Askin Architects is a group of dedicated Architects, Engineers and Interior Designers who have joined hands to turn your Dream Home into reality. Since its inception in June 2002, Askin Architects has designed hundreds of residences of various sizes; and proven itself to be a leading Home Designing Company and our homes have been featured in leading design magazines. Askin's unique Home Design Methodology helps you take the first step towards getting your customized Home Plan.

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Pergola in Kerala House Design


In simple terms, a 'Pergola' is a series of cross-beams placed over columns. It is an aesthetic feature, as well as provides a certain amount of shade below it. In Modern Kerala House Design, we see many balconies and porches covered with a pergola over it as an interesting elevational feature.

'Pergola' is an Italian word that means- 'extended roof'. In olden days, they were used as garden shades and covered with climbing plants, espectially over walkways in parks. Here is a picture of a Park walkway covered with Bougainvillea-



Kerala homes use Pergolas mainly in the balconies and also over internal courtyards. Unlike roofs, Pergolas do not offer protection from rain. Hence, when they are used above interiors, a tempered glass or polycarbonate sheet is provided over it to prevent water from entering inside.



Although they do not offer rain-protection, Pergolas can be used to provide varying degrees of shade below it. 90% of the sun's rays pass through at noon-time, but when the sun is at an angle, the series of beams create shade patterns that block the sun. Pergolas are an excellent feature for roof gardens. Potted plants and lamps can be hooked over it; and garden vines can be grown over it. It offers the much needed sunlight for the garden.

In Nadumuttoms, the Pergolas provided above the courtyard create dramatic shade patterns. Free-standing pergolas can also be provided in the frontyard as a garden feature or a gazebo. It can also be used above Padippura gateways.


Chapter 30: Verify the Reputation of the Builder or Contractor

KERALA LAND BUYER'S COMPANION HANDBOOK Architect Shahdad Karim PART V: Professional Services and Project Materials Chapter 30: Verify th...