Water Villa Resort Prototype in the Backwaters of Kumarakom (Kerala)
by amitsaha in Design > Architecture
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Water Villa Resort Prototype in the Backwaters of Kumarakom (Kerala)
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Tucked amidst the tranquil backwaters of Kumarakom, Kerala, this water villa is not just an architectural marvel—it's a model of inclusive and sustainable development. Designed to harmonize with the serene beauty of Vembanad Lake, the villa is envisioned as a community-driven eco-stay that brings together the values of environmental sensitivity, cultural preservation, and economic upliftment.
Built using locally sourced materials and traditional techniques, the villa stands as a symbol of local craftsmanship and heritage. But more than that, it is a space created to generate livelihoods, revive forgotten skills, and stimulate small-scale entrepreneurship within the village. From boat-makers and carpenters to women-led food enterprises, every aspect of the villa’s functioning is designed to create a network of opportunity for the local population.
The project reimagines tourism as a tool for empowerment, where guests not only enjoy the slow rhythms of backwater life, but also contribute directly to the local economy. Whether it’s through curated village experiences, locally made products, or community-run services, the villa functions as a bridge between responsible travel and regional growth.
Supplies
SOFTWARE
- AUTO-CAD
MATERIAL USED:
- Sunboard
- Bamboo Sticks
- Cutting Tools (Cutter, Scissors)
- Adhesive
Showcasing the Problems
Building a water villa or resort is not just about creating a tourist attraction; it becomes a solution to several challenges faced by backwater communities. Such a project can open new doors for employment, revive traditional crafts, reduce migration of youth, and promote eco-friendly development. It turns natural beauty into an opportunity for sustainable growth while preserving the culture and environment of the region.
Some of the problems are listed below:
Limited Employment Opportunities:
In backwater regions, most residents rely on fishing, coir making, and small-scale farming, which often provide seasonal and irregular income. By establishing a water villa or resort, new avenues of steady employment are created in areas like hospitality, housekeeping, food services, guiding, water sports, transport, and cultural activities. This not only provides year-round jobs but also reduces migration to cities, helping locals earn a sustainable income close to their homes.
Decline in Local Handicrafts and Culture:
In many backwater regions, traditional crafts such as bamboo weaving, coir rope making, mat making, wood carving, and the construction of thatched roofs are gradually disappearing. These skills, once passed down through generations, are losing relevance due to modernization and a lack of consistent markets.
By introducing a water villa or resort, there is a renewed demand for these indigenous skills. The architecture and interiors of such villas rely heavily on locally crafted items—from bamboo furniture and hand-woven mats to coir décor pieces and thatched roofing. Resorts also serve as platforms to display local art, organize cultural performances, and even conduct craft workshops for visitors.
This not only revives fading skills but also turns them into profitable livelihoods, allowing artisans to earn steady income while keeping their cultural traditions alive. As a result, the water villa becomes a living museum of local craftsmanship and heritage, ensuring that culture and creativity remain integral to the community’s identity.
Water Resort and It's Effectiveness
Definition of a Water Villa/Resort
A Water Villa, also called an Overwater Bungalow or Floating Villa, is a luxury accommodation structure built directly over a water body such as a lagoon, river, backwaters, or sea.
These villas are supported on stilts or pylon structures that elevate the building above the water surface.
The design usually includes wooden or composite decks, large glass windows, open terraces, private pools, and direct access to the water, giving visitors a close connection to the natural environment.
Unlike conventional land-based resorts, Water Villas create a living experience that is fully integrated with water, allowing guests to enjoy privacy, scenic views, and direct interaction with aquatic surroundings.
Key Features
- Built Over Water: Located on stilts above a water body.
- Direct Access: Often includes stairs or platforms to enter the water directly.
- Natural Materials: Frequently made with sustainable materials like bamboo, wood, and thatched roofs.
- Open Design: Large windows, decks, and open spaces to enjoy the scenic surroundings.
- Exclusive Luxury: Usually designed as high-end accommodations.
Effectiveness of Water Villas
1. Tourism and Economic Growth
- Boosts Local Economy:
Attracts domestic and international tourists, creating revenue for local communities, government, and private investors.
- Employment Opportunities:
Generates jobs for local people in construction, hospitality, transport, food, and guiding services.
2. Promotion of Local Culture
- Water villas often integrate local architecture styles and use traditional materials, which helps preserve local craftsmanship and heritage.
- Tourists are exposed to the local way of life, encouraging cultural exchange.
3. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Tourism
- These villas promote low-impact development by avoiding large-scale land modifications.
- Raised structures on stilts minimize disturbance to the natural shoreline and water ecosystems.
4. Scenic and Experiential Value
- Offers panoramic views of the water, sunsets, and landscapes, enhancing the tourist experience.
- Activities like kayaking, fishing, and swimming can be enjoyed right from the villa’s deck.
6. Encouragement for Infrastructure Development
- Leads to better connectivity (roads, boats, ferries), electricity, water, and waste management systems in the surrounding regions.
Specific Location and Reason for Choosing This Place

