George Ramapuram, the founder of Earthitects, an architecture company based in Bengaluru, finds inspiration in nature for every home project he undertakes. He believes that nature embodies the greatest design imaginable.
Many of his estates share a common feature – they embrace nature in its purest form. George meticulously observes the design of nature and integrates it into his architectural creations. One notable estate is centered around a venerable tree, which blossoms with yellow flowers each season.
“The tree on Estate Paathiri had graced the land for many years before we discovered it, and I was adamant about preserving it for generations to come. It now stands majestically within the master bedroom of the home,” he shares during a conversation with The Better India.
The Inspiration from Home
Nestled in Wayanad, Kerala, Estate Paathiri offers a haven of tranquility. Amidst the clamor of the world, residents wake up to the melodious chirping of birds.
George’s affinity for nature stems from his upbringing. Hailing from Coorg, he spent his formative years surrounded by the natural beauty of the region. “Attending school in Ooty, enveloped by forests, instilled in me a deep connection with nature. I’ve come to believe that no material or design can surpass the wonders of nature,” he reflects.
Describing the estate as a natural sanctuary, he remarks, “While our previous projects have always prioritized greenery, Estate Paathiri holds a special place. Its centerpiece is a magnificent tree, which captivates the senses.” This verdant retreat now serves as the residence for the current owners – Cherian T Ramapuram and his family. “When collaborating on a project, we strive to align with our clients’ vision. While we contributed many ideas, the clients shared our commitment to preserving the natural surroundings,” George explains. With the owners’ approval, George and his team devised plans for the 1.25-acre property.
A Habitat for Avian Visitors
At Estate Paathiri, time seems to stand still.
“Perched on a hillside, offering breathtaking vistas in every direction, the land is truly rejuvenating. As we conceptualized the design, we aimed to pay homage to the tree. Hence, we christened the estate ‘Paathiri,’ after the Malayalam name for the tree,” George reveals.
Envisioning the layout, he elaborates, “Given the property’s hillside location, our objective was to maximize panoramic views from every vantage point. To achieve this, we structured the layout across three levels.” The primary level comprises the living room, dining area, kitchen, and master bedroom. “This level also features a sky deck, linking to the veranda on the second level, offering breathtaking vistas. The second level, positioned slightly lower, encompasses two additional bedrooms with skylit baths and a family living area,” he concludes.
