Kerala-life and thoughts

Kerala House design and Construction-Your queries and my reply

2012-02-13T02:06:00.001-08:00

CLEARANCE FOR PANCHAYATH ROAD FOR COMPUND WALL

Anonymous has left a comment on my blog entry Building Permit seeking to know clearance required to be left while building compound wall facing Panchayath Road.

Leaving such comments in blogs will not get you a reply.Any one can write to my email id seeking replies for any matter related to design and construction of buildings.I will reply back.Write to this email id

vhthomas@viruvelil.com

My reply

Before building compound wall for your property facing a public road,you have to apply in writing to the local authority and obtain their sanction.The local authority will specify clearance to be left from road while constructing compound wall facing public road.

LAND AND HOUSE IN PALGHAT

QUOTE

Dear sir,

I am looking for a plot in Palakkad. We are currently in Bangalore and we are trying to buy a land and built a house, preferably located within 5kms from Palakkad town.Our budget is maximum 25 lakhs and with a plot size of minimum 5 cents. We would not be able to be there during house construction. Would you be able to help us on this regard.

Amrutha

My reply

It will not be possible for us to locate land for you at Palghat as we are based at Cochin.But if you locate a plot,we can do legal , technical,Vasthu evaluation of the plot and also assist you in documentation process of registration of plot.

Thereafter we can design your house and build it also at Palghat with professional care and guidance.

BEST POSSIBLE SIZE OF PLOT

QUOTE

Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "Replies to your queries#Architecture":

I am an NRI Mechanical Engineer like to build a 2500-2800 sq. ft. house in Cochin and on the look out for 8 cents of land (which is my budget) and identified few plots.
Appreciate if you could let me know the best possible size of plot in 8 cents to have a good architect designed house
I understand that the house can be designed to suite the plot but prefer to buy a plot where in design can be flexible.

My reply

Especially in a place like Cochin you may not get a plot of sizes of your choice.Apart from dimensions of all four sides of plot,land level,Vasthu considerations and positions of road nearby also matters.So you have no other choice other than designing your villa suited to your plot.For our services contact me on email

vhthomas@viruvelil.com

DESIGN AND BUILD HOUSE IN TRIVANDRUM

QUOTE

Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "Answers to your queries #Architecture":
I would like to build a Home around 2000-2200 Sq. ft. in Trivandrum in 5 cents, Would you please recommend me a Builder & Designer and what would be the cost per Sq. Ft ? need your assistance.

My reply

Here again I could not reply to this person directly as he has not given his email id.I have about 35 blogs.Opening each of these and replying in time to such comments posted in that blog itself is not practically possible.Hence all enquiries/comments/requests for advice has to be sent to my email id

vhthomas@viruvelil.com

I cannot suggest or recommend any builder/contractor or designer in any area.All I can do is do what I can do.In your case,I can visit your site in Trivandrum,study site conditions,your requirements and then design your house.Obtaining a proper most suited professional design is the most important and critical part of building a house.Once you have the best Basic Plan for your house from a qualified experienced Architect with lots of exposure in designing and building houses,you will save lakhs of rupees and the available space in your plot will be utilised in the best possible manner.

Some people insist on having large size rooms without any relation to its utility aspect.Rooms will have to be larger only to the extent required.More than the physical size of rooms,how doors,windows and space is utilised by the Architect is more important.

As a lay man you will never know what size of rooms will be better.Most of the people have ego problems while dealing with a designer of the house.They think and talk as if what they think is the right dimensions or right requirements for the house! Even before developing your requirements for the house you need to have professional guidance.Talk with your Architect openly and frankly.Allow him to guide you properly rather than thinking that whatever you think or understand is only right.

After the design is finalised we can either build your house directly in Trivandrum or act as consultants if you can get good contractors willing to work as per our design and instructions.

Design and Construction of house in Kerala:Replies to your queries

2012-02-09T22:00:00.001-08:00

CONSTRUCTION OF HOUSE WITHIN A PREFIXED AMOUNT

QUOTE

Dear Sir,

Good day to you

Cost figure which you put up on is not at all affordable to me.

My maximum budget 20-24 Lakhs.

So in that budget i need a house. And i intend to start by 1st of July, 2012 and looks to complete in 31.05.2012.

Ranjith O S

My reply

Cost of construction of house to be built is not in the hands or control of me or any body else.Nobody can predict cost increases in hundreds of materials to be used for construction and increases in labour charges.

If some body says I will build a house only if some body can guarantee cost within certain amount is like saying you will buy rice after one and a half years only if the price per Kg is say Rs.23/- No shop is going to supply you rice at price decided by you.You have to pay ruling price of the day.

Similarly for house construction,you have to pay ruling price of day for all inputs that go in to construction.

All that you can do is to bring down your requirements for the house to bring down cost component if you have no way of finding finance required to meet your needs for the house

There can be lot of cost reduction and possibility of getting better utility for every bit of built up area if you are willing to have and pay for professional design and guidance through out construction.

Are you willing to go ahead or you want to wait for a non professional contractor to say false promise about cost of building house to start construction?

RATES FOR TILE LAYING

QUOTE

Dear Sir, Good Morning

It’s really nice to hear from you, always am watching yours articles and suggestions. Sir, my house construction was going on now flooring stage – please advise me the reasonable rate of Verified tiles & Granite fixing (fixing charge)per square meter.

Mahesh Kumar.T.K

Coca-Cola

Abu Dhabi – UAE

My reply

If I tell some rates for fixing flooring material,will your contractor agree to do work for that rate?

Rates of labour charges can be compared only if the way of fixing tiles/flooring material is similar,work man ship is similar and if availability of such labour in all areas are similar.But all these vary from place to place, from one contractor to another.

Generally all construction workers and contractors try to cheat owner of a building to be constructed mainly because he has practically no knowledge or very little(mostly wrong) knowledge on building construction.Unless you have a professional to advice and guide you throughout building construction,workers and contractors will take you for a ride.Their objective is simply to make more money..In that process of making money they do not consider anything as wrong.Quality of your construction and structural stability of your building will be irreparably damaged in their quest for making money.All that they will do to make you feel confident is to talk nicely and advice you wrongly to meet their objective of making more money.

After structure work of building is completed,most of house building owners think that most important parts of construction is over and you simply need some workers to complete balance work.You need continuous guidance and assistance of a qualified experienced professional to get things right at this stage.

RIVER SAND OR M SAND?

QUOTE

Respected Thomas Sir,
I would like to construct a house in Sreekariyam in Trivandrum,
keeping construction costs as low as possible. Sir, do we have to use
wire cut bricks or are ordinary bricks strong enough for double storey
buildings. I came across the term" Manufactured Sand" what is
manufactured sand. Is it better than river sand or vice versa? Also
how much does it cost? Some people say river sand now available is not
pure river sand instead sea sand is mixed with some other sand and
thus we may be cheated. How can a layman like me know the purity of
river sand that I purchase? If we do not get river sand are there any
other alternatives for a)concrete work b) plastering work. Any other
tips to reduce Electrical and plumbing cost? What do you think of
Anthenkudi tiles for low cost flooring?
Anoop

My reply

I have commented on difference between River sand and M sand several times earlier.But still I continue to get queries on this.

Manufactured sand ( M sand ) is made at metal crushers using rock pieces.If properly crushed to size of river sand and cleaned to remove quarry dust,M sand is better compared to river sand for concreting and brick work.

For plastering till such time packaged plastering sand is available in market,we have to use lower size river sand only.

Trouble with river sand is that it has several impurities like mud, and even chemicals discharged from factories near rivers in it.Some of these chemicals present in river sand can cause deterioration of building parts over a period of time.So technically it is better to use manufactured sand for concrete and brick work

I have not heard about “Anthenkudi” tiles and hence cannot comment on it

CAN I USE PLAN OF HOUSE OF MY FRIEND?

QUOTE

I myself Manjumol. from Oman. I am working as a cardiologist in a hospital.

Sir, I came to know about you from website and i am very happy to read all your article about House and Vasthu.

My plot is located in Ernakulum, Kolenchery, Pattimattam. I am planning a make a home in my plot. I like my friend house and she has given me the drawing also.

If you can check this drawing as per vasthu and please give some suggestion about it. Kindly send me your service cost also. My house is faced to North.

My reply

Thank you for your nice words on my work.

Plan sent by you have several architectural and Vasthu defects.Some of them which came to my notice at first checking for GF Plan are the following:

Vasthu defects

1.For a North Facing house Kitchen should be at Agni Konam(South East).Bed room here will be dangerous.

2.Other Bed room at North East is also not auspicious as North East is Eesaanaknoam ideal for Pooja

3.Kitchen at South West is bad.South West is ideal space for Master bed

Architectural defects

1.Living room has very little space for Sitting.TV is kept in a Home Theatre and not in middle of sitting room as per present trend

2.Light at Living room and Dining is not adequate and U shaped old style stair case blocks whatever little light that can come to Dining space.Living,Dining in single hall creates problem for privacy.

3.Toilets are too narrow with 140 and 150 cm width.Present trend is to have spacious toilets

4.Rectangular shape plan will not give opportunity for a good Elevation and better ventilation and lighting

5.Dress in Master Bed is a dark area with no access to light

It is better to go for a design with modern architecture features combined with traditional Kerala Architecture.We can design a house suited to your needs,budget,Vasthu considerations of the plot.

Kerala House design and Construction:Replies to your queries

2012-02-08T03:22:00.001-08:00

QUOTE

Yovan has left a new comment on your post "Kerala House Construction-Answers to your queries":

Wonderful blog & good post.Its really helpful for me, awaiting for more new post. Keep Blogging!Yovan

My reply

Thanks for your appreciation

House and land for Rs.10 lakhs

QUOTE

Sir,

I am Sundaram from KSA want 2 build a new home(2000 sq. ft.,4bhk,gf+1,some free space for children play/garden) at Palakkad,what are the basic to select a plot,how much land require for this specification,I am planning to get a home loan,initially I can invest 10Lakh,also Vasthu must,please give me an idea about this modern architecture mix with Kerala designs.what will be the construction cost per sq. ft. at present condition.

S.Meenakshi sundaram,

Saudi Aramco Total Refinery & Petrochemicals,

My reply

For a 4 bed Villa,2000 sft plinth area will be a bit less.But if you are willing to be satisfied with dimensions of rooms within that plinth area it is fine.I am not aware of land price in Palghat.But present construction cost which is going up fast everyday will demand a minimum of Rs.30 lakhs if you start construction immediately.

There is no such thing as standard square feet cost of construction of a building.You can know about square feet cost of construction of your house only after you complete construction and definitely not before you start construction even though non professional contractors may compete with each other to promise you lower sft rate.This is a promise to be broken after you get in to his clutches after starting construction.Such sft rate contractors do not bother about proper architectural,structural design of the house and reducing material and labour involved is the easiest method they will adopt to reduce their cost in addition to demanding unending extras from you.

