Located in the rural part of Kottayam District in Kerala, India, ‘KGR Farm Cabin‘ sees the transformation of a tiny shelter into a multipurpose family gathering space. The clients — a former bank officer couple — wanted to convert their property into an organic farm after their retirement. According to their wish for farmland, architectural studio N&RD has removed all the trees from the site that was previously a rubber plantation, but this resulted in extremely hot conditions for the area. Thus, the design team came up with the idea of a day shelter that could host the whole family.
Taking an area of almost 1 acre (4,046 sqm), the site accommodates farmlands as well as a tiny cabin that serves as a family gathering space. The structure provides a minimal yet functional living space. The facility features a room with minimal seating, a kitchenette, and an attached toilet. Furthermore, a storeroom is designed for safekeeping farm equipment, fertilizers, and other necessities. Meanwhile, the design team added a long cantilevering roof to extend the living space and protect the inhabitants from the sun’s rays.
Although the cabin uses minimum space, it optimizes the views of the surroundings. Most of the east side partitions can fully open, providing visual contact with almost the entire property while one seats inside. However, thanks to its location being a bit far from the main street, it meets the requirements for privacy and quietness.
