An architect couple in Kerala is redefining sustainable living by constructing eco-friendly homes using locally sourced materials. Their innovative approach uses soil and earth to create homes that are not only environmentally responsible but also economically viable.
Based in Pattambi, Kerala, the couple – Guruprasad Rane and Manasi Puliyappatta – stick to traditional and eco-friendly building techniques to craft structures that blend seamlessly with nature. Their homes, characterised by earthen walls and natural finishes, offer a refreshing alternative to energy-intensive construction practices.
What sets these homes apart is their natural thermal regulation. The earthen walls ensure that the interiors remain cool during scorching summers and warm in chilly winters, providing year-round comfort without relying heavily on air conditioning or heating systems. This sustainable approach not only reduces the homes’ carbon footprint but also contributes to significant energy savings.
“We believe in building homes that respect the environment and are in harmony with nature. We sensitise our clients about the importance of sustainable living. By using soil and earth, materials that are abundant and renewable, we can minimise the ecological impact of construction while also making homes more affordable,” Guruprasad told “Open Digest“.
The houses constructed by their firm Bhoomija Creations are also 10 to 15 percent cheaper than conventional ones, making sustainability accessible to a broader audience. The cost-effectiveness comes from reducing reliance on industrially manufactured materials and employing techniques like rammed earth and clay. Their homes often feature open courtyards, natural lighting, and ventilation, enhancing both liveability and design.
One of their flagship residential projects is in Pattambi, where they constructed a 2,000 sqft mud house for a client. The one-storied house was constructed on 10 cents of land in a traditional Kerala architectural design using the cob method, mixing mud, straw, lime, and water to build the walls. Several other natural materials like rice husk and jaggery were also used in the mixture as stabilizers and for better bonding and pest control. “We also used sand and stones from the property for constructing the house,” Guruprasad said.
