ARKIND’s designs for various projects in Kerala, India have won various International recognition in the past. ‘Highly Commended’ awards in previous Cityscape Global Awards in the years 2015, 2012-13 and 2011-12 and nomination to the World Architecture Festival Awards, known as ‘Oscars of Architecture’ in the years 2015, 2014 and 2013, Plan Awards-Italy in the Tourism, Leisure-Led Development, Education, Resort, Environmental, Culture, Community categories are few of these.
This year ARKIND is the only firm from Kerala to be shortlisted for this prestigious International Award, which is held as part of Cityscape Global- the largest Real Estate Development event in the World. Arkind has visualized and designed Tharakan’s Zephyr Homes as a resort for retired elderly, as a response to the social context of the region.
The Indian state of Kerala, where the project is located, is the only 100% literate state in India and has the highest percentage of educated people employed outside Kerala. They have migrated to US, GCC, Europe and other Indian metros like Mumbai, Delhi, and Chennai during the last quarter of 20th century and many of them return to their hometown, while their children are still outside Kerala. Many educated youths, leave their elderly parents and continue to go outside as there is not enough job opportunities within densely populated Kerala. The government also does not offer any special facilities for these elderly.
These returnees and the parents of migrated youth are suffering from isolation, loneliness and health issues and they require the support, comfort and togetherness of a community living. The neighborhood also has many needy elderly who are deserted by their children but cannot afford a new facility. However, they require daytime people places and medical assistance. Tharakan’s Zephyr Homes address this alarming socio-economic situation of the region for both the classes.
The design of the facility encourages interaction between the occupants through close proximity cottages in line with the traditional household arrangement of the region. Healthy living through the flow of cool pure air from paddy field, self-cultivated organic food, community interaction spaces, meditation and yoga area, plantation area, forest area, activity spaces and open roof walks fulfill the physical, mental and spiritual needs of the occupants.
Tharakan’s Zephyr Homes was initiated with a new concept of ‘’Back to the Roots’’ by inheriting the rich traditional and social background of the region. Designed in a land area of 8000 sq m the project consists of 66 cottages, main building with reception and multipurpose hall, a community centre, animal farms and all other amenities. The development is also integrated with 13,700 sq m plantation area and 27,750 sq m of paddy field.
A notable feature in the design of this facility is that the development does not hinder or reroute the natural water flow or wind flow in the site. This design strategy adopted by ARKIND in all their projects proves to be of utmost value and importance in the light of the recent disastrous flood situation in Kerala.