Baker’s Home Blooms: Kerala’s Garden Café Oasis
Experience the magic of design evolution as Vinod Mathews of Kriya breathes whimsical charm into a tropical abode by Laurie Baker, now reborn as a captivating garden café in Kerala.
Formerly the residence of the late film star Captain Raju, the Laurie Baker building on Chandrasekharan Nair Road, Kuravankonam, has been creatively transformed into a 120-seat restaurant by architect Vinod Mathew. Retaining Baker’s signature touches, the space seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor elements while preserving its architectural legacy
With Laurie Baker’s signature arches and exposed brick walls, enveloped by vibrant plumeria and bamboo, the cafe transports visitors to a tropical oasis.
Witness the seamless fusion of architectural legacy and natural allure in this enchanting narrative of transformation where he design palette elegantly combines black, grey, and brick red hues, creating a cohesive indoor-outdoor aesthetic. Lush greenery adds a tropical flair while repurposed furniture, painted black, seamlessly integrates into the design.
Aesthetic lighting and fans enhance the ambience, while a false bamboo ceiling, covered with glass, ensures adaptability to Kerala’s climate.
Thiruvananthapuram’s Villa Maya also clinched the prestigious Restaurant of the Year 2023 title at the esteemed Haute Grandeur Global Restaurant Awards. It shone in categories such as Best Luxury Heritage Restaurant, Most Opulent Ambiance, Best Luxury Theme Restaurant, and Food Presentation.
“The design emphasizes the outdoor experience while honoring the original architecture,” the architect notes. Brass plates with cutout patterns, inspired by Laurie Baker’s brickwork, adorn the coffee bar counters. Statement brick walls continue the theme outdoors, framing the wash area, water feature, and entrance.
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