Most probably only house you construct in your life time should have proper architectural,structural engineering and Vasthu compliance and hence you should never attempt to build your house without professional design and continuous professional guidance through out construction.

FLOORING MATERIAL AND PLASTIC DOORS

QUOTE

Hello Thomas Sir,

My house construction is going on and presently the plastering is going on which will be completed in next1-2 weeks. So am looking for good and cheap flooring options. I saw your website 'Kerala House Construction, and found it very useful. First of all thanks a lot for the info provided in the website.

I have taken a home loan and so my budget is minimal. So am not looking for high cost materials like wood/granites for flooring.

I was planning for the entire flooring with vitrified tiles. But then read about clay tiles and their pros and more importantly their cheapness.Can you please suggest if going for complete floor tiling with clay tiles would be a good idea or a combination of clay+vitrified tiles is fine.

Can you please suggest me good and average costly clay tiles and vitrified tiles presently available in market, their price and brand. Also which would be suitable for a particular area in house like clay tile/vitrified for a particular room. .

Also for bathroom/Toilet, plastic door frame+door or wooden one is good?

Please provide your valuable inputs for the above queries.

Sreekumar S (Kalesh)

Kollam

My reply

Thanks for your appreciation

Flooring materials like Marble and Granite are now going out of trend and use of these materials for flooring is practically getting out.One reason is availability of more attractive floor tiles with better finish and more comfortable for movement.You can go for different varieties of tiles of Nitco or Johnson.These companies have display show rooms in Cochin from where you can select flooring material suited to your taste and budget.

If you can afford Granite flooring,you can as well go for teak wood wooden flooring.Cost wise both will work out same.

Clay tile flooring will be cheaper and more environment friendly.It will be healthier for your body also like wooden flooring.But clay tiles for floor are now getting difficult to procure due to shortage of clay.

Plastic doors are good if your toilet size is small.Just like designing a house,you should now get professional advice in planning Toilet size and how each space in toilet is properly planned for better utility.All well planned toilet can have wooden door frame and shutter as water will not get splashed on to it.In cases where water is likely to fall continuously on door ,you can go for plastic shutter.For Frame either use wood or concrete.

RELATIVE ENGINEER LOOKING AFTER CONSTRUCTION

QUOTE

Hello Sir,

My cousin brother (Civil engineer) is the taking care of the house construction. Even i would be just browsing and exploring all these different options. Doing that i saw your blog and so thought of asking your opinion, since getting an expert advice keeps us at peace & confidence. Saw your projects in FB and they are truly very good sir.

Sree

My reply

Just because your relative who is a Civil Engineer is taking care of your house construction do not mean that he should know everything about house construction.

Even after building more than 200 houses directly in different parts of Kerala,designing and acting as consultant for thousands of buildings in Kerala and outside,I still do not know many things about house design and construction.With each new project I face new problems and thus I continue my study.

There is no harm in getting another expert visiting your site just because your Engineer relative is involved.Such an assessment of work done and work to be planned will help you as well as your relative Engineer.Ultimate objective is to get maximum utility for your hard earned money.

WHEN TO START CONSTRUCTION?

QUOTE

Dear Sir,

Good day to you,

I have gone through the blog and read some of the replies by you, although i have impressed and likely to ask the following

I need to built a house @ 10cents (land already have in possession) Ground Floor+1st floor

I expect to make a minimum of 2000sqft all and my budget is minimum RS.20lakhs and Maximum is Rs.22Lakhs.

Kindly advise and awaiting your swift reply,

Ranjith O S

Ettumanoor (Now in IRAQ)

My reply

You have Rs.20 lakhs with you.Start construction related activities with that money in hand..First and foremost,get a good design of the house.There is no point in waiting for entire money you think of to reach you to start construction.Every person who built house has started with whatever money they had.If you are sure of not getting any more funds through loan or otherwise,tell your Architect frankly about the money you can really manage to organise.

But the funny part is that in their anxiety to save money for building,client never tells about actual financial condition to the Architect.At least that is my experience.Client tells a low figure but do not compromise on his needs for house and facility as if the Architect or contractor has a magic wand to stop every day going up input costs.

Start construction fast before price increases kill your house dreams!

M SAND OR RIVER SAND,SOLID CONCRE BLOCK OR RED BRICKS

QUOTE

Sir,
I am Anish
I have doubts about my house construction.
1) Is Rock sand(parappodi) is better for wall(construction)?
or we use river sand+parappodi?
some of my friends told me that it(parappodi) will leads to crack in future(virichchil).
2)for plastering shall we use MSAND?
or river sand is better?
3)which is better to use river sand or parapodi+M sand mix for concrete in roof?
4)for building walls solid brick is enough or need to use natural brick(ISHTIKA)?

My reply

River sand was used regularly for construction work in Kerala earlier due to abundant availability.Now it is difficult to get and very costly also.

There is no harm in using M sand which is manufactured sand crushed to size of river sand.As it do not have any impurities usually present in river sand,it is better for use for concreting and brick work provided it is not quarry dust but manufactured sand itself.Quarry dust can only be used for filling and not for brick work or concreting.

For plastering it is better to use river sand with lower size or plaster sand available in bags specifically manufactured and sold

Red bricks are now again very costly and hence there is no other option but to go for solid concrete block instead of red bricks.Ensure that you use good quality solid blocks.

Kerala House Construction-Answers to your queries

2012-02-01T17:33:00.001-08:00

QUOTE

Dear Sir,

My house is an old house( one part is more than 80 years and other part is around 45 years). Some rooms are very small, dark and not useful. I don't think it is made by planning. Now my father is planning to renovate it. I want my house to be with the same old structure but inside should be modified with rooms and other facilities. I want to know whether that is possible or not.If possible how much it will cost.

Ancy Varghese

Chalakudy

My reply

Unless structural stability of the building is checked by a professional,it cannot be ascertained whether the building is worth renovating.Normally modification/remodeling work on an existing building will cost more than building a new house as work involved cannot be properly quantified or estimated.

House construction is an Engineering work involving hundreds of materials and different types of labour with almost daily increase in their cost.So no one can exactly predict cost of construction which may get completed within one or more year from commencement of work.Even the Engineering Estimate prepared by an Engineer after carefully calculating work involved for each item of work can also give only an approximate indication of cost.

All these talk of some fixed “square feet cost” is simply a lie used by non professional contractors to lure ignorant client.After the work starts client can not do anything else other than pay the contractor never ending extras demanded by him.With ever increasing input costs,contractor also cannot do anything else.

Better get the work done with qualified experienced professional guidance so that you will not be taken for a ride by the contractor whose only objective is maximising his profit even compromising structural stability of the building.

Constructing Building on land described as Nilam

QUOTE

Hi Sir,

We are planning to construct a house in Trivandrum in the property which we inherited. The problem is that it was a paddy field before 30-40 years and is remained as barren land since i know. In the documents it is written as 'Nilam' . Is it possible to construct a house in this land. If so, what should we do first and whom should be contacted.

please give me advice in this area, as we don't know anything detailed in this aspect.

Lakshmi

My reply

First of all check up with concerned building Inspector for your land area( described by Survey No)with Corporation of Trivandrum or concerned local authority as the case may be by showing the copy of Deed whether there will be any objection for obtaining permit for Building Construction

If there is objection,you can apply to a concerned committee comprising of Agricultural officer,Tahsildar etc. for waiving objection on account of land being described as paddy field.The committee will visit plot and after ascertaining the present status of land,will give you sanction to build house..

Trying for Cost reduction while building house

QUOTE

Dear Mr. Thomas,
I am Benny Joseph working in Saudi Arabia. Just now I started to make a home for me. The area is 2350 SFT.As soon as started work everybody says it will cost me around 4,000,000.My budget is for 2000000 only. I planned for a two story building with 4 bed room,living,family living,kitchen and work area. In the first floor we planned for two bed room and one living room plus one balcony.Altogether it will be 950 sft only.I already decided to put concrete windows and door frames except front and back doors to save money. If I do just stress roof on first floor without concreting will it help to reduce construction cost.
Do you services available in Northern Kerala.I am from Kannur.I am planning to come for a three months vacation in August. Can you do the construction if that case what will be your terms. Basement is already made.

Waiting an early reply.

With warm regards,

My reply

See,this is the problem.While building a house you should not listen to “everybody” They will put you in to real trouble.They have nothing to loose in giving “advices”

What you need is qualified experienced professional advice.Even for reducing construction cost your Architect can give a cost effective design and advise you on how to get best value for your limited funds while building house

Our services are available for any one anywhere in the world.For locations where it is practically impossible for us to take up construction directly,we can act as designers and consultants during progress of work guiding you and your workers to get maximum value for your money

#Kerala House Construction-Replies to client queries

2012-01-30T04:48:00.001-08:00

House cum clinic for Homeopath doctor

QUOTE

Hello Mr. Thomas,

I am a homoeopath from Trivandrum. I would like to build a house cum clinic in Kazhakuttom, Trivandrum. I was quite impressed by your way in which you present your strategy and i am a person who does my system also in a different way. So, coming to the point, my plot is situated near the NH and MC road but there is only a small panchayath road to the plot only 50 meters from NH at present. So i intend to keep about half of the space of my 6.9 cents plot for the approach of vehicles and their parking. Hope you got the idea. Actually, i was working out my plan myself in this pattern in the floor planner site. My family comprises of me,my wife and 2 children and also my mother. So, i intend to have only one bedroom cum bath, a clinic room and a waiting room, small mini kitchen and a drawing cum dining on the first floor( you can suggest me changes regarding anything) and plans to have 2 bedrooms cum bathroom and a common space for ironing and washing and 2 open terraces in the first floor. I intend to have one bedroom cum bath alone in the 3rd floor and leave the rest as open terrace. I am attaching the sketch of the property also along with this. I have a budget of 20 lakhs for the same. I am expecting a detailed answer from your part regarding the same.

Dr.Esmail

My reply

You want so many features.But do not want to spend more than Rs.20 lakhs?

Does the Architect or building contractor has a magic wand with him? House or building construction is a bit of complicated affair.First and most important step is to get a good design for the building.All that you can do in that case is to provide complete details on your dreams,needs and plot details to the Architect.If you think you can on your own prepare plan of the building,it is wrong.It require professional training,software tools like Auto CAD and a wealth of resources obtained by Architect through years of training,practice,experiments and observations.

When you get the best possible design from the best professional you can get,during construction, cost of all inputs will keep going up and labour will get costlier and difficult to get.These are realities of our land.If you think a contractor will suffer losses just to keep his promise of a certain amount quotation in tact,you are highly mistaken.No one is going to loose money to give you a building at promised low cost.Unless he get comfortable profit,contractor will walk away if quality compromises even at risk of structural stability of building do not give him profit.So get professional assistance in both design and implementation of the building project.

Position of house in a plot

QUOTE

Thanks Most Valuable Articles , a question that In a plot which corner is the best and second option ?

My reply

It is for the Architect to decide location of house in a plot after careful study of site and environment conditions during a Site visit prior to design of the building.