Kumarakom is a serene village nestled on the banks of the Vembanad Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Kerala. Located in the Kottayam district, Kumarakom is approximately 16 km from Kottayam town and about 75 km from Kochi International Airport, making it easily accessible for both domestic and international travelers.
Why Kumarakom is Ideal for a Water Villa
1. Unique Backwater Ecosystem:
Kumarakom is famed for its intricate network of backwaters, canals, lagoons, and lakes, offering the perfect natural foundation for a water villa. The tranquil water bodies provide not just a scenic backdrop but a gentle aquatic cradle for floating or lake-side constructions.
2. Cultural Harmony & Hospitality:
The region thrives on its rich cultural traditions and Ayurvedic heritage. Local people are known for their warm hospitality, making it a hospitable location for a luxury retreat with a traditional touch.
3. Booming Tourism Infrastructure:
Kumarakom has evolved into a premium tourism hotspot over the years, with houseboats, Ayurvedic spas, and heritage resorts already present. A distinctively designed water villa would seamlessly integrate into the existing tourism ecosystem while standing out due to its architectural uniqueness.
4. Peaceful & Pollution-Free Environment:
Unlike many bustling tourist destinations, Kumarakom offers a quiet and pollution-free atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing getaway. It allows guests to disconnect from city life and reconnect with nature.
Base Layout

(all the CAD designs are made on a scale of 1 cm : 1 feet)
Draw the Outer Boundary:
- Began with the overall symmetrical flower-like shape.
- Used arc and line tools to construct the three curved lobes and connecting segments.
Construct Central Circular Chambers:
- Drew three overlapping circular segments within each lobe using arcs.
- Maintained symmetry and equal spacing between chambers.
Create Connecting Corridors:
- Used straight and curved lines to form passages connecting all three chambers.
- Maintained alignment with the central axis.
Place the Inner Dividing Walls:
- Drew thick magenta-colored walls inside each circular room.
- Positioned the inner walls in a radial pattern to reflect the central symmetry.
Draw Central Axis and Reference Circle:
- Marked a vertical centerline running from top to bottom.
- Used dashed red lines for alignment and symmetry control.
Insert Exit Arcs and Stairs:
- On the outer edge of the lobes and top exit, placed curved teal-colored arcs as steps or flow guides.
Add Structural Pillars or Columns:
- Yellow squares indicate pillar locations.
- Placed them at junctions and lobe centers for support.
Draw External Walls and Platforms:
- Defined the overall outer boundary using thicker white lines.
Downloads
Door and Window Layout

