Did you know that an open-air theatre in a Kerala village is helping revive Kathakali for the next generation?
Preserving cultural heritage in architecture isn’t just about walls and roofs—it’s about legacy, community, and future. That’s exactly what happened in Vazhenkada, where local efforts led to the creation of Kunju Nair Memorial Kala Kendram, a tribute to a Kathakali legend.
If you’re an architect in Kerala or someone passionate about culture-based design, this blog will show you how vernacular architecture can breathe life into tradition.
Understanding Kerala Cultural Architecture
The Kunju Nair Memorial Kala Kendram is more than a building—it's a space for living heritage. Built in memory of Kathakali maestro Vazhenkada Kunju Nair, it is rooted in Kerala’s traditional style and materials.
This centre combines:
- A 250-seat open-air theatre
- Kathakali research zones
- A multipurpose hall
- A children’s park
- An updated local library
💡 Important Point: The project used natural contours instead of flattening the land—preserving ecology and reducing cost.
What Was Done Before—and Why It Didn’t Work
In many rural spaces, cultural buildings were just concrete halls with no relation to local identity. These:
- Lacked proper zoning
- Used heat-trapping materials
- Ignored accessibility
- Missed community needs
💡 Important Point: Prior projects overlooked the emotional and ecological aspects of cultural space planning.
Common Mistakes
- Using industrial materials without climatic concern
- Flat terrains that ignored land’s natural slope
- Minimal pedestrian planning
- Ignoring local stories and history
- No space for play or flexible use
How This Project Did It Better
The design followed a vernacular principle: use what’s local, stay true to heritage, respect the land.
💡 Important Point: The project created minimal disruption while providing maximum cultural engagement.
Main Ideas of the New Method
- Material Honesty: Laterite, terracotta tiles, jalis
- Topographic Zoning: Built with the slope, not against it
- Pedestrian First: Car-free zones and walkways
- Cultural Nodes: Library, gym, theatre as anchor points
- Green Shielding: Trees to cool rock formations
Why This Approach Worked So Well
The result? A cost-effective, climate-smart, community-led cultural space that feels rooted yet modern.
💡 Important Point: The theatre at the lowest slope reduced earthwork—and costs!
Things That Got Better
- Heat reduction via landscaping
- Walkability with smooth gradient paths
- Cultural pride among residents
- Safer play zones for children
- Visual harmony with natural materials
How You Can Apply These Lessons
First Step: Study the Site
Understand slope, vegetation, and emotional markers (like old trees).
Second Step: Material Match
Use local options like laterite and GI-truss-Mangalore roofs.
Third Step: Plan Around Community
Add flexible-use spaces and inclusive access via ramps.
Caption: Design process sketch of the project flow
👉 Expert Tip: Always include space for gathering, not just performing. Culture lives in community.
Real-Life Impact at Vazhenkada
The Problem
Vazhenkada lacked dedicated space to honour Kunju Nair’s legacy. The library was old. Kids had nowhere safe to play.
What They Did
They:
- Zoned site around natural slopes
- Integrated OAT into the lowest point
- Preserved heritage trees
- Used materials that age well
What Happened
- Youth now engage with Kathakali
- The library is active again
- Locals use the open gym regularly
- Community hosts events in the hall
Best Design Practices for Cultural Spaces
Method 1: Work With Nature
Slope, trees, and sunlight can be allies—not enemies.
Method 2: Vernacular First
Use materials that belong to the land. They look better and last longer.
Method 3: Design for the People
Involve locals. Add parks, gathering zones, and seating for elderly watchers.
💡 Important Point: Culture grows where people feel ownership.
Solving On-Site Challenges
Problem 1: Heat From Rocks
Fix: Use large trees for cover + breathable stone pavements.
Problem 2: Steep Slopes
Fix: Ramp-based flow with resting areas and seats.
Problem 3: Preserving Heritage Tree
Fix: Designed pathways around the tree—not over it.
👉 Expert Advice: Start with what can’t be moved—design around it.
Future of Vernacular Architecture in Kerala
Trend 1: Low-impact Zoning
More projects will now follow slope-based designs.
Trend 2: Indigenous Materials Return
Laterite, lime plaster, and clay tiles will dominate again.
Trend 3: Modular Cultural Units
Smaller flexible units built with traditional style will become the norm.
💡 Important Point: Kerala’s future architecture must blend heritage with flexibility.
Common Questions
Q: What are the best materials for cultural buildings in Kerala?
A: Laterite, terracotta, wood, and lime are climate-friendly and locally rooted.
Q: How do you make designs accessible in sloped land?
A: Use ramps and natural terraces to guide flow. Avoid stairs-only plans.
Q: Can small towns afford such projects?
A: Yes! This entire campus was built for ₹1.4 Crore, carefully planned.
What to Do Next
To recap:
- Use your terrain to your advantage
- Choose local over imported materials
- Plan with the people
First Thing: Walk your site before sketching
Second Thing: Map sun and slope before zoning
Third Thing: Involve local voices from day one
Start Your Cultural Project Now
We’d love to hear your thoughts! Have you worked on projects like this in Kerala? Tell us in the comments!