Tamil Nadu houses are known for their distinct designs, intricate details, and attention to balance. It is believed that Tamil Nadu architecture tradition is a combination of Buddhist and Hindu buildings. The defining characteristics of Tamil Nadu house designs are the presence of four different independent masonry walls connected by a common roof. This type of design is usually called Nalukettu, which is from the Malayalam word that means quadrangle. Traditional Tamil Nadu House Designs | Nalukettu | Vastu | Palladian | Julus | Gajapokharam | Courtyard | Plan Vasthu | Cottage | Mansion
Nalukettu is a style of architecture from South India, mostly seen in the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The name is derived from the Malayalam word for 'four-cornered', in reference to its traditional four-sided layout surrounding a central courtyard, and the presence of four independent masonry walls rising to the central roof. Nalukettu architecture emphasizes balance and symmetry, incorporating traditional Hindu elements such as stone pillars, carved doorways, and ornate adornment. Nalukettu
Vastu is an ancient Indian architecture system based on the principles of Hinduism and the Vedas. It is considered to be an important part of the traditional Tamil Nadu house designs. The main focus of Vastu is balance and harmony in the design and use of the space. There are several elements to consider when it comes to Vastu, such as direction of the building, location of windows and doors, number of floors, location of staircase, etc. All these elements are believed to have an effect on the people in the house, and according to Vastu, should be taken into consideration. Vastu
The Palladian style of architecture is named after the 16th-century Italian architect Andrea Palladio. It is characterized by the use of classical principles and elements, such as symmetrical facades, columnar arcades, and pedimented entrances. A Palladian building typically incorporates elements of both classical Greek and Roman architecture, although the two styles are blended in a unique way. Although it is not traditionally associated with Tamil Nadu, the Palladian style can be adapted to suit the local climate and culture. Palladian
Julus is an ancient Tamil architecture style that is believed to have originated in the sixth century BC. This style is characterized by large central courtyards surrounded by veranda-style walkways and rooms. The walls of Julus buildings are usually made of mud or brick, and the roof is made of carved wooden beams and thatched palm fronds. The style is often referred to as a 'temple palace', as it was used to house gods and goddesses. It is said that Julus-style buildings are associated with the Agamas, which are a collection of sacred Hindu texts.Julus
Gajapokharam is a traditional Tamil architecture style that is heavily influenced by Palladian design. The defining elements of Gajapokharam are its long, rectangular buildings and its use of multi-storey pillared entrances. The walls are usually constructed of mud and are often painted white or beige. This style is associated with royal residences and places of worship, and was popularized by the Nayakas, a powerful ruling dynasty in late medieval South India.Gajapokharam
Gajapokharam
Courtyards are an important part of traditional Tamil Nadu house designs. These walled, private spaces are usually open to the sky and allow for air circulation within the house. The courtyard typically acts as a buffer between the main living space and the exterior. Courtyards also function as spaces for relaxation, cooking, drying clothes, and other leisure activities. Courtyard
Plan Vasthu is an important part of traditional Tamil architecture and is based on Hindu architectural principles. The plan of a house is designed according to these principles to bring peace and prosperity to the occupants. This involves considerations of the direction the house is built in, the materials used, the elements in the building, the number of storeys, etc. All these factors must be taken into account when designing a house according to the Vasthu plan. Plan Vasthu
Cottages are a type of traditional Tamil Nadu house that is usually built on a small plot of land. These houses tend to be simple and rectangular in shape, with large windows, and a thatched or tiled roof. Cottages are typically built using local materials, such as mud or adobe bricks, and are designed to be energy-efficient. They are often used as guest houses or vacation homes. Cottage
Mansions are large, luxurious houses typically built on large plots of land. These traditional Tamil Nadu houses are made of brick or stone and feature ornate details, such as stone carvings, balconies, and elaborately decorated doorways. Mansions often feature multiple storeys and multiple wings, and some even have gardens, ponds, and swimming pools. Mansion