LEGEND / SYMBOLS REFERENCE
- Red Lines: Door swing outlines.
- Yellow Squares: Building columns
- Green Curves: Glazed partition symbols.
- Green Rectangle: Sliding Window
- Directional Compass: North is upward, for orientation.
DOOR AND WINDOW LAYOUT STEPS
- Main Entrance Door (Sliding) – Door No. ①
- Positioned at the center-top.
- Dimension: 4' × 7'
- Marked as a large entry point into the main hallway.
- LAPO Door for 1st Room – Door No. ②
- Placed at the entry to the 1st room (left circular room).
- Dimension: 4' × 6'
- Labeled with the number ② on the plan.
- LAPO Door for 2nd Room – Door No. ③
- Entry to the 2nd room (right circular room).
- Dimension: 4' × 6'
- Same style and size as Door ②.
- Sliding Murphy Door – Door No. ④
- Positioned between the central area and the hallway connecting to both rooms.
- Dimension: 2'6" × 6'
- Allows compact and efficient space separation.
- Sliding Door – Door No. ⑤
- Connects central spaces like smaller service/utility areas.
- Dimension: 6' × 6'
- Allows wide access within inner zones.
- LAPO Door - Door No. 6.
- Connect bathroom
- Sliding Window – Window No. ①
- Located on the top left and top right sides.
- Dimension: 8' × 4'
- Brings in light and ventilation to the main structure.
- Sliding Window – Window No. ②
- Placed near the bottom left room area.
- Dimension: 2' × 4'
- Offers additional daylight access in smaller zones.
- Glazed Partition – Window No. ④
- Positioned at the lower side of the structure.
- Dimension: 6' × 6'
- Marked with a green-blue glass symbol.
- Serves both decorative and light-sharing function between rooms.
Downloads
Floor Layout

Outer Boundary Layout
- The entire layout is enclosed within a smoothly contoured, organic-shaped boundary line (white).
- This denotes the outer limits of the structure/floor.
Central Axis & Symmetry
- The layout is symmetrical along a central vertical axis (highlighted by a red line running through the center).
- Spaces are mirrored on both sides of this axis, suggesting balanced spatial planning.
Domed/Circular Hall Sections (Yellow Hatch)
- Four major circular zones are made — two at the center and two on the sides.
- These are filled with yellow hatching representing floor patterns or wooden flooring.
- Each circular space have a specific function or room designation.
Connecting Passages
- The circular zones are linked via narrow corridors or walkways, also filled with the same hatch pattern.
- These connections help form a clover-like layout, enabling easy movement between zones.
Scale Reference
- A scale bar (3" x 6"), helping translate the drawing to real-world dimensions.
Downloads
Furniture Layout

Create Room Divisions:
- Divided the space into functional rooms or zones like bedrooms, living areas, kitchen, toilets, etc.
- Used line weights and hatching for clarity.
Insert Furniture Symbols with Labels:
- Added predefined furniture blocks from the AutoCAD library.
- Taged each furniture item with the corresponding number (from ① to ②⑤) using leader or center circle texts.
Label and Dimension Each Furniture Item:
- On the right side, created a Furniture Legend Table with:
- Serial number.
- Furniture name.
- Standard size/dimensions in feet and inches.
Living Room Layout:
- Placed items ① (Double Seater Sofa), ② (Single Seater Sofa), ③ (Round Tea Table), and ④ (TV Unit).
- Arranged in a circular seating setup on both wings.
Kitchen and Dining Area:
- Placed item ⑧ (Dining Table) centrally with ⑨ (Round Chairs) around it.
- Inserted items ⑩–⑬ (Kitchen elements) on the kitchen platform.
Bedroom Furniture:
- Added ⑭ (Round Bed), ⑮ (Round Side Table), ⑯ (Mirror Unit), ⑰ (Wardrobe).
- Maintained symmetry in both bedrooms.
Toilet & Bath Area Layout:
- Inserted items ⑲–②④: Jacuzzi, toilet basin, WC, shower, and rack.
- Positioned for functional flow and accessibility.
Add Miscellaneous Elements:
- Drew wall openings, staircases, and balcony outlines.
- Included swimming pools (blue outlines) and over-water hammock beds (magenta hatching).
Downloads
Electrical Layout

