vernacular Courtyard House

Many cases of courtyard houses do not strictly obey the canonical principle of Vaastu. Some local
varieties of nalukettu are observed to have appeared. A variation of nalukettu structure that
performs more or less as an openly laid-out space around a small courtyard exists. There also exists a
type of courtyard structure which does not fit the description of nalukettu with regard to the circular
structure of space, and roof form (Indiah, 2013). It is principally an extended ekasala whose
additional extension simply leaves an inner void (courtyard-like extension) called Kuttikettu
(Thampuran 2001).
Constituent spaces

A typical Kerala vernacular house consists of two major living areas, inner spaces around the
courtyard and the outer verandas including the portico (poomukham). The house form offers
flexibility for dwellers to shift their activities from one space to another in different climatic
conditions. A typical house consists of verandas, drawing rooms, bedrooms (occasionally with a
granary-pathayam), dining and kitchen spaces, work areas and toilets and godowns for storage. An
attic is constructed a manner such that it is provisioned with required ventilation.
 Figure STYLEREF 1 \s 1 SEQ Figure \* ARABIC \s 1 2 A typical layout of a vernacular Kerala house.

Source: Dili et. al (2010)

Spatial planning of a nalukettu revolves around a central courtyard. The entrance usually from the
South or East. Rooms are sandwiched between two verandas - one external and one internal. The
external veranda running along the building footprint performs as a buffer, reducing direct entry of
heat into living spaces. The internal veranda, which is the major circulation spine of the building, acts
as buffer space dissipating and distributing light and air coming in from courtyards into the building.
High plinths are provided to prevent moisture from seeping in from the ground.

Rooms used during day, such the semi-open space which functions as the living room and the
entrance which also doubles up as a drawing room, are placed on the South East and Southern sides
respectively to protect from harsh sunlight from the West. It is relatively easy to reduce solar heat
gain on South by means of nominal shading devices as the sun angle is high along the South.
(Thirumaran et al., 2017).

Living Areas and Kitchen

Living spaces are semi-open, and are located on the South, with optimum number of openings for
ventilation. Since the prevailing wind direction is from South West to North East, the kitchen is
located at the North-East corner to avoid the spread of hot air from kitchen to other spaces creating
thermal imbalance. Space for religious worship is either separated and opens out to the central
courtyard, or is designed to blend with common living areas (Thirumaran et al., 2017).

Bedrooms and Guest Rooms

Bedrooms are arranged around the internal courtyard in such a manner as to permit adequate air
movement in all seasons (Dili, 2010). Bedrooms are rectangular in form, and are often of similar
sizes.

Courtyards

An important aspect of the Kerala architecture is the usage of courtyards. They are major activity
spaces where bathing, cooking, sleeping and socializing takes place at different periods of time. In
summers, the inner courtyard is purposed for drying, cleaning and preparation of cereals, food, etc.
The courtyard also functions as a major functional element in the dwelling, with most internal
movement confined around it.

A courtyard in a typical nalukettu is called anakanam. Each community has its distinct courtyard
style. However, some common characters prevail. The dimension of a courtyard is generally small
and varies from 1.8 m to 5 m span. It has an outer wall and tends to have at least one hall opened.
Most courtyard houses have a walled wooden hall containing a raised granary in the middle (ara),
semi basement storage pedestal or nilavara for storing utensils and farming tools, and one or two
supporting rooms (kalavara) next to ara (Dili, 2010).

Figure STYLEREF 1 \s 1 SEQ Figure \* ARABIC \s 1 3 A courtyard, with verandas leading to other internal spaces
.

Source: Massiwa
Verandas

The front veranda is used for relaxation in the afternoons, while the rear veranda is used as a work
space and as a space for socialization for women. The verandas along the sides are used for
sleeping, or as storage space. Circulation is defined by the verandas around the courtyard, as the
major rooms are entered into from them. (Indah, 2018).

Granaries

Kerala’s architecture also highlights the Importance of granary design as an important feature in
residential buildings. The raised floor with a hollow space underneath (nilavara), completed with a
small ladder to get into the house hints at an urge to lift the structure off the ground (Indah, 2013).

Spaces for women

Women were considered inferior to men and t were denied entry into the main courtyard, except
for ceremonies such as marriage and death. In houses with one courtyard, rear spaces were added in
proximity to the kitchen. Accesses to worship rooms and to bedrooms were through a rear door.
Additions in the last century show a slow movement towards modern ideologies. Houses with more
than one courtyard were built and expanded without much constraint as the ritual rules applied only
to the primary courtyard (Dili, 2010).

Construction Materials

The common building materials used for vernacular construction in Kerala are mud, laterite and
granite stone blocks, lime mortar, wood, bamboo, clay roofing tile and coconut palm leaves. Though
granite is a strong and durable building material, due to its limited availability, the use of granite is
limited to the foundation of buildings.

Laterite, found in shallow depths, is the most commonly used building material in Kerala. It is easily
cut, dressed and used as building blocks. It is strong and durable though exposed to atmospheric air.
Laterite blocks are usually bonded in lime mortar - the classic binding material in vernacular
buildings. Lime mortar, improved in its strength and performance by addition of vegetable juices, is
used for plastering walls. The exterior of laterite walls are either exposed or plastered with lime
mortar.

