This 9,950 Sq. Ft. Seaside Retreat In Karnataka Channels Biophilia For A Slower Way Of Life

Situated in the exquisite beach town of Malpe in coastal Karnataka, this 9,950 sq. ft. holiday home boasts of a truly unique location; any guesses? Well, it is perched on an estuary.  Designed by Bangalore-based Thomas Parambil Architects, this stunning sanctuary is nestled amidst the pristine confluence of the Udayavara river and the Arabian Sea at Malpe.  “The house belongs to a family of three who are based in Bengaluru. It serves primarily as a vacation home; a serene getaway for the family to unwind and reconnect with nature,” says Thomas Parambil, founder, Thomas Parambil Architects.  It is also designed to welcome their close friends and extended family, making it a focal point for shared experiences, precious memories and celebrations. While the objective of the home is mainly as a vacation retreat, the home has been equipped with all the essentials to allow for comfortable, long stays whenever the family visits Malpe. It is thus a seamless blend of aesthetics and functionality.

Unconventional Orientation, Unique Design

While the client’s brief emphasised the creation of a tranquil retreat where family and friends could gather, there was a clear focus on the entire structure remaining deeply connected to the surrounding landscape. They sought a space that felt open, warm, and rooted in nature, while also being one that offered privacy and comfort. “Thus, the design of the house was conceptualised around its truly exceptional setting–the estuary. Instead of orienting the structure directly towards one view, we chose to align the building along an east–west axis. This unconventional orientation captured the magnificent views of both the river and the sea from either end.  This also protected the interiors from harsh direct sunlight,” adds Parambil. 

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Another key feature of the house is the fact that it comprises of two primary blocks, which are connected by a central deck that also functions as a zone where friends and family bond. The deck stands out as the central anchor of the home, offering a seamless connection between people and places.  The western block houses the common areas, living, dining, kitchen, and bar, designed as one open, fluid space without walls. The eastern block accommodates the private bedrooms, each designed as an enclosed sanctuary of rest and retreat.  The structure is largely spread across two levels: a main living level and a tucked-in basement for parking and services, cleverly integrated into the site’s natural slope. “The open-plan layout was an intentional choice to encourage interaction and a sense of freedom. We wanted the heart of the home to feel seamless, a continuous experience of space, light, and view,” says Parambil.

Earthy Chic Palette

In line with the home’s main philosophy of being deeply rooted in nature, the interiors also reflect the same.  Think warm textures, abundant use of wood and a muted colour palette.  “The flooring uses tactile, organic finishes that complement the interior’s rustic minimalism. Walls remain simple and unobtrusive, allowing the materials to take centre stage. We have focused on thoughtful contrasts–such as wood alongside polished stone or concrete; this introduces subtle elegance without appearing overly styled. ,” adds Parambil. 

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Furniture pieces have been crafted with an emphasis on clean lines and comfort. Upholstery and soft furnishings use natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, and jute in neutral tones. It is key to note that these natural materials are not just timeless but also invite tactile comfort, creating an ambience that feels real, rooted, yet relevant. The Wabi-sabi brings a quiet, calming rhythm to the home, aligning perfectly with the purpose of a coastal retreat.

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Climate Responsive Design

The architecture relies on passive design strategies to adapt to the regional climate. “By using deep overhangs and thoughtful orientation, the design minimises direct heat gain through the sun. Further, cross-ventilation is ensured through large openings on both sides, this reduces the reliance on artificial cooling,” adds Parambil.  The project was not without challenges, as the site’s natural slope presented some difficulties as well as opportunities for the design and build. “The road to the west is at an elevation of about three feet, and hence there is a gradual slope towards the east. We saw this as an opportunity and hence incorporated a basement beneath for parking and services. This not only preserves the natural landscape but also gives the structure a clean, aesthetic look when viewed from the exterior,” adds Parambil. 

It is apt to say that Rooh is an expression of restraint; it is architecture that aligns and blends into the landscape rather than competing with it. Every decision, from material choices to orientation, was made to foster harmony between built form and nature. The result is a timeless retreat, serene, sustainable, and deeply human in its scale and spirit.