- The structure has three circular zones, forming a clover-like plan.
- Each circle contains electrical gadgets and ceiling fans.
- The central region connects all zones and seems to function as a shared/lobby area.
- Identify Symbols from the Legend:
- AC, TV, Fridge, Microwave, etc. – Red rectangles with respective labels.
- Ceiling Fan (F) – Circular fan blade icon.
- Ceiling Mounted Lights – Circular dashed icons in each zone.
Placement of Ceiling Fans
- 1 fan in each bedroom zone – centrally located for uniform air distribution.
- 1 in the lobby and 1 above the dining space.
Lighting Setup
- Ceiling-mounted round lights (dashed circles) placed in each zone.
Power Socket Distribution
- Double-switched sockets (Ds) and plug points (P) are placed:
- Near gadget areas like TV, Microwave, and Fridge.
- Beside door areas, beside beds for charging phones or at strategic intervals for general use.
Switchboards
- Located at accessible points near entryways or shared zones.
- One main switchboard controls gadgets in the area.
Gadget Positioning
Referencing the Gadget Table (top right):
- ACs in both bedrooms, in the lobby and in the dining room.
- TVs in 2 bedrooms and lobby – front-facing walls.
- Fridge, Microwave placed in kitchen and Mini Freezer placed in bedrooms.
- Correct dimensions for each gadget are mentioned in the chart.
Door Bell & Chime
- Located near the main entry point (bottom zone).
- Icon marked as Db and Dc.
Wiring Path and Connectivity
- Electrical path not shown explicitly, but follow standard:
- From main switchboard to all sockets, fans, lights, and gadgets.
- Ensure safe wiring through concealed conduits within walls and ceilings.
Downloads
Section Layout

1. Plan View Identification
- The upper half of the layout shows a top plan view.
- It comprises circular/semicircular pod-like units arranged symmetrically.
- Includes three major circular spaces and connecting rectangular passages.
2. Section Line Placement
- A dashed section line (A–A') cuts horizontally through the plan.
- Section markers with arrows on both ends indicate the cutting direction for the section view.
3. Functional Spaces
- Each circular module contains specific furniture:
- Beds, round seating areas, tables, and washroom components.
- The central pod has a common area, elements like sofa, table, TV and a kitchen & dining area with elements like kitchen table, 4-chair dining table.
- Colored blocks indicate different materials or utilities (yellow for furniture, cyan for utilities).
4. Orientation Guide
- A north symbol (compass) is provided at the top-right for layout orientation.
5. Sectional Elevation
- At the bottom of the drawing is the A–A’ section view.
- Vertical slice reveals:
- Interior details like walls, doors, beds, and fixtures.
- Hatching indicates solid cuts through walls and floors.
- Front view of furniture, windows, and partitioned walls.
6. Wall and Material Detailing
- Walls are shown with hatch patterns and colors to denote cut materials.
- Windows and openings are highlighted in cyan, and some detailing around wall finishes is visible.
7. Structural Symmetry
- Design symmetry is evident across the centerline.
- Section aligns perfectly with the layout for visual and construction clarity.
8. Dimension Reference (Implied)
- No dimensions are marked, but the layout is scale-ready.
- Assumed to be constructed with modular, repeatable units for ease of building.
Downloads
Pail Layout

