Located in the heart of Kochi, this structure invites visitors through a vibrant red entrance. Rooted in a simple yet profound design philosophy, the structure is elevated to seamlessly integrate natural elements with its interiors, creating a harmonious coexistence with the surroundings. A key focus of the design was to optimise the views of the existing site.

The building features a thoughtful interplay of levels, offering a dynamic spatial experience. The ground floor includes a verandah beside a koi pond, along with washrooms and a utility area. Transitioning upward, the second and final level serves as a brainstorming pod, with a clerestory window that channels natural light into the primary workspace, enhancing functionality and creativity.

Koshish House, Kochi, sustainability, architectural design, material reuse, terracotta tiles, steel repurposing, creative design, elevated structure, dynamic spatial experience, natural light, local collaboration, eco-friendly construction, modern architecture

Koshy P Koshy, Principal Architect of Koshish, mentions the project’s philosophy of lifting the structure to harmonise with nature while sustainably repurposing steel sourced from a dilapidated textile factory to form the elements.

Historical Revival
The journey begins along a narrow mud road, leading to a vibrant red entrance that sets the tone for the project’s harmonious blend with nature. The design philosophy revolves around elevating the structure to integrate natural elements seamlessly with the interiors. Open planning, shading strategies, and structural orientation that account for micro-climate changes, along with the reuse and recycling of materials, were key considerations to achieve this vision. Minimising harsh east-west orientation and optimising the site’s views further underscore the thoughtful design approach.

Koshish House, Kochi, sustainability, architectural design, material reuse, terracotta tiles, steel repurposing, creative design, elevated structure, dynamic spatial experience, natural light, local collaboration, eco-friendly construction, modern architecture
Supported by eight steel columns crafted from restored L-angle sections, the elevated structure features pivoted windows and terracotta-tile-clad walls that blur the boundary between indoor and outdoor spaces. Advocating for sustainable architecture, the project repurposes materials like terracotta tiles, steel, and windows salvaged from a dilapidated textile factory 8 km away. Additional tiles, sourced from four locations, now form the pathway, walls, and roof, celebrating the timeless significance of terracotta amidst Kerala’s shift to contemporary materials.

Elevated Elegance
The terracotta tiles were used extensively throughout the project, from the walls and pathways to planters, a bonfire space, and the compound wall. Dismissing conventional material combinations, this simple yet powerful philosophy played a key role in the design. Old pivoted windows were reclaimed and integrated, enhancing natural light and ventilation.

Koshish House, Kochi, sustainability, architectural design, material reuse, terracotta tiles, steel repurposing, creative design, elevated structure, dynamic spatial experience, natural light, local collaboration, eco-friendly construction, modern architectureWorking closely with local fabricators and masons, the design process emphasised hands-on collaboration and decisions based on the availability and condition of materials. Reusable materials, many of which are over 80-100 years old, were prioritised. In addition to the terracotta tiles, old and rusted steel structures were reclaimed, contributing to a more sustainable construction approach. A total of 14,858 terracotta tiles, 79 glass tiles, and 8 tonne of structural steel were used, of which 6.5 tonne were recycled.

On ascending the stairs, one arrives at the collaborative space, finished with terrazzo flooring and encircling a triple-height atrium that binds each level together. Windows at regular intervals, a cantilevered balcony along the north face, and glazing reaching the apex on the east side provide expansive views while ensuring ample ventilation and natural light. Each level serves its own distinct purpose, with the ground floor housing a verandah by a koi pond, washrooms, and utility spaces, while the second level functions as a brainstorming pod with a clerestory window that directs light towards the primary workspace. The design fosters an interplay of levels, creating a dynamic spatial experience as inhabitants transition through varying heights.

Koshish House, Kochi, sustainability, architectural design, material reuse, terracotta tiles, steel repurposing, creative design, elevated structure, dynamic spatial experience, natural light, local collaboration, eco-friendly construction, modern architectureWith a strong focus on sustainable practices and creating an environment indistinguishable from the comforts of home, the space breathes life into both its inhabitants and the timeless architecture. The careful reuse of materials, such as terracotta tiles and structural steel, alongside thoughtful design principles, ensures a seamless blend of functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability.

Fact File
Project Name: Koshish House, Kochi
Client: Koshy
Architect & Project Management: Koshish
Fabricator: Jude/Anas
Tonnage: 7 tonne
Status: Completed
Completion Year: 2021

Koshish House, Kochi, sustainability, architectural design, material reuse, terracotta tiles, steel repurposing, creative design, elevated structure, dynamic spatial experience, natural light, local collaboration, eco-friendly construction, modern architecture

Quote
“When Life has given us so many chances, why shouldn’t we also give materials a second chance? We worked with steel that was 80 to 90 years old, repurposed from structures built during the British era, without relying on specific vendors or specialised engineers. Using whatever materials were available, my team and I collaborated with workers, reshaping and elevating the structure to achieve a visually appealing design. The challenge was to reuse old materials while ensuring functionality and even the drawings were created after the building was completed. It was a first for everyone involved, but it highlighted the incredible potential of reusing resources and making them work beautifully in modern applications.”
Koshy P Koshy, Principal Architect, Koshish