Catalogue

The spread on Nalukettu in the Catalogue is to provide information about the style of the architecture shown in the display. The information relates to the traditions in Kerala on which this architectural style is based.

The Catalogue spread incorporates a picture of the space reconstructed as well as pictures of elements of traditional aspects of existing Nalukettus.

Poster

The poster is to show an element of the display in the museum which relates to the Nalukettu and through this bring about the a certain feel that can be related to the museum.

The poster shows a picture which is only partly in colour. This is to show how the modern reconstruction stands out in stark contrast with the traditional feel of an old Nalukettu and yet seems to blend in giving a feel of what the display is trying to convey.

Display Proposal

The concept of the display is to reconstruct a part of a Nalukettu (the traditional architecture style of Kerala) in such a way that it helps one relive the experience of visiting or living in such a place.

Display:
The presence of a skylight and reconstruction of other structural features of the central courtyard will help to give and insight into the actual feel of the place and create an atmosphere of peace.
The reconstructed central courtyard will be surrounded by screens which have projections which help to guide one through the daily life and activities of the residents of a Nalukettu as well as their surroundings.

Ideas for Display

While visualising the space to be used for the display we were shown a picture of the warehouse where the actual museum is to be set up. This gave me a general idea of the nature of the display the museum would be able to accommodate. My ideas for the final presentation of Nalukettus in the museum includes:

• Incorporating elements from the house into the general plan of the museum. This could include elements like a central skylight which gives a feel of the central courtyard in a Nalukettu.
• Usage of pillars and other traditional structural elements used in a Nalukettu could be incorporated in the construction of the museum as well.
• Projections that show spaces in a Nalukettu could be an interesting way of giving people a feel of the surroundings in a traditional Kerala house.
• The objects inside the museum could be placed in isolation interspersed with projections of the Nalukettu.
• Videos on the life of the people in the Nalukettu in older times.
• Videos on any rituals performed in the quadrangle of the house or within it.

Nalukettu

Nalukettu is the traditional style of architecture in Kerala. Houses built in this style have a quadrangle in the middle with four halls on surrounding it. It is now a status symbol among well to do in Kerala. It is evident in the traditional houses of the upper class homestead where customs and rituals were a part of life. The inside of the houses are decorated with a wealth of antiques made from teak, mahogany, sandalwood etc. It is considered the traditional homestead of 'Tharavadus'(joint families)
MATERIALS USED:
This style of architecture is wondrous and uses wood and tiles. Barring foundation and floor, it is made of carved slotted wood and has a close resemblance to East Asian gabled and thatched structures. Tiles replace the coconut fronds.
STRUCTURE:
The enclosed courtyard (Ankanam) is usually sunk and therefore called 'Kuzhi(pit) Ankanam'. The protruding roofs of the 'Salas'(blocks) of the Nelakettu form shady verandahs and protect rooms from direct sunlight, keeping them cool even on the hottest days. The inner verandahs round the 'Ankanam' are open. The outer verandahs-eastern and western are left open and the northern and southern verandahs are enclosed or semi-enclosed. The union of the four 'Salas' is considered the most beautiful arrangement for a residential building. The design must strictly follow the principles of Vaastu. Each of the Salas must be designed according to the dimension prescribed for the direction in which it lies. The kitchens should be in the northern or eastern part, bedrooms in the southern and western blocks. the 'Madhya Sutra'(middle line) should pass freely without any obstruction. A mound of Jasmine(Mullathara) acn be placed in the Ankanam. The central courtyard is considered auspicious and is kept neat and clean.
NEW GENERATION NALUKETTUS:
In the modern versions of the house the roof structures are made of concrete and finishing is done with Mangalore tiles. This reduces the usage of wood and improves building security. The tiles laid over the roof reduce leakage and control temperature inside during summer season.
PROS AND CONS:
The most important advantage of the Nelakettu is that it brings nature closer to man.
It has effective temperature and humidity control and a good ventilation system.
It utilises natural light.
Its verandahs and portico provide free space for movement.
It provides an arena for family get-togethers.
The Nalukettus have a disadvantage in the security aspect. The central open courtyard is vulnerable to external intrusion.
Dampness during rainy season may occur.
Presence of insects and mosquitoes due to the the open space proves to be a problem.
Lack of internal privacy is also prevalent because each and every room is visible from the central courtyard.
It requires a large area for construction and is highly costly to build.