Dyuthi – A Courtyard Home for a Small Family
Dyuthi, meaning “light,” is a humble yet thoughtful residence designed for Sudheesh and his family on a 5-cent plot tightly bound by neighboring houses. To ensure privacy and openness within this context, an inward-looking plan was chosen, organized around a small central courtyard that becomes the soul of the home.
| Location | Kolazhy, Thrissur, Kerala |
| Year of Completion | 2024 |
| Built-up Area | 1,560 Sq.Ft. |
The residence, with a built-up area of 1560 sq.ft, accommodates three bedrooms, a living area, dining, kitchen, and a compact study space, fulfilling the functional needs of a small family while keeping the design simple and efficient. The courtyard ensures daylight and ventilation reach all parts of the house, lending an experience of openness despite the compact footprint.
The inward-facing design also subtly separates the private and common areas while retaining visual and spatial connections, making the home intimate yet breathable.
Materials and finishes were chosen to suit a tight budget, focusing on affordability, durability, and ease of maintenance. The palette is kept warm and modest, echoing vernacular sensibilities while responding to the tropical climate. The design minimizes dependence on artificial cooling by maximizing cross-ventilation and thermal comfort.
Dyuthi demonstrates that even within constraints of budget, size, and site context, architecture can create a home that is functional, sustainable, and filled with light and life.