1. Divide the Plan into a Grid
- Mark vertical lines labeled A, B, C, D, E.
- Mark horizontal lines labeled 1 to 8.
2. Locate Intersection Points
- Plot intersection points at each grid crossing.
- These points act as reference points for precise measurements and alignments.
4. Mark Key Structural Points
- Highlight important intersection points where the pail supports or structural columns will be placed.
5. Add Support Lines and Diagonals
- Connect specific points with straight lines and diagonals to create triangular sections.
- These lines indicate the structural bracing and support framework.
6. Central Support Reference
- Draw a vertical line from the center of the pail (grid C) downwards to act as the primary support axis.
7. Check for Symmetry
- Ensure that the left and right sections are symmetrical with respect to the centerline (C).
Downloads
Construction Methods of a Water Villa
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Water villas—luxury accommodations built over water—require specialized construction techniques to ensure durability, safety, and harmony with the surrounding aquatic environment.
- Site Analysis & Planning - Villas are designed to withstand marine weather conditions, often elevated to prevent water ingress.
- Foundation Construction - Strong foundation piles (usually reinforced concrete, steel, or treated timber) are driven deep into the seabed to provide stability.
- Flooring and Decking - A raised deck made of treated wood, bamboo, or composite planks is built on the foundation piles to form the strong base floor of the villa, keeping it elevated above water.
- Roofing & Walls - Lightweight walls of bamboo, timber, or eco-panels and a thatched or sheeted roof are built to provide protection, natural ventilation, and a traditional aesthetic while withstanding marine weather.
- Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC - Plumbing lines supply fresh water from shore, electrical power is provided through solar panels or underwater cables, and natural ventilation is prioritized with minimal HVAC systems for comfort.
- Waste management - Eco-friendly septic systems or pump-back systems are used.
- Interior & Exterior Finishes - Locally crafted wooden and bamboo furniture, coir décor, and natural textures are used inside, while the exterior blends with the water landscape using earthy colors and eco-friendly materials.
- Access Pathways & Connectivity - Wooden boardwalks, floating walkways, or small boats connect the water villa to the shore, ensuring safe and scenic access in all weather conditions.
- Safety & Sustainability Measures - Life jackets, railings, non-slip decks, and fire safety systems ensure security, while solar power, rainwater harvesting, and eco-friendly materials promote sustainable and responsible construction.
- Maintenance Planning - Regular inspection of piles, decks, and roofing with timely waterproofing, anti-corrosion, and termite treatments ensures durability and long-term safety of the water villa.
Community's Economic Development (CED)
The process of building water villas—not just for luxury tourism, but as a community-based livelihood project—can significantly boost local economic activity. Here's how:
- Employment & Skill Development
- Use of Local Materials and Crafts
- Boost to Tourism-Based Income
- Environmental Conservation Jobs
- Infrastructure Development
Architecture / Engineering / Construction (AEC)
ARCHITECTURE
- Site orientation: Sunlight, breeze, tides, and views.
- Cultural influence: Thatched roofs, natural materials, local motifs.
- Functionality: Open layouts, private decks, sea-facing rooms.
- Sustainability: Use of renewable energy, minimal seabed disruption.
ENGINEERING
Structural Engineering:
- Pile foundations: Steel, concrete, or treated timber piles are driven into the seabed for stability.
- Load calculations: Consideration for waves, tides, wind, and occupancy.
- Corrosion resistance: Use of marine-grade materials and coatings.
Civil Engineering:
- Access infrastructure: Walkways, piers, and jetties.
- Wastewater management: Eco-friendly systems to avoid polluting the water.
- Stormwater planning: Design for overflow and drainage.
MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing):
- Rainwater harvesting and filtration. (future scope)
- Compact plumbing layouts with marine-safe discharge systems.
- LED and sensor lighting for energy efficiency.
CONSTRUCTION
Pre-Construction:
- Seabed survey: To assess soil condition and coral presence.
- Local permits: Environmental and coastal zone clearances.
On-Site Construction:
- Foundation installation: Driven piles or floating base structures.
- Roofing: Thatch or metal roofing, depending on climate.
- Decking: Slip-proof, treated wood or composite for durability.
Finishing:
- Interior fit-outs with local, handcrafted furniture.
Affordable Design for Community Growth
- The interiors of these water villas are designed to use locally sourced wood for furniture — beds, stools, tables, and cabinets — crafted by local artisans. This reduces costs by avoiding industrial imports.
- Hay or thatch roofs are used not just for aesthetics, but for thermal comfort and resource savings. They act as natural insulators, cutting down the need for mechanical cooling.
- By using regionally available materials and encouraging community-based labor, the water villa model transforms into a self-sustaining ecosystem.
Initial Concept & Layout Sketching




