This post is second in my series of traditional Indian homes.Courtyard houses have always fascinated me and my dream home will definitely have one.I get mesmerized by the pillars,morning light rays that falls through and lying down on a grandpa style chair and looking at the stars is just magical.
via Mantra Veppathur
via Indiatoday
The history and origin of these houses date all the way back to Indus Valley civilzation and are influenced by Vaastu Shastra which state that all spaces emerge from a single point that is the centre of the house.Courtyard form the core of the house with rooms built around it.
via Google
Chettinad,Nalukettu,Haveli,Wada - though it is recognized by various aliases depending on the region in India but courtyard house are just a form of architecture,a solution to the cultural (joint family system) and climatic conditions (Utilisation of natural light,cross ventilation).But different styles exist in different parts of India and in this post I will focus on some of them.
With terracota tiles,redoxide floors and wooden pillars, the courtyard houses found in SouthIndia are warm and charming.
via Pinterest
In Tamilnadu,Chettinad houses are built on palatial scales and consisted of a series of central courtyards.Chettinad houses have beautifully carved pillars made of Burmese teak or stone.
Nalukettu houses of Kerala strictly adhere to Vaasthu Shastra and has one courtyard (Nalukettu), two courtyards (ettukeetu) or 4 courtyards (Pathinarukettu).Usually thulasi plant (holy basil) is placed in the centre of the courtyard.
via KarmaKerala
Haveli of Rajasthan are the status symbols of the owner and often you find beautiful frescoes and carvings as well as Meenakari (Enamel work) and glass works in the courtyard.You can find a water fountain in the centre.Generally they have two courtyards - the outer one for men and the inner one for women.They usually extend to two or three storeys.
Source : Living Life
via Cityshor
via Leprince Haveli
Even now there are courtyard houses but in a modern format.There are side courtyards,wrap around courtyards,partially exposed courtyards but whatever be the style courtyards are the space to enjoy sun,rain,stars and dream with a cup of coffee.
Yes I love coffee and make sure to add them in my posts as well.
via CrossfitKyle