Going by Vasthu considerations alone,it will be better if the house can be closer to North eastern part of the plot

Locating house plot,arranging documentation of purchase of land ,design and building house

QUOTE

Hi Thomas,

I stumbled upon your blog whilst searching for information on building permits for Kerala. You had mentioned that there are some restrictions on building near rivers and lakes. Could I trouble you to elaborate on what these restrictions might be as I am in the process of looking for a waterfront plot on which to construct a house.

Furthermore, do you know of any reputable companies who could provide me with valuation services to ensure I'm not paying more for a plot than I need to?

And the last thing, could you please send me more information on the type of services you offer?

Thank you in advance and I look forward to hearing from you.

Regards and best wishes,
Richard.

My reply

Yes.This is what we can do unlike others:A comprehensive package of locating land for building your house,arranging legal ,technical evaluation,land registration, documentation and follow up.Finally designing and building your house.

We have done this for a Delhi based Director of a MNC who wanted a retirement house in a peaceful Kerala village even though he has no close relative to take care of anything in Kerala.

Details on type of services we do are available at our website

www.viruvelil.com

More info on buying land in Kerala is available at “Architectural Guidance “ link of our website

www.keralaarchitecture.com

Cost effective Plan

QUOTE

Dear Sir,

Good Afternoon.

Hope you are fine!

I'm working in Dubai, and am planning to construct a 4 BHK house at my native place in Alleppey next year. I want to construct a house with prayer, study & storeroom.

Can you please suggest me a cost effective plan.

Please note I have 22 cents of land for use.

Prompt response is appreciated.

John Daniel

My reply

Just any plan I have in my computer will not be suitable for you.Architect will have to visit your plot,take measurements,study features of land and also study your requirements in detail.

A plan suited for you and suited to your budget limitations if any will have to be specifically designed for you.Then with that plan as base for discussions,a series of discussions with you may lead to revisions in the plan and finally we arrive at a plan specifically designed for you.

You need such a plan and not just any plan from me,from anybody else or from any websites, magazines offering free plans

Interlock bricks

QUOTE

Dear Mr. Thomas,
Apropos your opinion on Interlocking Stabilized Soil Block (ISSB), I would like to add a bit on the technology. In recent times, the technology is gaining immense popularity in many parts of the world including Asia, Latin America, US, Europe etc. Giving due respect to your experience in the field of construction and architecture, let me disagree with your comment that ISSB is suitable for compound walls. The reasons for the disagreement are many. Nevertheless, the primary argument is that during my several years of professional experience in Europe especially Denmark and Germany, I have seen aplenty durable buildings constructed with interlock technology. Secondly, your argument on Kerala's climate is rather blunt as I have seen interlock brick houses without outside plaster in Brazil, a country with humid tropical climate and rains similar to Kerala. Only thing of my concern is the quality of the interlock bricks produced in Kerala. Interlock bricks are durable and comparable even without plastering provided good quality clay and cement in right proportion and compression is used in production

Sreejith Aravindakshan (Denmark)

My reply

I was talking about interlock bricks manufactured in Kerala.In Kerala and even in other parts of India we specialise,in finding out how bad any product can be made but still appear to be good for eyes of customer.Inferior quality manufacturing,cheating people in any manner are considered to be credit worthy capabilities in our country.People take pride in doing so!

# Kerala Architecture- Replies to client queries

2012-01-29T05:48:00.001-08:00

House Construction in Kerala without any one to look after work progress

QUOTE

My name is Swaroop and i am working as third Engineer . I have been reading your blogs and it had been very informative.

Myself is planning to build a house in Calicut around June 2011. i have been having problem in purchasing land until now, but that problem will be resolved by June 2012.

The problem is that i don't have anyone to run after all the constructional matters as there is only my mother and sister from my side. i had consulted one construction company , who said their consultancy fee will be 225 Rs per sq. ft. and the construction charges extra that will come around 2000 Rs per sq. ft., so total for a 2800 sq. ft. house its coming around 62.5 lacs for construction only which seems very expensive for me.

I was planning to construct a modern architect designed house around 2800 sq. ft., in around 8 cents of land. i can spend around 50 lakhs on the house, majority will be from bank loan from SBI for construction excluding the land charges.

please advice whether i should go ahead with the same construction company or whether you have any acquaintance in Calicut or whether you and your team can help me directly

Hoping you will clear my doubts

My reply

Each construction company has it’s own policies,terms and conditions for providing architectural and construction services and hence there is no point in me commenting on merits or demerits of a particular construction company.

Most important factor to be considered is that you should go for qualified and experienced professional in designing and acting as consultant during construction of your house.Better qualifications and treasure of experience in designing and building houses of the consultant will definitely reflect in every aspect of your house construction.With each new building construction,an expert encounters new problems and technology advances bring new materials and construction methods.

Initial drawing called Plan of the house is the most important document as far as your house construction is concerned.Some people have a feeling that Plan of the house prepared by any one will be the same.So they opt for those who offer to give a plan free of charges or very low charges.By saving those thousands,they land up in a mess by loosing lakhs of rupees in construction ,avoid better utilisation of limited space for construction and better facilities for the house which only an expert can provide.

We offer professional services for both design and construction of house anywhere in Kerala and outside also.Our charges are much less than the usual but we never offer any service free of charges as all “free offers” come with hidden costs and traps which will finally extract money from you and exploit you.By the time you realise it,it will be too late.

I still cant understand why people are unwilling to pay for design and consultancy services of expert professionals in house design and construction..Instead they get trapped by free offers of non professional contractors who knows how expertly an ignorant client can be exploited to their advantage.

House design and cost estimate by mail

QUOTE

Hello Sir,

I am planning to build a double story 2000 sq. ft. house with 4 bed rooms and 3/5 bath rooms in Kalamassery, Cochin. Can you send me some house designs and cost estimate?

Roy

My reply

I get quite a lot of mails like this.It shows how ignorant our people are about house design and construction and a complex process of designing and building a house which can be the most important investment/financial decision in the life of a Keralite is treated so casually!

A house has to be designed suited to your plot measurements,surroundings,your requirements,budget limitations if any,Architectural,structural engineering aspects,Vasthu factors,Kerala Building rules etc.A house design prepared for somebody else suited to his land features and conditions will not fit in to your plot and requirements.

Architect will have to study your site conditions and your requirements closely before he can design a house exactly suited to your site and requirements.Only after initial design is finalised,you can know exact sft plinth area of the house.

Cost can be calculated using Engineering Estimate methods only by a qualified Engineer and not by any body else.Whatever cost indications you get even from an expert is only a cost indication.In Kerala conditions cost of hundreds of different type of materials used and different kind of labour used will be going up continuously and no one can exactly predict cost of construction of your house which may get completed after an year or more of commencement of work.

Constructing a house with Rs.5 lakhs

QUOTE

Dear Sir,

I have a land of 10 cents in Vaikom and I want to build a house there. I have only 5 lakh Rupees in my hand and I do not to want to take any loan for it. So can you advice me, if I can build a house (not modern one) in my above cost. Your early reply will be grateful to you.

Gireesh

My reply

Constructing a house with Rs.5 lakhs or even lesser amount is possible.But without knowing site conditions and what exactly you need for the house,how can an Architect tell you whether it is possible to construct a house for you with Rs.5 lakhs?

An Architect can advise you on ways to reduce cost.But you should be willing to accept his suggestions and your requirements for the house will have to be toned down to meet your budget constraints.But without sufficient data an expert cannot give any comment or advice.

Problem with roof tile laying

QUOTE

Hi Mr Thomas

Appreciate if you could help me with my query and doubts.

I am making a house in Perintalmanna and I am stuck with the roof tiles.We initially used the old tiles of our house by washing,painting and making it look new as per our elders in the family.But now when we have put on the roof its not equally getting adjusted and so we feel it has got us a huge loss as we had bought some new tiles also to fill up the area.

I went through your blog and found it interesting.Can you please provide me with the details as to where I can get really good tiles at a affordable price as per the new trend….whether clay tile or the glazed one.

Ms. Noorain Noushad

My Reply

There are several clay tile manufacturers in Kerala and you will have to select roof tiles in consultation with your Architect.Problem encountered by you during laying can be understood by me or by any other professional only after physically studying the situation at site and hence I cannot comment on it with the information provided by you.

This problem faced by you or similar problems faced by any one during house construction/remodeling is mainly due to reluctance of people in availing professional service/advice/consultation and due to listening to non professional contractors/workers.

Consultation with an expert if avoided will land you in problems which cannot be solved that easily during construction process.

Housing Loan

QUOTE

Hi Thomas,

i have collect your id from Kerala architecture..thanks for your initiative in this regard...

am started thinking about a new home..we have land for the concerned plan...problem is obviously money..this letter is particularly for knowing some information about loan ...project amount not more than 10 lac(can u tell me minimum cost?)...my monthly salary is 30k and by hand 1lac...guide me...

Thanks for your time and consideration

Sijo

My Reply

As we are authorised agents for M/s HDFC limited for providing Housing loan,we can assist you in obtaining financial assistance for house construction.Please call me on 9388701702.

To build house for parents and do not know what to do

QUOTE

Hi sir,

My parents want to build a house in a village in Kollam dist...Its a new plot i have no idea how it looks and all other demographic...Do you visit the place and give suggestions and plans too? Just wondering how you can help us...

Looking for a 2 storey building with total of 4 bedrooms and other rooms.

how much is your charges and any other formalities we have to do?

can you please email me....Then i can talk to my parents.

Anita joseph

My reply

We can design and build your house from concept to finish with professional care and assistance.

During construction,we can either construct directly with our workers or can act as consultants if you have own work force by providing complete drawings,instructions to workers and occasional site visits.

We will provide professional care,guidance and assistance in making your dream house a reality.

Reluctance to pay fees to Consultant

QUOTE

Thanks for your follow up.
However, I am still evaluating the builders and have not yet finalised.

Only because you have asked for a reason on why I did not peruse your offer further, I must say that what put me off was the fact that you require a fee to enable you to quote for the work. I have not come across a firm that is selling a product requiring a fee to tender for a project. I am looking for someone more approachable, as for something as personal as a house it would have to be more than a 'take it or leave it' attitude.

Thanks anyway.

regards

David

My reply

With my experience in dealing with thousands of clients over many years,I can tell you that very few have a clear picture of how to go about building a house.

Most important part of building a house is to get the most appropriate Basic Plan for the house suited to your plot,environment,requirements and budget restrictions if any.
Even after designing thousands of houses and directly building more than 200 houses in different parts of Kerala,I am still learning new aspects of house design and construction with new problems encountered every day.Qualifications and hands on experience make a lot of difference in designing a house.Most appropriate design you may get from the best Architect you can find can make a lot of difference not only in getting you best features and facilities but in saving lakhs of your rupees.

Compared to the saving you get ,the initial Site visit fee and Basic Plan fee are almost negligible.If you consider spending those meager amount as waste of money,I will have to say that you are being penny wise and pound foolish.