Wood is another building material used for construction in Kerala. A wide variety of species, from
bamboo (Bambusa Oldhamii) to teak (Tectona Grandis) are used. The skilful selection of wood,
perfect joinery, artful assembly and subtle carving for columns, walls and roof frames are the unique
characteristics of Kerala’s residential architecture. Mud is also used in many forms in traditional
buildings which include mud walling, bricks, clay tiles (both roofing and flooring), mud mortar for
laterite masonry and as filler for timber floors. Locally available mud is usually kneaded and treated
with natural admixtures. Coconut leaves and palm leaves are also used for thatching the roofs and
for protecting walls at times (Dili, 2010).

Construction Detail

Most of the nalukettu are located amidst a large expanse of land which is thickly vegetated. This
allows for unobstructed air flow, and the vegetation cover helps in reducing insolation.

The establishment of unique features of the Kerala style of architecture are largely due to the
peculiar features of the production materials obtained locally, and ingenious mechanisms developed
to cope with prevalent climatic conditions. The free flow of air and the pressure systems are vital in
the designing of a dwelling.

Walls

Exposed laterite bricks with a rough surface are used for external walls, as they possess self-shading
properties, thus reducing radiation impact. The thermal mass of external wall is increased by using
double layer of laterite masonry with a cavity in between filled with sand, insulating the interiors.
This helps reduce cooling loads. Facades are painted with white or light colors to minimize heat
absorption (Thirumaran et al., 2017)

Abundant use of red bricks and wood in construction of walls are an essential feature of native
architecture. On analyzing the architectural measurements of the ancient Nalukettu and Ettukettu, it
os seen that the Southern wall of the Thekkinippura and Western wall of the Vadakkinippura are 24
centimetres thicker than the rest of the walls. It was mainly to withstand the strong and intense rays
of sun from the South and the rays of sun in evening from the West. (Anon., 1993).

Fenestrations

In a typical nalukettu dwelling, cross ventilation is enhanced by provision of fenestrations on

opposite walls. Various kinds of fenestrations are used - ranging from typical two paned casement
windows to wooden jaalis. Wooden jaalis are arranged meticulously to cut off glare and bring in
diffused light and improve air movement. These small perforations increase the velocity of air which
passes through them and enhance mild breeze from outside, allowing deeper penetration of air
essential for thermal comfort in the warm and humid climate of Kerala. This also reduces solar heat
gain as direct radiation is cut down. Side lighting and top lighting strategies are used to bring in
daylight and in most of cases, the North has more number of fenestrations to bring in soft light
(Thirumaran et al., 2017).

Source: Archi eStudio

Buildings usually have large number of openings in the form of windows and ventilators. Provision of
open or semi-enclosed spaces also give ample scope for air movement. Another remarkable feature
in the Kerala vernacular architecture is the provision of open gables (mughappu) in the roof and the
provision of wooden jalli (azhi) in the external walls at appropriate positions. Windows, which are
traditionally named to denote cow's eye, elephant's eye, etc., show an orientation towards small-
sized windows (Anon., 1993).

Roofs

High pitched roofs and large roof overhangs are used to maximize pressure difference which in turn
maximize air flow. The pitched roof is provided with a roof beneath, creating a large air space that
functions as an attic providing an insulating layer. This air space is provided with openings, creating
an escape route for hot air transferred down the tiled roof. Due to this the second roof remains
cooler than the pitched roof above. These steeped roofs and deep eaves aid rainwater discharge, as
heavy rains are an important concern in the region (Thirumaran et al., 2017)

Roofs are commonly furnished with wooden gable ends. The roof structure demonstrates
sophisticated vertical series of horizontal wall plates systems on which arrays of rafters rest. It has a
common principle in giving importance to annular beams system (arudham). A small-span hall design
may require a single annular wall-plate (uttaram) to support rafters, while wider span halls a
supporting brackets in trapezoidal trusses bracketed by serial lateral poles on which rafters are
arranged. As a whole, it yields a 3-dimensional roof space-truss that is a recollection of the
archetype of bamboo constructions and binding treatments using coconut ropes. The wooden
structure and construction of Kerala’s roof looks like a structural advancement of primordial bamboo
craftsmanship into sophisticated prefabricated wooden construction (Indah, 2013).
Measures for thermal insulation

Thermal insulation in buildings is achieved by means of effective use of materials and techniques
used in the construction of walls and roofs. The external walls of vernacular buildings are generally
very thick (up to a maximum of 750 mm) with a double layer of laterite masonry with a gap filled
with fine sand. This makes the external wall highly insulative. In order to achieve thermal insulation,
a wooden ceiling (tattu) is also provided beneath the roof. This provides a large air space at the attic
which acts as an insulation layer against the conduction of external heat through the roof.

This air space is well ventilated with openings (jalli) on both sides to permit maximum cross
ventilation. The breathing space between the clay tiles, that are used for roofing, further helps in
ventilating the under side of the roof reducing the temperature. Thermal insulation can have reverse
effect, when for some reason the indoor temperature is even higher than outdoor and the buildings
insulation obstructs a quick heat loss [20]. In Kerala vernacular architecture, the above problem is
overcome with the constant air exchange between outdoor and indoor with the help of openings
provided on the external wall (Dili, 2010).