Stone Lodges – Private Residences in Wayanad by Earthitects are all parts picturesque, serene and sustainable

“There is a pleasure in the pathless woods, there is a rapture on the lonely shore, there is society, where none intrudes, by the deep sea, and music in its roar: I love not man the less, but nature more.” A step into Stone Lodges – Private Residences in Wayanad by Earthitects establishes this quote by Lord Byron to a surreal reality.

A stunning visual surrounded by lush trees with the sound of streaming water and clear open skies kindles a sense of awe and longing that is accomplished by this project in Kerala. Ar. George E. Ramapuram, MD, Earthitects emanates each villa from the Earth and blends them seamlessly into the natural habitat. 

Located in Wayanad, Kerala, the 15 residences are spread out on 13 acres of plot area. With a built-up area of 7,320 sq ft, Estate 108 is one among them. Large parcels of land are assigned for each unit to ensure that the luxury of space can be experienced with fruit trees and herbs grown on the property.

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“Focused on designing spaces that are ‘one with nature’, our objective is to change the way people live. By adopting the native design sensibilities of the land, all our creations are inspired from the greatest design to exist—nature,” expresses George.

Earthy palette of material

Keeping up with an eco-friendly ethos, a natural material palette is utilised in the whole project. The floors, joinery and furniture are handcrafted with live edge teak wood that adorns the spaces with warmth and grain. Rough, uncut and unpolished stone forms the thick random rubble walls of the lodges. Clay roof tiles, ceiling eucalyptus poles, custom finished granite counters and stone deck floors are some of the other materials used. While most of them were acquired from the site, others were sourced locally to promote the nativity of Wayanad. 

A walk—through the Estate 108

Entering through the main door, the foyer unfolds into a courtyard bounded by the day lounge and dining on either side with their own viewing decks. The kitchen layout features an island and a cosy dining space. With light pouring across the entire stretch, the walkway from the first lodge to the next is an immersive experience with no visual barriers.

Descending from the bridge, you enter into the private areas on the second level—a family lounge and bedrooms. A customised rotating love-seater called ‘The Cocoon’ and a sofa seater titled ‘The Meader Lounger’ are hand-crafted and designed by the firm for the informal living space.

The two bedrooms on either side of the family lounge overlook the courtyards featuring teak wood beds, handcrafted wardrobes and snug seaters. The signature outdoor bath with a walk-in closet and an open shower area accentuates a combination of wood and stone.

Swimming pool deck on the third level contains the gazebo, infinity pool, lily ponds and outdoor dining with an endless view of the wilderness. Underneath the gazebo is a daybed to relax and unwind with the melodies of nature. 

“The villas were designed ‘around nature, rather than on it’, such that the existing flora and natural features play their part in enhancing this living experience. The challenge of building on a natural slope was taken as an advantage by achieving the best views of the forest and the surrounding mountains from every space in the home,” concludes George.

If Stone Lodges – Private Residences enthralled you, then check out the art and architecture of  Gudliya Suite, Jaipur City Palace