I do not travel to a site spending my time and money in the hope of getting business without any payment from client.Engineering Estimate prepared after finalising Design is a detailed item wise costing and not a simple quotation.That requires careful working by quantity costing Engineers and it will be useful for you both for planning your fund flow and also with your bankers for house loan processing.Naturally we charge very little for that also.

If some body does all these for free,his services will not be of best quality and he may be facing problem of no or less business.Even with our procedures of charging for our technical services,we still have lot of business except from people like you who are not aware of what they loose in trying to save few thousands.

Anyway thank you for sharing your concern.Such feed back help us to understand our clientele better as I am also a qualified and experienced marketing professional

#Mullaperiyar dam facing imminent destruction

2011-11-23T05:09:00.001-08:00

A dam built 116 years back when structural engineering was not developed to the level we have today cannot be expected to last for ever.This every one who can think without any bias can easily understand.

Tamil Nadu is getting water from this dam for a very little cost for years together from Kerala.They use it for irrigation and for producing Electricity through Hydro Electric power station which is the cheapest method of producing Electricity.Tamil Nadu politicians are simply not bothered about weak structure of Mullaperiyar dam which has outlived its existence nearly 60 years back.

What if the dam collapses?Water stored in dam will flow to down stream Kerala at very high speed damaging property on banks of river Periyar and killing all living beings on its path.It is estimated that nearly 30 lakh Keralites will die within very little time as the water breaking out from the dam will run down very fast damaging every thing on its way.

Engineer who built this dam 116 years back has predicted that it will last safely for 50 years.So for the balance years it is remaining in tact as a miracle.Such miracles do not go on for ever.Already cracks are developed on the storage walls of dam.Bonding used for building old Mullaperiyar dam is only lime.Both laterite and lime get deteriorated over a period of time and now it is at the most precarious condition.

A catastrophe can happen any moment killing millions of Keralites and Tamil Nadu which now enjoys cheap power and water for irrigation from Mullaperiyar can possibly watch death of millions of Keralites and their source of cheap power and water for irrigation can end for ever without any Malayalee doing anything.

So an alternate modern dam at the down stream of present Mullaperiyar dam is essential to save lives and property of Keralites and to ensure continuous supply of water to Tamil Nadu.

While the dam is facing imminent destruction Tamil Nadu politicians are demanding loudly to raise water level in the dam to speed up destruction of the dam!Why should they shut their eyes and ears to reality? I simply cannot understand this.

Kerala Govt,Kerala politicians and People in general in Kerala are not aware of the death threat on nearly half of its population.Politicians are simply conducting all party meetings,pilgrimage To Delhi to chit chat with rulers there and waiting patiently for ever for court verdicts on cases going on in the matter for decades.

But an Engineering structure having outlived its date of safe existence will not wait for permission from Governments,courts to break down and cause havoc unheard of or unimagined by any one ever.An earth quake of even minor nature can push the destruction earlier.

Are we all waiting silently for the largest, deadliest catastrophe ever faced by Kerala and India coolly? Will at least ordinary people of Kerala rise up and force these non moving rulers to act fast and ensure that an alternate latest technology dam replaces Mullaperiyar dam fast? Will they force rulers to take whatever precautions ,safeguards to avoid danger while the new dam work is in progress? I have practically no hope and I wait for the death threat like some one sentenced to death!

Answers to your queries #Architecture

2011-09-29T18:25:00.001-07:00

Position of Kitchen as per Vasthu

Quote

sir,

i found some comments regarding vasthu on your site

that kitchen should be in east south corner

is there any problem in it being in north

because if u read kanippayurs interview he recommends north for kitchen

if you don't mind to look at the rough sketch as attachment

what's your comment

awaiting for your valuable suggestions

and this is a plan i liked and believes best aesthetic for my plot
does it conflict with vasthu

thank you for sharing your knowledge

because i am getting conflicting views regarding vasthu

Girish

My reply

Vasthu is a proper science based on scientific studies done by our forefathers.

Unfortunately that part of Vasthu which explains why certain effects are occurring is lost by not properly documenting the knowledge

What we now know is the effects of Vasthu factors.These are fortunately well documented and is available in books.You do not have to simply follow what some one who claim to know vasthu says.There has to be a logic in what he says..Many people simply believe or accept without any reason whatever some people says.I cannot do anything about it.

North east is Esaanakonam which is ideal location for well,sump tank etc.This area should be lower from other areas for better effect.Esaanakonam is also ideal for Pooja room.Hence this konam should be kept tidy and neat for better prosperity.Kitchen at North East is not good as per Vasthu

South East is Agni konam.Agni konam is the ideal place for Kitchen.If you have a bed room at South east,persons living in that room will have continuous problems and no prosperity.

Your plan is just a few lines drawn by you.While spending lakhs of rupees for building a house,why cant you pay few thousands to get the most appropriate plan by a good Architect? Getting the most appropriate professionally designed plan of the house is the most important part of the building construction.Only an expert knows the implications of a plan.Then why should you pretend to be an expert and loose your own money?

Renovation of existing house

Quote

Dear Sir

This is Thomas from Bahrain. Hope you remember me . i contacted you regarding the renovation of my old house.all my friends are suggesting that renovation cost will be almost same like making a new house.Actually my requirement is 2 Bed room with attached bathroom,hall with dining ,sit out,car park, kitchen, work area in the ground floor and 2 bed room with attach bath room and balcony in the first floor. i would like to know approximately how much it will cost me . the reason i am asking this because i am a normal NRI with limited income.can you can help me in this subject ?at least to finish the structure work .waiting for your reply

Thomas P

Bahrain

My reply

An Architect/Engineer is not an Astrologer

A person qualified and experienced in any branch of Engineering prepare an expected cost statement called Estimate by Engineering calculations with the help of data available

How can I predict cost If you simply say that you require so many rooms?

Whether the existing building is worth modifying or not I can say only after seeing existing building

When you delay construction even by one day,you are making house construction costly as cost of material and labour go up every day in Kerala.Even if you have only Rs.5 lakhs with you today,start with that money.Waiting for entire money to reach you will result in waiting for the house forever.

Comment on my blog post

Quote

Sunder has left a new comment on your post "Desire for lower price for construction":

It is an excellent article by a genuine Architect who understands the fallacy of the insistence of cost per sq. feet concept by the customers. It is an eye-opener really. Thanks a lot.
Sundararajan

My reply

Thank you Sundararajan for your encouraging comments.

Construction of House In two cents of land

Quote

Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "Queries and replies-House Design and construction":

Hello sir,
Is it possible to construct a house within 2 cents of land?

My reply

Cents is only area of the land and it does not give any idea on frontage and depth of plot.If these dimensions are good enough,Construction of house in 2 cents of land is possible.But the design will have to be within the limitations of the plot.

Concrete mixing

Quote

Sir, i saw your website.I understood some details of concrete. I wish
to know about all the details of concrete mixing,proportions, steel
laying and curing.

My residence at Kollam(not coastal area).

Thanking you in anticipation.

Prakash
Kollam

My reply

How can I teach you all those by a blog entry.? I have explained on various aspects of house construction in a simple non technical language in my blogs.To know more about the technology you have to be professionally trained.

Replies to your queries#Architecture

2011-09-11T05:44:00.001-07:00

House with limited Budget

Hello sir, I am Riyas, am planning to build a low cost house on my village(at Trivandrum). so could u please send me a plan for that. my budget should not exceed 10-12 lakhs..
please mail me if possible with

My reply

Have already mailed detailed reply to you.Without understanding your requirements for the house and site conditions,I cannot simply send a plan with a price tag of Rs.12 lakhs.House construction is not that simple as buying something from a shop.

House with Rs.5 lakhs budget

I am Paul , a teacher in Maldives, from Pulpally, Wayanad.

I would like to construct a house in Pulpally. How can you help me? My estimate amount is 5 lakh maximum. Recently I saw a house photo in Malayala Manorama, Veedu, which says the total construction cost is 4.5 lakh.

Can you help me how to do all these things? Please email me details

Paul from Maldives.

My reply

It is possible to build a house costing even less than Rs.5 lakhs.But you cannot have all facilities and features of a costly house.Studying your requirements and site conditions is the starting point of developing the house design

House at Kanyakumari

Hello sir Good day........My name is Ahil. I am a NRI , residing in Australia. My native is mondaikad which is located in kanyakumari district which is 60 kms from Trivandrum. I own a 60 cents square plot. I like to build my dream house in that plot..My requirements are the house should have a majestic look externally, double storied,reception area/sit outs,4 bedrooms,kitchen,hall,an office/study room, car stand for 2 cars, a small mini hall which can be used as a gymnasium....I am looking something around 4000 to 5000 sq. feet...

It would be very helpful and thankful to know whether u undertake projects in my native place and also give me an idea about the cost for building such a house...Is it possible to finish total works including landscaping, interiors within 50 to 60 lacs.......

My reply

Yes.We can design and build your house at Kanyakumari.Mailing you details

Design of House at Hyderabad

Dear Mr. Thomas,

I have come to know about on the Internet. My brother-in-law is in the process of constructing a house in Jubilee Hills, a prime residential Locality in Hyderabad. Land area is 750 sq yds. Family size is :

One Couple

One Married daughter

One studying son- 11 th Std

Mother

Profession : Rly contractor

Probable requirements:

Home office to accommodate 6 people including the Director with wash rooms

Provision for Maid & Driver with families including wash rooms

Puja Room, Dry kitchen with informal dining& wet kitchen, Breakfast corner, utilities, wash area

Formal Dining, Living, Home Gym, Home Theatre, Bar/ Entertainment / library area+ powder rooms for relevant areas

One Master Bedroom with attached bath ( Shower, Toilet, wash Basins), walking closets + 3 more bedrooms with attached baths, Lift for the house. Open balconies , Terraces ,greenery, Water bodies must.

You can plan an office , Maids+drivers accommodation, 3-4 cars parking , below the ground level.

Ground floor: Puja, Kitchens, Dining, Master bedroom + Bedroom for Mother on the ground floor

1 st floor: Remaining things can be planned.

House to be as per vasthu.

I would like to discuss with you . Pl mail me your Hand No and your convenient time to discuss . Once I receive communication from you I shall send you the Plots Plan along with dimensions . I am accessible via Videoconference. I can send you the exclusive link and we can get connected and discuss in detail.

Look forward to your response.

Best regards

Ashok R Vantair

CEO & MD

CEXO International

America,Canada, Australia & India

My reply

I can design the house and provide detailed drawings and act as consultant during the execution of work including occasional visit to site

Selecting plot for buying land

Your blog http://kerala-architects.blogspot.com/ is very useful especially for people like us who have no idea about design, construction etc. I sincerely appreciate your efforts.

I am really surprised to see the professionalism of your office and appreciate it. Thanks for the reply. Last few days I am in your web reading all the queries and replied. I hope i will meet some one soon who used your services.

