Cost Effective Eco Friendly House in Wayanad

Charles and his family are about to complete their dream home in Meppadi, Wayanad—a beautiful blend of tradition and sustainability. Designed by Santilal of Costford Triprayar Center, Thrissur, this 3200 sq. ft. house perfectly exemplifies a cost-effective eco-friendly home. Built on a 50-cent plot with a budget of 60 lakhs, it showcases Kerala’s traditional architecture while prioritizing sustainability and resource efficiency.

The house stands out with its traditional Kerala-style elevation, which not only reflects the region’s cultural heritage but also incorporates modern design elements that reduce construction costs. The simple yet elegant structure features a double-height living room, where colorful glass panels add vibrancy to the interiors. This fusion of traditional and contemporary design ensures that the house remains timeless in its aesthetic appeal while being functional.

Thoughtful Space Allocation

The ground floor features a sitting room, living area, dining space, courtyard, kitchen, work area, prayer room, two bedrooms, and a bathroom. Each space is designed for maximum utility without sacrificing comfort. The compact kitchen is especially noteworthy, making maintenance hassle-free. Upstairs, the upper living area leads to one bedroom, a multi-utility space (ideal for reading or leisure), and an open terrace that offers beautiful views of the surrounding Wayanad landscape. The house is a perfect example of how space can be efficiently used to meet a family’s needs.

Key Factors that Lower Construction Costs

The house embraces several strategies to keep construction costs under control without compromising on quality or aesthetics. The use of concrete is kept to a minimum, with the walls built using locally sourced cut stone. Instead of traditional plaster, the walls were coated with a mix of soil, jaggery, and lime. This ancient method not only strengthens the walls but also eliminates the need for expensive painting, further reducing costs.

Additionally, most of the materials used in the construction were recycled, emphasizing the eco-friendly aspect of the house. From the wall materials to the flooring, sustainability was a priority at every stage of the build.

 Natural Plaster and Mud Paint for an Earthy Aesthetic

The walls, plastered with mud, jaggery, and lime, offer a natural, earthy tone to the house, giving it an authentic rustic feel while reducing heat inside the home. This method of plastering creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere that merges seamlessly with the surrounding environment. Instead of using chemical-based paints, the walls were finished with a mixture of mud and lime, which enhances the home’s eco-friendly credentials and helps maintain a cool indoor climate.

 Athangudi Tiles for Flooring

One of the standout features of the home is the use of Athangudi tiles for the flooring. These handmade tiles, known for their durability and vibrant patterns, lend a unique charm to the interiors. Their ability to regulate indoor temperatures naturally makes them an ideal choice for homes in warmer climates like Wayanad. Apart from being cost-effective, these tiles are also easy to maintain, adding to the overall efficiency of the house.

 Double-Height Living Area with Multi-Colored Glass

The living area, with its double-height ceiling, is one of the most visually striking spaces in the house. The high ceiling not only enhances ventilation but also creates a sense of openness. The wall adorned with multi-colored glass further elevates the room’s aesthetic, making it a focal point of the interior design. The natural light streaming through these glass panels fills the living room with a kaleidoscope of colors, creating a tranquil yet vibrant atmosphere.

 Sustainability at the Core

What makes this house truly remarkable is its focus on sustainability. Every material and design element was chosen with the environment in mind. By using recycled materials and minimizing concrete, the carbon footprint of the house was significantly reduced. The earthy tones of the mud-plastered walls, the recycled materials, and the locally sourced stones all contribute to the home’s eco-friendliness.

GROUND FLOOR PLAN

FIRST FLOOR PLAN

PROJECT FACTS

• Total Area :  3200 sq ft
• Plot Size : 50 cents
• Owner :  Charles

• Location : Meppadi,Wayanad

• Total Budget : 60 lakh
• Constructed  by : Santilal , Costford Triprayar Center, Thrissur
  Contact: +919495667290, +919072701996.

Charles’ family home in Wayanad is more than just a living space; it is a testament to how sustainable living can be cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing. By opting for natural materials, traditional techniques, and smart design, they have created a house that is not only eco-friendly but also beautiful, comfortable, and affordable. This project highlights how cost-effective, eco-friendly houses can be achieved without sacrificing style or comfort, making it a model for future sustainable homes in Kerala. visit our youtube channel Homepictures.