Thotti Mane
Thotti Mane
Thotti Mane
Bengaluru | Karnataka
Alkove-Design
Pune | Maharashtra
Contents
Project Details......................................................................................................................... 9
Key Contributors..................................................................................................................... 9
Introduction............................................................................................................................ 11
Site Context........................................................................................................................... 12
Design Philosophy................................................................................................................15
Entrance.................................................................................................................................. 16
Threshold................................................................................................................................20
Ground Floor Plan*..............................................................................................................24
East Elevation*.....................................................................................................................26
Courtyard................................................................................................................................29
Living Room........................................................................................................................... 33
Section A-A’*.......................................................................................................................... 34
Kitchen and Dining.............................................................................................................. 39
South Elevation*..................................................................................................................42
Master Bedroom...................................................................................................................44
Section C-C’............................................................................................................................46
Staircase..................................................................................................................................51
First Floor Plan*.................................................................................................................... 52
Son’s Bedroom and Family room ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 55
West Elevation*.................................................................................................................... 56
Alfresco Spaces.....................................................................................................................58
North Elevation*...................................................................................................................62
Section B-B’*.........................................................................................................................66
Conclusion..............................................................................................................................69
Unique Material Applications ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 72
Product Specifications........................................................................................................ 72
Documentation Credits.......................................................................................................73
4 * Drawings for reference on this page. 5
Foreword
An early morning walk in this
silent Bengaluru neighbourhood is
rewarding for most, courtesy of a
home present right at the junction
that wholeheartedly expresses its
traditional values through its layered
facade. It stands out from all the
template modern homes one expects
to see in that lane.
The home’s essence is not limited
merely to its first impression. It
is about the journey inside. One
enters the home through layers of
threshold spaces before their eyes
fall on the stunning central courtyard
that gives the home its name.
While the following day was spent
understanding the architect’s design
process and the clients’ living habits,
we realised that all our interactions
and activities happened in and
around the courtyard. Such was the
power of this space, skilfully fit into a
compact plot yet taking the spotlight.
Jaidev Tripathy
www.buildofy.com Thotti Mane | Alkove-Design
Project Details
Location Bengaluru, Karnataka
Number of Bedrooms 3
Key Contributors
Structural Consultant Sreenivasulu
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Introduction
The term ‘Thotti Mane’ in Kannada refers to a courtyard house. This residence
wrapped around the courtyard takes cues from the Chettinad-style home. The
traditional elements throughout the home, coexist in perfect harmony. Being the
owner’s personal construction project, the abode feels like a warm embrace.
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60’
40’
Site Context
Nestled in a tranquil residential neighbourhood in the south of Bengaluru is a 2,400 sq. ft. traditional Chettinad-style home. It sits amidst
homes on an east-facing plot in a suburb called Banashankari, adjacent to a sloping road surrounded by trees. The orientation of the home
allows ample natural light throughout its expanse. Empty plots on the north and south sides of the site ensure the privacy of the abode.
The orientation facilitates effortless zoning and placement of the spaces inside.
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Design Philosophy
The design concept of this home revolves around the courtyard, known as ‘Thotti’ in Kanada. With
living spaces wrapped around it, the courtyard envelopes the family and guests in its warm embrace.
This space creates a sense of translucency where conversations flow. Referencing elements from
Chettinad-style homes, this abode pays homage to the traditional roots of the family.
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Entrance
The entrance of the home is split into two levels due to the natural slope of the site. A tall compound wall
guards the residents’ privacy from the road. Upon arrival, one has a choice of three doors. Two doors provide
vehicular access at different levels, while one, adorned with a carved neem wooden design, is for pedestrians.
The pedestrian door flaunts small brass figurines that exude a traditional aesthetic. The gable-roofed canopy
with carved facia plate is the commencement of the warm embrace of this abode.
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Threshold
As one walks through the gable-roofed canopy, they are greeted by a Tulsi Vrindavan at the center, exuding a
divine aura. As you continue towards the entry, the Sadarahalli columns and steps, come into focus. Covered
parking is accommodated on both sides of the steps. The green and yellow Athangudi tiles lounged across the
porch are the prelude to the home. A carved wooden door greets you at the entry of the home, and in the foyer
lies a fusion of Athangudi tiles and Jaisalmer stone flooring.
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East Elevation
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Courtyard
The pièce de résistance of the home was the very first concept drawn on the paper. Located at the entry, the
courtyard has become a little oasis within the house. Illuminated by a skylight, the courtyard spills light into
every corner of the residence. Wooden columns, adorned with carved wooden brackets, frame the courtyard.
A reclaimed teak wood swing with brass accents imbues a traditional touch to the space. Using a fusion of
Jaisalmer stone and Athangudi tiles, bordered with green marble, this space takes cues from nature.
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Living Room
The living room, tucked away beyond the courtyard, features wooden accents, perpetuating the
theme of the home. The in-situ reclaimed wood furniture features a minimal design with printed
upholstery, providing a contrast to the Jaisalmer flooring. Small slit windows framed with wood
are reminiscent of the traditional-style homes. A wooden strip running around the beam is an effort
to maintain the home’s character. The feature wall clads with brick to resemble the exterior CSEB
façade continues the earthy tone of the home.
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Section A-A’
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South Elevation
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Master Bedroom
The white-washed master bedroom in the western corner belongs to the owners. It features wooden
accents and an in-situ four-poster wooden bed. The wooden wardrobe with louvered fronts adds a
touch of traditionalism to the home. These louvers obstruct the permeation dust into the wardrobe.
The feature wall behind the T.V. unit is a cool grey addition to the otherwise warm tones of the room.
The attached bathroom features Sadar Ali flooring and printed tile-clad walls, further perpetuating
the traditional aesthetic of the home.
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Section C-C’
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Staircase
Serving as a focal point, the multifunctional staircase on the ground floor adds a touch of grandeur and serves
as a pause point for family members. Its design encourages social interaction and also offers a visual connection
with the courtyard, enriching the overall experience. The lift core connects all four floors seamlessly, enhancing
accessibility and convenience for every family member.
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West Elevation
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Alfresco Spaces
A set of French doors leads onto a covered balcony that offers views of the road and the surrounding trees. The covered
balcony flaunts green and yellow Athangudi tiles, which are a staple for the house’s traditional character and reflect the hues
of the surroundings. An open-to-sky terrace conceals the car park underneath it. It gives a sense of openness where residents
bond over a cup of steaming coffee.
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North Elevation
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Section B-B’
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Conclusion
This humble abode was the owner’s “baby” as he oversaw the construction process. The integration
of wood and its fusion with Athangudi tiles and white-washed walls transformed the home into a
warm embrace for its residents. The simplicity of the furniture and the translucent nature of the
home create an aura that charms its residents.
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Material Palette
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Ply Archidply
Louvered Wardrobe Shutters Teak Wood
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