I am from Palakkad. We have a plan to buy a plot there mostly this month. As the price cross lakhs we can afford to buy 5 to 10 cents only. Kindly suggest me what all I have to keep in mind when I select a plot. What kind of plot we have to opt if we have to spare 5 cents aside when we construct a house in 10 cents of land. Shall we opt for a paddy field if the location is good? I heard filling can affect the budget if we opt such land. Our plan is build a simple but elegant home within our limited budget.

Shameed

My reply

Just log in to our website,

www.keralaarchitecture.com

Click on architectural guidance.You will get all details.Before you finalise plot,it will be better if you can call me or somebody equally qualified and experienced to check the plot and its suitability for house construction

HOUSE IN USA

Dear Mr. Thomas:

I happened upon your blog in a search for split-face concrete block architects.

I wish to construct a very small, 22 feet by 30 feet "castle keep" home in Missouri, USA from split-face concrete block. (Please see attached photos for the general idea).

The roof would be a simple colored metal steep shed roof--only visible from the back of the house lot, though its incline would be inexpensive to construct
as a design and it would repel rain and snow easily. Thus, the back wall would be significantly lower to support the lower end of the shed roof.

If you might have time for such a small project, kindly apprise me.

Thank You.

Sincerely,
Paul Cobb
North Dakota,
USA

My reply

I can design your house in USA and provide you with complete architectural/structural drawings and instructions during construction.

To start with we will have to prepare a Basic Plan of the house.For this you have to tell me what all facilities,living spaces you need in the house.Can you also tell me which direction house will be facing?

Once I prepare this Basic Plan that drawing can be a starting point for our discussions

Architecture-queries and replies

2011-09-10T09:34:00.001-07:00

FERROCEMENT CONSTRUCTION

got your mail id from your web site http://kerala-architects.blogspot.com..

I would like to construct my new house with Ferro- Cement technology..Sir, could you please help me to find someone who does this work in Cochin,(North Paravur) area..

Expecting your valuable reply soon

Sreekanth S

My reply

Theoretically yes.Possible.But in Cochin area those who do Ferro cement work take up only septic tank and water tank work.Unless you have workers skilled in doing Ferro cement work,you can not do construction of your house with Ferro cement walls

HOUSE IN CHENNAI

Dear Mr.Thomas,

I live in Chennai and I wish to have a house plan based on vasthu principles. Your blog seems to be quite impressive and contains straight forward views.

I would like to have G +1 plan for my east facing plot. Find enclosed one page pdf document containing sketch of my plot. Preferred dimension of the built up area is depicted on the attached sketch.

Awaiting your reply.

Azhagunambi

My reply

Yes. I can do the design and follow up drawings for execution of the work

Construction methodology

Dear Mr. Thomas,
I am Binu from 'Thottilpalam, 50 km away from Calicut. I am planning to build a house suitable for a middle class family. Two years before I had purchased 22 cent land suitable for constructing a house. This land has road access (for lorry) and it faces towards west. I am searching for a good contractor capable to build a quality house and I wish to maintain quality from foundation to till the finishing. I am working in Qatar as a workshop supervisor in a construction company. I have limited knowledge about building construction and as I have strong desire for building a house, in Qatar also I used to watch the way a building / house is constructing here. Here it is the normal practice that for constructing even a single storey house the foundation is built with reinforced concrete and after that concrete pillars and roof slab on it so that the concrete bricks using for walls will not get the weight of roof slab. But in Kerala, the normal practice is that pillars are minimized in houses and the foundation is constructing with rocks. I would like to know your opinion in this matter.

It would be helpful for me if you could provide your valuable suggestion for constructing a house. If it is possible to construct a house in my area by your firm, please let me know the approximate amount for it.

BINU

My reply

In most of the Kerala landscape,we have laterite or stable soil strata.That is why we prefer to go for less costly Rubble foundation and brick walls which carry weight of roof instead of column beam structure.In places where the soil condition is not that good,even in Kerala we go for pile foundation and column beam structure

VASTHU CLARIFICATION

I have a plan for the house in West direction, designed by an
engineer. The car porch comes at the south west corner partially
projecting to west and partially cut into the south west corner of the
house. A Vasthu consultant told me that it is not vasthu complaint for
the car porch to be there. That vacant portion at kannimoola will
cause lot of trouble for the inhabitants.

I have attached the plan.

Could you please comment on this. Thanks in advance for your valuable
suggestion.

Mathew.

My reply

That is not even a proper plan of the house.It has Vasthu,Architectural and structural Engineering defects.

Some of the defects noted in the plan sent are the following

1.As per Vasthu for a West facing house,car porch and gate should come at North half of the front side of the house.Main door also should come at North side.More towards north better.

2.Kitchen should come at Agni Konam(South east).Bed room at South East will be harmful to those who stay in that room.

3.Master bed room should come at South West.

4.Spiral stair case will be costly,it will take more space and is no more in present day trend.Putting stair case at Front Living room will adversely affect your privacy as every person coming from first floor will have to move inside house visible to guests.

5.Dining space is completely dark.Even living room has lesser light.

6.Dining is too small and work area is too big.

7.As per Vasthu toilet at South east corner and North east corner is harmful

If you want me to re design the plan,please let me know

Construction while working abroad

Hello,

I have a plot in Polaythodu, Kollam which has 23 cents of land.

I wish to make a house similar to the one you have constructed, which was shown on your website a 3 bedroom house.

I am abroad at this moment so could you please tell me if you will be able to construct a house for us?

How you will be able to construct a new house for us whilst we are abroad?

Also, how long will it take, the cost?

GINA HANE

My reply

We can design and build your house in your absence.You will get complete details by email periodically and also you can even see construction going on at your site through a blog specifically for your sites with pictures of work going on periodically posted.

So it will be as good as you are present here in Kerala physically.Being professionals qualified and experienced in the art of building houses,you can get the best at the least cost

Onam and King Mahabali

2011-09-09T01:43:00.001-07:00

Long long back
We had this King called Mahabali
When he was ruling,
there was no sins.
No looting, no cheating
No lies, no killings
No rapes, no beatings
No double standards,
No scheming treachery
No shortage of food
No rich and poor
No sorrows, no pain
No one was afraid of anyone
No one was doubtful about any one
No one was expecting trouble from any one
No locks and safe lockers
No jails and no police
Every one was loving and caring
Every one was helpful
Every one was there when you need help
Every one loved every one
In our land, every year
We still celebrate ten days of festival
remembering those old days of happiness
Dreaming with no reason,
those dreamy days will come back.
Dreaming that our old King Mahabali
Will come back from death
and rule us again
with no looting, cheating
with no lies and killings
with no rapes and beatings
with no shortage of food
with no rich and poor
with no sorrows and pain.
We call those ten days
Onam festival days
Onam days of King Mahabali

#Pranayam-an asset to Malayalam film

2011-09-08T05:39:00.001-07:00

When I saw the posters of two old men chatting with a middle aged lady with Pranayam written in a circle style,all I could guess about the film were these:

1.It must be a story of old style Pranayam of these old style people.So,not worth watching

2.Mohan lal has done many remarkable films.But his recent films have him as Mohan Lal with very little to act but to do sort of posture to present himself as simply a super star.All his super star glories are good for him and actors who live in awe of him.Why a commoner like me go and see his super start”jada” paying ticket charges?

So naturally I was not keen on watching the film even though name of Blessy prompted me to try the film.

Pranayam in the old concept was practically foolish with neither of the partners bothering enough to know each other before tying the knot.So after marriage,when reality stares at them with heat of life burning them differences crop up.A divorce and another marriage,two children in each marriage.Blessy tells all these story mile stones without bothering to convince us on why and what.

Then suddenly after 40 years all actors in the drama meet together and they act together a new drama.Pain of a mother when she finds that her son hate her too much,pain of the first lover when he knows that another man loves and claims his original love as precious in spite of understanding her previous life alien to him,all these are well picturised.

But the story has more lively scenes than that boring scene shown by posters.If only promoters of the film made people aware that this is not a boring film as is made out? But who cares for marketing of film? This film for the first time made me cry.Credit goes to both Anupam Kher and Jayapradha who lived as characters along with Director Blessy.Mohan Lal could not be that impressive and I could notice the superstar showing up disturbing mind of viewer off and on.

A film definitely worth watching and cannot be missed.Malayalam film industry can be proud of this film,# pranayam even though the film is more about relationships than about pranayam

After fasting by Anna Hazare

2011-08-28T02:05:00.001-07:00

Fast of Anna came to an end after 13 days with Anna drinking coconut water and honey offered by two kids less than 5 year old on hearing about a resolution by parliament agreeing to consider framing Lok Pal bill in line with demands made by Anna Hazare.

But this is only a small step forward.The same Rulers have agreed to bring Lok pal bill to control and prevent corruption to end earlier fast of Anna and they in turn brought up a "joke pal bill" just to fool Anna and other fools living in the country excluding those few hundreds of Parliamentarians who it seems have all wisdom of the country concentrated in.

Both ruling and opposition politicians of the country want to have their right to loot in tact.They do not mind talking pro people during elections and win it by hook or crook.

After winning elections they think they are free to do anything for five years.They say during that five years"Parliament is supreme "and people have no right or business to demand anything from them.People have to meekly accept whatever supreme parliament benevolently gives them even if it is a Joke pal bill which can do nothing to catch looters or punish them.They think 120 crores people are like babies who can be happy if you give them some toy to play with when they earnestly do their sacred duty of looting the country and safely keep money looted abroad.

I do not think that this mere resolution of Parliament with thumping of desk will get converted in to an effective Lok Pal bill to put behind bars those who looted country for lakhs of crores of rupees

One senior central minister from Kerala is reported to have told in a meeting that people are agitated against corruption because of bribe they have to pay while trying to get anything done from govt offices.Yes.no body is happy about it.But this huge price rise and struggling to live with money earned by legitimate normal jobs is not caused by small bribes in govt offices.It is the large scale looting by rulers of country which make people agitated and he simply forget to notice it.This shows how foolish they think people are!

Success of Anna should be starting point of greater changes needed including real implementation of Lok pal in it's true spirit and meaning.Govt will again try to fool us with another joke pal bill which is essential for them to continue looting.Unless we make it impossible to loot,these present set of looters will not leave their lucrative business of ruling us.As Anna said nearly 150 of present MPs are notorious criminals.These looters should go to Tihar jail and honest,young patriotic people will come to occupy the space left vacant by looters calling themselves as irreplaceable nethas of the country

Kerala House construction-Queries and replies

2011-08-15T06:13:00.001-07:00

HOUSE AT HYDERABAD

Dear Mr. Thomas

I have seen & read few articles that you have hosted on web. Drawing some inspiration from that, I thought it may be a good idea to share & take your advice on the house that I plan to construct in Hyderabad. Based on that, I am attaching Architect's brief for the Duplex villa that I would like to construct in Hyderabad. I have tried my best to put all what came into my mind & the key requirements for the project. Kindly take care of all these parameters while designing the house. As mentioned in my brief, would like to have a exclusive beautiful house which has a blend of traditional Kerala architecture & Modern style architecture.

Would suggest you to mail me few elevations which showcases Modern Architecture & traditional Kerala architecture, where in I could discuss the same with my family & then give you a creative brief of what we would like you to develop. Layout requirements are detailed in the attached note. Do revert back to me with your terms & the process to take this fwd.
In case you need any further inputs / clarification, please revert back to me (or) call me on my cell

Regards,
Thomas Ninan
Muscat – Oman

My reply

To start with I require details on house you are looking for,your needs ,dreams including your limitations if any.Once I get details on the plot,I can start developing plan for your house.

With the initial design developed we will have to discuss and arrive at a final plan.From there onwards we go systematically to make your dream house a reality.

BUYING A READY BUILT VILLA OR CONSTRUCTION IN KERALA

Dear Thomas,

Hope you are doing good!

I am planning to build a house but I am worried about that! could you please advice me ?
Buying a villa or building a house which is more good? I have plan for buy good second hand house also

my requirements:

2 storey 2000 to 2500 sq. ft..
normal woods for windows and doors
vitrified tiles in main areas
medium quality sanitary high quality electrical wiring and accessories
high quality paints inside and outside

can I get similar villas in the same expense of building a new home?

Sibi George,

My reply

Buying a ready built house is simply foolishness in Kerala conditions due to following reasons:

1.To increase profit ,construction by sellers will naturally be of lowest quality without bothering about following Engineering standards

2.Seller normally sells the house taking much higher profit

3.Your requirements for the house may not suit house available for buying

HOUSE AT CHENNAI

Hi,

I am Tharanitharan from Chennai. I plan to construct a house in Chennai.
Could you please provide me the complete plan of the house for Elevation shown in your blog and this will
give me some idea to proceed further.

Regards
Tharani

My reply

It will be better to design plan of the house suited to your plot rather than taking plan of the house whose Elevation is given in our blog

SLOPING PLOT LEVEL

Dear Thomas Sir,

I read your article on foundation at your blog and liked it. Can u pls answer my doubt..

We have a site of 28X26 meters size. The site is not level and slope is about 5ft from the front portion to back of the site?

Is there any method other than filling the site with soil and putting a retaining wall at the back end boundary??

Idea of giving few steps inside the house is ruled out.

Niyas

My reply

As it is a gradual slope,it can be straightened while doing rubble foundation.That is better and cheaper.At the back end boundary if you do not want a retaining wall,you can leave a slope from foundation level of house to back end of boundary.

HAVING PROBLEM WITH THE DESIGN OF HOUSE

Dear Mr. VH Thomas,

I am S P Manoharan who is working in Indonesia. I want to construct a house in my native place Alleppey. I got the house plan made by my engineer and it is attached herewith. With the normal stair case I can not have attached bath room in the first floor master bed room. The dimensions of room can not be changed as they are all agreed by my Vasthu Namboothiri.

he bottom bath room dimension can be altered. Can you please send me an offer with a wooden (Teak) spiral case so that my dining room area is not much affected. Please send me the drawing incorporated with the staircase to first floor.

S P Manoharan

My reply

Only option is to redesign the house.For that I need to know outer dimensions of the plot(all four sides),directions and position of roads.

Plan prepared by anybody for a particular plot will not be the same.Better qualifications and experience can make a lot of difference

After the design of revised plan,you can show it to your Namboodiri to check Chuttalavu Vasthu which is a practice followed only in Kerala by old Asaris.If you need proper Vasthu compliance,I can do it on my own.

VILLA IN MUMBAI

Hi Thomas

need to know if you can help with house in Mumbai, planning to build a weekend home on the outskirt of Mumbai, river touch plot about 23karea, I have sort of managed to plan the look and feel of the house but not satisfied with the roof of the house.

you based in Kerala and my project is based on the outskirt of Mumbai,don’t know how well it will work, anyhow I am giving you the brief of what I am looking at and also attaching some plan which I have already worked on.

Will you be able to help with the same ?

Rajan Pillai

V.P Leasing

My reply

Why not in Mumbai or for that matter anywhere in the world?

After going through what you have sent to me I would like to comment as follows:

1.It appears that you have purchased a plot in a Villa Project

2.It is not clear whether you are free to design Villa as per your likes by your own Architect or the promoters have their own Architect designing villas to give villas in the project similar appearance.

3.Do you already have a Basic Plan of the villa designed?If so send it to me in pdf format

4.What you have sent me in pdf format is two dimensional Elevation of the Villa which is not impressive or professional looking

5.To start with I can improve upon the plan (if you have one) or design plan of the villa fresh with your requirements/desires for the house as input

6.I need to know outer dimensions of all four sides of the plot and also direction to which house will be facing.Also I need to know where all roads come near the plot

Plan comes first.Elevation comes next.But we can give you a professional Elevation which will have almost photo quality

Now it is your turn to respond

LOW COST HOUSE

Dear Sir,

I am Ajay Nair from Palakkad, Ottapalam, Kerala. I am currently working in Saudi Arabia. I have a plan to relocate from my native village in Palakkad to somewhere else. So I am searching for good ready made homes as well as the possibility to build a home in cheap budget. My budget ranges between 5 lakh-10lakh. I prefer to have a home with one floor where two average sized be rooms with attached bathrooms, a kitchen and a drawing room cum dining hall are available. Some variations can be made from this view. I came to know about a cheaper European style Eco-friendly homes lying between my budget range. I would like to know about that. Also i would like to see the possibility of "temple top" or "taravadu" model homes, but small area. I don't need a wide space also. So please check the possibilities of this and let me know the status whatever may be the answer. You can tell me if it is not possible also. I have attached two snaps along with this mail which I got from one of my friend. It seems good for my concept of "temple top" or "taravadu" model homes.

Waiting for your early reply.

Ajay Nair

My reply

Buying ready built house will not be cheap.In fact it will cost much more than building a new house and you will get a low quality construction as seller is primarily interested in profit only.

Two bed room attached house even with a bit small room sizes will be at least 800 sft if you build in a single floor.With present cost it may cost about Rs.12 lakhs and as you intend to construct in future cost can only go up.If you do not have land,land cost will come in addition.

Plan for a house prepared by any one will not be the same

Quality of design depends to a large extent on the professional training and exposure obtained through experience.

Basic Plan of the house is the most important and critical element of house building

A well designed plan prepared by a qualified professional with experience can save you lakhs of rupees and it can provide you better facilities within your budget.

So simply trying to save few thousands of rupees towards design can put you in to greater trouble which you will be able to understand at least to a lesser extent only after construction of house is over and at that stage you cannot correct it even if you spend any amount of money.

Now you tell me whether you need us to design your house

Cost of construction of your house to be built cannot be predicted by any one.Contractors may tell attractive figures just to get work knowing very well that you cannot do anything other than agreeing to their revised demands after work starts and even on engineering and quality of construction a non professional contractor may do any compromise simply to increase or protect his profit

RENOVATION OF EXISTING HOUSE

Hi Mr. Thomas,

I found your e-mail Id on one of the housing construction blog and would like to understand few things from you.

My parents are thinking of renovating our ancestral home, which is situated in a village near Trichur, Kerala. While I understand the quote greatly vary depending on the type of contractor, the current rate from one of the local contractor is Rs. 1800 per sq.ft. This quote is only for renovation and doesn't include foundational work. As my parents and family do not stay there and have little knowledge about the current construction cost,your input/suggestion will be valuable. What is the general range of construction cost per.sq. ft. for renovation or for a new construction. Honestly, I don't want my parents to be fooled by anyone.

Thank you so much!! Looking forward to hear from you.

Ranjini

My reply

Getting quotation from contractors and fixing up lowest bidder is not going to get you quality professional construction of house with proper guidance and assistance to achieve the best without some one pilfering your money.For that you require not a contractor but professionals like us

Elevation for 3000 sft 4 Bed house at Thoppumpady,Cochin

2011-08-04T02:23:00.001-07:00

Three dimensional Elevation for Four bed attached house at Thoppumpady,Cochin for NRI

Those who are interested in getting plan and other details for the house,write to

vhthomas@viruvelil.com

Replies to queries-House construction

2011-07-31T09:02:00.001-07:00

A PLAN FOR HOUSE

Query

Dear Thomas,

I have gone through some of your blogs and thought of sending u an email.

We are planning to build a one storey Kerala house with verandahs with 3 bedroom and 2 attached and 1 common bathroom kitchen and a hall in 16 cent of land in our village,

our budget is around 12 to 15 lakhs. Please help me with your valuable suggestion

on its possibility. if u could just sketch a rough plan it will be more helpful.

Thanks a lot.

Meenu

My reply

You have not even told where you intend to construct house.16 cents of land simply gives an idea on area of land.For a house to be planned I need to know how much road frontage plot has,where is the road,directions,terrain of land and much more

Plan of the house is specifically designed to suit your requirements,budget,site measurements and site conditions.Any plan made for house for any one will not simply suit you.Three bed room house in single story may have an area of about 1300 to 1500 sft with usual common facilities.Even with present cost of construction,it will not be possible to complete such a house within Rs.15 lakhs.The more you delay construction,more will be the cost

I have sent detailed mail on what all you should know and do to start constructing a house to you

Wooden flooring

What is your opinion about laminate wood flooring?

(Through blog comment)

My reply

Wooden flooring is not costly compared to granite flooring.It is more environment friendly.You can comfortably sleep on the floor and walk without having to worry about negative effects of walking on artificial flooring material.But you will have to keep the floor neat without rubbing it with wet cloth.Wet cloth will damage wood in the long run

Licensee certifying for submission drawings to local authority

you said that architects, licensed engineers or super visors can approve a plan. can you please mention who all include in this category

(Through Blog comment)

My reply

For obtaining Building permit/approved plan from local authority in Kerala,you have to submit application and submission drawings as per rules duly filled and counter signed by a Licensed Engineer/Architect/supervisor having registration of license with Dept. of Urban affairs,Kerala.State

Dream House for NRI at Kannur

Query

Hi I am Céline live in UK.planning to build a house back in Kerala in my home town.while I was going through the construction company my eyes got caught on yours.

hope you will be able to help me.

our place name is Pachani in Kannur.It is a small place ,the area we are planning to build is a flat plot about an acre in between 2 small hills.its a lovely place.

I am looking to build a house within 2800sqft area.5 bed room house,2 bed room down stairs and 3 up.looking forward to see different models please.I am desperate so please do help me.thanks.

waiting to hear from u.

Céline Scaria

My reply

You do not have to be desperate

I can convert your dreams in to reality with professional care,guidance and assistance

I will have to first visit site where the house has to come up to study site conditions and to make myself familiar with site and surroundings so that I can dream your future house better and check Vasthu aspects for the plot so that a Vasthu compliant design can be developed

You will have to write to me in detail what all you hope to have in the house and your dreams for the house.

Construction of house using Ferro cement

Query

Dear Mr. Thomas,

I came across your website on Ferro cement construction. I retired as Chief Gen. Manager, Cochin Shipyard and now stay at Ernakulum.

I require an additional room on the first floor of my residence and having gone through your website came to the conclusion that a Ferro cement construction would be the right option. Could you be of assistance please.

T J Cherian

My reply

A Ferro cement construction will be good.But right now in and around Cochin there is only one some what reliable company doing just Ferro cement septic tanks and under ground water tanks.Due to lack of competition,they are not much customer friendly to do custom built Ferro cement building parts

So option before you will be to do the construction of one extra room with solid block concrete bricks.

My replies to your queries

2011-07-27T09:30:00.001-07:00

LANDSCAPE DESIGN

Query

Hello Mr Thomas

My name is Melvin Mathew and I am a resident of Thiruvalla and currently staying currently outside India.

I saw your blog and I feel you are the right person who could help me with some ideas on modification of the outdoor of my house.

I have a big fish tank that was built in front of my house about 6.5 deep and the length is about 9 m and width of 4m. I had different variety of fish there, but nowadays I don't find time to maintain there and don't find people who can help for that as well and so maintaining it has become difficult for me and no more scope of an aquarium there. I don't stay there regularly so I wanted to do some changes with it or modify it so that it can add to the beauty of the house and could be of some use so that I don't just need to close it. I have some grapes growing just above it, hanging on an curved iron rod structure, so closing it will would mean losing the grapes which I don't want to..

Could you please help me with some good ideas, and if possible I can call you as well or we can meet when I come to Kerala. Thanks in advance for your reply.

Warm Regards

Melvin Mathew

Bradford University School of Management, MBA 2011

My reply

I can give you suggestions on better landscape design for your house outdoor only after a site visit.Are you interested?

CRZ restrictions for river side house

Query

Hi Mr. Thomas,

Found your website very useful/informative.

I am a UK resident, primarily from Palakkad.

I had brought a property – 23 cents behind UC College – right at the bank of Periyar – the property can be seen from the Mangalapuzha bridge.

The property was divided from a bigger property of 50 cents and the person who sold me has a big house constructed in his plot a few years back.My property has a 20 min frontage and has a depth of 35 meters.

I now want to sell this off due to other commitments. Recently, I heard that there are some rules which prohibit construction at riverside.

Is this true ? Appreciate if you could spare some valuable time and provide some guidance on the same ?

Vinod Kumar

My reply

CRZ act prohibits construction up to 50M from river side

It is possible to construct if you have an existing building line.(an existing building should come in same line of your building) or a road in between.But you will have to get prior permission from concerned local authority before commencement of construction

Renovation of Existing House

Query-1

Dear Sir,

My name is Siva Kumar. I reside in Chennai.I am planning to renovate the ground floor of my house and to construct first floor as well.

Just wanted your help for the designs and plans. Also, is it possible for you to visit the site? If yes, then please let me know the date and expenses.

Please find attached pictures of my existing house in Chennai.

Shiva

Query-2

Dear Thomas,

Seen your site which offers various services in home renovation.

Let me introduce my self as Saji Dominic working in Abu Dhabi.

We got an old house approx. 40 years old in mukkotuthara near Erumely. Its a normal house . Would like to know if are taking contracts for such jobs or will be able to provide a good design for the same.

Since the place is distant from Ernakulum, based on your convenience i will be able to share you few snaps of the house to be renovated.

Appreciate your response.

Saji Dominic

My reply

To start with, I will have to visit villa to be remodeled and study work involved for remodeling/extension.After the site visit, I will give a report on what exactly can be done on the existing structure to meet your expectations/needs

Based on this initial evaluation of work, using measurements collected from site and your old drawings related to the house if any, I will prepare what we call a Basic Plan for the modified house which will show positions and dimensions of rooms, doors and windows of the remodeled house only. This Basic Plan if required can be revised without any extra charges to meet your requirement fully, subject to our acceptance of your change requests

After this, we will go systematically in a professional manner by providing complete professional care and technical guidance to reach your dream house.

Elevation for three bed house

2011-07-26T21:45:00.001-07:00

Elevation for three bed room house designed by us for an NRI given below

Any one like to get plan of this house mail me to vhthomas@viruvelil.com

Replies to queries-House construction

2011-07-21T09:50:00.001-07:00

PANCHAYATH BUILDING PERMIT

Query

Dear Sir,

I,m interested in a new house which is built in a panchayat.All the documents seems to be perfect except building approved plan and permit .The owner is giving some excuse like its not there or its with panchayat office. And he says that permit is not required for his plot because .its only 2.5 cents.

What is the validity of a permit.If we are third owner. Do we require permit?

Sir I want to know whether he is correct. Should I buy his property.?

Ram

My reply

For a completed house with building no and panchayath tax paid receipt you do not have to worry about building permit and approved plan.There was a rule about few months back which demanded obtaining building permit in panchayath also.Currently there is no such requirement of building permit prior to construction

With the building no you can even check with concerned panchayath whether the house is built as per rules.Better still you can approach a professional agency to check all legal and technical aspects related to the property including the building.Such verification of documents and property will make you safer in purchase of property

COST OF CONSTRUCTION

Query

we are interested to contact with you about the construction of a house in Edappally Cochin,but we are still in Dubai . We are having only 5 cent land there and it is a square land .So that how many square meter house we can construct and what is the cost per square meter .We are awaiting your reply

Cherian Thomas

My reply

Cents is only area of land.While designing a house a better frontage,positions of roads on sides of property matters a lot.Unless you send me plot sketch of the land,I cannot comment on how best land can be utilised for building a house.

If you tell me what all you need in the house,I can give you an approximate cost figure even though cost can be calculated only after finalisation of plan of the house.

NEW HOUSE CONSTRUCTION

Query

Hi Thomas,

My Name is Bony and am from Kolenchery area.

Really appreciate your help to us NRIs.keep up the good work.

We got a nice plot near the NH in Kolenchery . The plot is on a slope but already leveled.We are planning to construct our home there. I am in Canada with family. My Parents and in laws are insisting that they can complete the supervision etc. for the house..They are old and tired and don't want them to suffer much. Not only that as an Engineer I am not much happy with current 'Asharis' as well.

Please advice what service you can provide me in Kolenchery. I would really like to see a start to finish job with clear timelines.

I will be there for a vacation from Aug 27th onwards and will be there for one month.

We would really like a 4or 5 bedroom with bath attached , Front verandah and a traditional type roofing.

Cheers

Bony

My reply

I am mailing you details which you need to know for designing and building a new house.We can design and build your house at Kolenchery from developing design concepts to completion.

Chappa Kurish-a film worth seeing

2011-07-19T09:15:00.001-07:00

Before this film,I have never heard about these two words together,Chappa Kurish.Though I have heard of Chappa meaning a seal and Kurish ,our good old cross separately.

I do not understand how this name Chappa Kurish relate to the film even after seeing this film.When I asked some one he said,Chappa Kurish means head or tails while tossing a coin.There was no coin tossing in this film.One reason I hesitated seeing this film was this not attractive or appealing name of the film.Then those big posters showing Vineeth Sreenivasan in filthy surroundings carrying a bucket.It also gave me an impression that the film is not worth seeing.Rima Kallingal was tweeting so emphatically saying that it is a film worth seeing.So I decided to try expecting a boring film.

But it was not boring at all and it is definitely a great change from our usual superstar films with oft repeated unbelievable stories.Yes.this film brings Malayalam films closer to picturising life in its reality.

Lead man in the film,Fahad had acted so well.Vineeth could only try to do well.But did not succeed to the extent of expectation.Remya Nambisan did not have much to act.Rima did well by not taking up that role (as she tweeted) even though offered this role.

Coming from construction industry I can say that no construction company send a lady executive acting as secretary to Chief of operations to village offices or to any other offices to get things done or bribe people.All these liaison works with govt offices are handled by separate agencies.COO or his secretary has to simply monitor these through phone calls.So that part is a technical error.

Hero telling heroine that he never promised to marry her and heroine thinking otherwise also lack credibility.Fight at the end after all damages done is highly exaggerated.No indication of family of heroine and her friends in spite of such damaging experiences in her life.That is surprising in the story line.

Camera work is noticeably good.I never ever thought that Malayalam films will deal with stories with touch and smell of realities of life. This film is a welcome change in that direction and a must see film in spite of it’s unattractive name.

Your queries-House design and Construction

2011-07-18T08:01:00.001-07:00

Another Building in same plot

Query

Hi sir have a nice day

I have one plot in s.n.nagar Irinjalakuda 16cent already have one house in this plot now i want made another shop cum house if it possible or not [two bed room ]

Smitha Sajeev

My reply

I will have to visit site and study site conditions before I can comment on your query

Restarting Construction

Query

Dear Sir;

First of all I would like to introduce myself;my name is Salim Abdul Aziz currently working in Saudi Arabia. I have laid a foundation of 1350 sq.ft. in Thiruvalla, Kerala in two years before. The foundation is including three bed rooms, One hall + dining, kitchen +work are, and two bathroom. Now I want to start next step to finish until roofing. So,would you please confirm me approximately how many rupees is required me to finish until roofing. I am planning to start the construction November –December. I need this information to arrange the money before starting construction.

Your early response will be highly appreciated.

Salim

My reply

If you have plan of the house,send me.I have to visit site and study site conditions and take measurements from site.After obtaining details,we can work out an Engineering Estimate which will give cost indication.Just by knowing details given by you no body can give cost indication

Cost indication

Query

Dear sir

I have been going through your blog and found it very informative .I am planning to build a house in Ernakulum district,I am presently employed in the USA,planning to begin the construction pretty soon.

Could you please have a look at these specs,that I have in mind

around 2000+ sq. feet
4 bed rooms
traditional Kerala plan

Any idea what would be the approx. cost.

Thanks in Advance
Arun Nair

My reply

Cost can be guessed or rather estimated only after we have at least initial design of the house to be built ready

I am sending you our standard introductory mail which will give details you need to know when you start thinking of planning your house construction

Use of wood for house construction

Query

Hi Thomas

I liked your blog. My name is Biju and I am constructing a house at Irinjalakuda. I need your advice in selecting wood for door frames. Which wood is good for door frames. I cannot afford Teak and now the trend is using an imported wood called Pincoda. How is the quality of these wood. I have an architect and he says not to select the wood now as it is rainy season. Since the wood will absorb water and the quality of the wood will be poor. He asked me to wait for another 4 to 5 months, so that we may get good wood. Is it true

Biju

My reply

Pincoda is an imported wood not suited to our climate of extreme heat and humidity.

It is better to use Anjily wood which is at least 60 years old as younger Anjily wood when used may bend.you can use Anjily for door,window frames and Mahogany for shutters if you cannot afford Teak wood

It is true that you have to use seasoned wood(wood which is dried up enough after cutting).In rainy season quality of wood do not vary .

New Construction

Query

Dear Mr. Thomas,

Whilst browsing net, I came across your advises and information on building house. I feel you are the right person to consult with.

I am from Annamanada near Mala and presently working in Doha Qatar. I intent to build a house and wish to take your valuable directions.

I have a house of three bedrooms in 18 cents of land. and this house is 25-28 years old. I wish to demolish this and build a better one within my budget.

Please advise me, in order to seek your service what is the next step.

Will appreciate your response.

Sabu Abu

My reply

First step is to list out what all you need in the house

Second,list out what all you hope to have in the house if funds availability can permit

Third,get the best Architect with qualifications,experience and lot of common sense to design your house and to guide you from concept to completion of house construction

Then,you will be properly and professionally guided to achieve the best with the least cost

Training with us

Query

sir,
am Teesha Majumder.i have already send u my my resume to u,i would like 2 have training in your company for short period of time.

one of my friend had already send u her resume,shreya Ghosh dastidar.and u have accepted her resume.and my another friend will also send u her resume for the same.

actually we are three friends and would like to go take the training under you together.

if you kindly,accept us as trainee under you,we will be grateful to you.

My reply

Short term training can be given without any payment on either side for architecture/civil engineering students willing to visit sites

Assignments in class passed over

Query

HI ! I m a architectural student of 2nd year.from VIDYAVARDHA'S IDEA, NASHIK.(MAHARASHTRA).
I WANT INFORMATION ABOUT MUNNAR & KERALA.

ABOUT HOUSING STYLE IN MUNNAR.
ROOFING DETAILS
CLIMATIC CONDITION
SOIL TYPE
HOW HOUSES ARE RELATED TO THERE CULTURE & TRADITIONS.
LIFESTYLE
HOW IT AFFECTS TO THE ARCHITECTURE.
PLEASE SEND ME INFORMATION AS EARLY IF POSSIBLE.( TILL 3 PM TODAY B'COZ MY SUBMITION IS TODAY).

My reply

I cannot do assignments in class for you.If you want you can add me in Facebook and chat on your queries

Follow me on Facebook and twitter

2011-07-16T23:37:00.001-07:00

Log onto our websites

www.viruvelil.com

www.keralaarchitecture.com

www.kerala-dreamhomes.com

Click on photo gallery to view few pictures of houses designed and built by us

You can have a look at few pictures of houses designed and built by us at Facebook page. You can even add me as a contact in Facebook so that you will get continuous updates on my blog entries and interactions with clients.

Here is the link:

http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=531348963&sk=photos

Follow me on twitter and keep in touch

http://twitter.com/#!/archtomy

Answers to queries-House Design and construction

2011-07-12T06:08:00.001-07:00

Cost of construction

Query

Sir,

I got your e-mail ID from http://www.keralaarchitecture.com. I am planning to build a home. I have already:
Acquired land
Created a plan.Kindly help me estimate the cost of building the home.We already prepared a plan. Just want to know a rough estimate. Will you be able to help?

Regards,

Jinesh. P. G.

My reply

Just any plan prepared by any one will not suit your house to be built.Most important part of building a house well is not getting a contractor who quote lowest rate to get work and start demanding extras at every stage and finally giving you worst house at high cost.

Get the best plan designed by the best Architect you can find with lots of experience.Experience and lots of common sense make an Architect the right person for you

A well designed plan can save you lakhs of rupees and better utilisation of your space and money

Improving on plan prepared

Query

Good day Sir,

My name is Sreejith Sadanandan, a resident of Pandanad (near Chengannur). My brother is working abroad as draughtsman . Now we together are planning to build a new house just behind our old one, considering our front courtyard and space constrains. Towards this, my brother prepared a plan, we discussed over it and made some changes considering some very basic vasthu aspects. This plan just satisfies our room and space requirements.

Now we need an expert architect to look into the plan and improvise the plan for a better appearance and optimum utilization of space considering the technical aspects and current trends. In addition we are a little worried about the roof part, its appearance after the competition and rain water flow related technicalities. Yesterday I happen to see your website, got interested in your designs and decided to consult you with my plan.

I'm attaching the plans with changes being made in the final plan. I request you to look into the plan and improvise it. With your expertise and vast experience, I hope you can make this plan a far better one. We have not yet decided to build the house on a contractual basis or else. Further, I can come down to your office any time you require. Thanking you,

Sreejith S

My reply

I will go through plan and other drawings sent by you and will write to you with my comments.It is good that you thought of getting your plan checked at this initial stage itself.

RED OXIDE FLOORING

Query

I got your mail id's from your website when I was searching for information about red oxide I hope you had done your projects on red-oxide flooring. Even otherwise could you please advice me on the cost of red-oxide flooring. That would be really a great way to decide red-oxide flooring for my house.
Since the cost of Vitrified tiles is high with Rs.45 for the material at a minimum and another Rs.45 for the labour and materials I thought I can go for red-oxide flooring. More over its beautiful and gives an aesthetic look.
Vishnu

My reply

You can use clay tiles on floor.Cost around Rs.20 per sft

It is difficult to get masons who can do red oxide flooring well these days

LOW COST HOUSES

Query

Dear Sir,

I came across your articles (construction of houses) on the net.I want to make a house in Changanacherry.I stay outside Kerala.Thought of making a 2 storey so that I can give the upper floor for rent.I can afford only 20 lakh loan.My rough plan comes to 1700sqft.

What is your opinion about Low Cost houses ? How good are interlocking bricks for Kerala weather?pls advice.Do you have branch near Changanacherry?Do you take up construction in any place?I had shown my plan to a contractor , he quoted 1500/sq. ft.But I cant afford.Please help

Jacob

My reply

Low cost houses of Larry Baker about 15 years back were based on assumption that “material is costly and labour is cheap”.So any amount of labour used to save material cost was the basis of “low cost houses” of those days.

Today labour is costly and difficult to get.So efforts are on to reduce labour to the extent possible in house construction.I do not recommend interlock bricks for house construction.You can use it for compound wall construction.

We can design and build your house at Changanassery.Right now we are doing a house at Changanassery.Regarding quotation given by contractor read what I have written above in another reply.

Square feet plinth area of the house will be known only after your Architect finalise plan of your house and you cannot simply assume it.

House with limited budget

Query

I am having a plot of 15 cent.I would like to make a house of 1400 - 1600 sq. feet and my budget is 12 - 15 lac.i prefer to a 4 bed room home,hall.kitchen,work area,dining room.and all the bedrooms are to b attached..if u can send me some photos of these type of houses,it will b more helpful for me.and one more thing my budget will remain same. tat much money only m having.

prince

My reply

It may not be possible for you to construct a four bed house with just Rs.15 lakhs even by present cost of construction inputs.If you postpone construction,cost can only go up.

My advice to you is to start construction with whatever funds you have as in Indian conditions cost of all inputs can only go up due to large scale uninterrupted looting by politicians.All these scams are pushing prices up

Salt and Pepper-a welcome change in Malayalam film

2011-07-08T09:02:00.001-07:00

Feeling inferiority complex is so common among all of us.But nobody has thought of making it theme of a film and film Salt and Pepper has done exactly that.

Lal has acted so well that not even once while watching the film I thought of it being actor Lal even though there is hardly any make up for him.Feeling of being inadequate and not up to the expectation level of others especially those whom you want to really impress to get in to the heart of that person is picturised so well by Lal through his acting.Swetha Menon did try well but could not reach up to that level of Lal.

Asif Ali and the female counter part also tried to express same feeling and Asif Ali did comparatively much better with his acting talents.

I do not know why that sub story with Vijayaraghavan and his failed love story is added.It does not serve any purpose and weakens credibility level of the film.Story of a cook hijacked from a house where Lal went for bride seeing can be passed off as an attempt to add humour even though it also lacks credibility.

Premikkumbol is the theme song of the film and the song is simply great with both Jayachandran And Neha singing so well.Voice of Neha while singing this song is almost heavenly and she sang so well making her entry in to film world real great.She has great future ahead in her singing career

Finally that presentation of Avial song at the end did not appear to be appropriate for me.It is just adding another program after completing the film and it protrudes out.I do not know why Neha is not included in that show.

Answers to queries

2011-07-07T09:54:00.001-07:00

NEW HOUSE CONSTRUCTION

Query

hi sir,

My name is prince and I am working in air force.I would like to make an independent house of around 1000- 1500 sq. feet.my budget is 12 to 15 lac.I am planning to make this house next year beginning.please provide me the instructions.

prince

My reply

You have to tell me the following:

1.Where do you intend to construct house?

2.Square feet plinth area of the house will be known only after your Architect designs your house plan suited to your site conditions,your needs and possible budget.So tell me what all you need in the house and what all you hope to have in the house.

I am copying below our standard Introductory mail which will give you a fair idea on how to go about designing and building a house.

Query

Hi,

I have a plot at Cherai ( about 2 km from beach ). its about 28 cents. I plan to build a traditional Indian home there.
am currently studying in USA, but is at Vypeen ( cochin ), for about a couple of weeks. I wish to know how you will be able to help me.

I might not be open for visiting the plot, cause i wish to keep the plot and the neighbours from being disturbed. that could be done only when everything is fixed.

Yours Sincerely,
Arun Kannanganat

My reply

Ok.I do not have to visit plot.You can send me plot dimensions,position of roads nearby and directions.Also write to me in detail on what all you need in the house

Query

Dear Mr. Viruvelil,

I have a 06 cent corner plot in Kakkanad facing South with a bell mouth on south west and I would like to build a 2200 sq. ft. house with following features,

Car Porch on east south

Sit out

Kitchen 4*4.25m on south east behind car porch

4 bed rooms with attached toilets ( 4*4.25m) ( Toilet 2*1.5m)

a common toilet under Stairs

1 Hall ( 6*5m) south west

1 dining ( 5*5 m) North East

Balcony and Open terrace on South west

Please find attached sketch of plot, a rough plan drawn by me, preferred pictures of house.

Is it sense to give contract to a local contractor..

Please help me to build beautiful simple house to meet my budget avoiding costly extra works.

Kind Regards

Biju Antony

My reply

I will look at drawings and details sent by you and will reply in detail later

If you want to build your house at Kakanad,why don't you think of giving us entire work from design to completion of house?

REMODELLING EXISTING HOUSE

Query

Dear Thomas,

Happened to see you blog. Definitely you are giving very valuable information for people like us, who are planning to build houses. I have a 7.5 cent rectangular plot in Peyad, Trivandrum with a 30 year old tiled house. I would like to demolish that house to build a house of around 2000 sft. In order to make an estimate I prefer you to visit the plot during my next vacation ( after 1 month- at present I am in Dubai).

Please let me know your charges for the visit/consultation.

Regards

L.S.Pillai

My reply

I can visit your site study site conditions,take measurements and provide you a plan of the modified house to start working on your desire to remodel your existing house

From there ,I will guide you step by step to convert your existing house to a better house with more facilities and modern look with all it's old glory retained

Kindly indicate your possible period of visit in advance for me to confirm date of my visit to your plot,as I cannot commit a date of visit on short notice