- Visualize the resort layout: water villas, pathways, central pool, landscape, etc.
- Lightly mark grid lines with a pencil for proportion and alignment.
- Mark walls, decks, and rooflines clearly.
- Subdivide each villa into zones: bedroom, bathroom, lounge, and deck.
- Draw walkways connecting each villa to the main resort area.
- Insert furniture symbols, windows, doors, staircases, etc.
- Add room labels, directional arrow (North), and dimension lines.
- Include a legend for symbols (e.g., doors, windows, trees).
Exterior of the Resort








- The structure is crafted using white sunboard .
- It has a symmetric cloverleaf layout — a large central section with three rounded pods or extensions connected around it.
- The center is a wide, irregular shape with slightly curved edges — this forms the core of the resort.
- It appears elevated and well-supported to ensure balance.
- Attached to the central unit are three equally spaced, semi-cylindrical sections — representing individual resort pods or rooms.
- The front section features a rectangular cutout, which is the doorway or entrance to the main lobby or common area.
- Two vertical column-like strips on either side of the entrance add definition and framing, mimicking pillars or structural beams.
- The edges are neatly aligned and fixed, showing clean craftsmanship with minimal gaps.
Adding Foundation



- Rectangular strips of sunboard are cut precisely, all having the same height for uniform elevation.
- Each strip is carefully aligned and placed on base of the existing base walls or outlines of the villa layout.
- A glue gun is used to firmly fix these strips to the surface to ensure they remain stable and upright.
- Strips are spaced evenly and symmetrically across the model to maintain the architectural balance.
- This height addition forms the foundation for the structue.
Making Stairs




- Two vertical support pieces of sunboard are placed parallel to each other. These act as sidewalls for holding the step.
- A rectangular sunboard strip (the stair tread) is being positioned horizontally between the two sidewalls. This forms the first visible step.
- Vertical rectangular sunboard pieces have been attached to the front and side faces of each step to give a neat and finished block-like appearance.
- The edges and corners are aligned carefully to ensure a clean look.
The Walls and the Pillars





- The primary enclosure consists of a neatly bent curved sunboard wall that follows a semi-circular path.
- It provides the outer boundary to the structure.
- Made from strips joined edge-to-edge to retain a smooth arc.
- Several straight vertical walls divide the internal space into different compartments.
- These walls serve both as structural supports and layout separators.
Table and Chairs Making








- For Chair Cut a circular seat from 3mm thick sunboard.
- For the backrest, cut a semi-circular or curved strip from sunboard.
- Slightly curve the backrest using gentle pressure to fit ergonomically.
- Cut 3 or 4 bamboo sticks for the legs.
- Fix them in a slanted manner under the seat using glue, spaced evenly for balance.
- For table Cut a larger sunboard circle than the chair seat and smoothen edges for a cleaner finish.
- Cut 3 equal-length bamboo sticks and Glue them underneath the tabletop.
Adding Textures to Walls and Floor







- Measure the wall and floor areas accurately and cut the textured paper to the exact size.
- Make sure the sunboard surface is clean and smooth so the textured paper sticks evenly without any bubbles.
- Apply glue evenly over the area where the textured paper will be placed.
- Carefully place the cut paper onto the surface and press gently from the center outward to avoid air bubbles.
- Allow the glue to dry completely so the textured paper bonds firmly, giving a realistic and elegant finish to the villa's interior surfaces.
Dinning Table and Chairs




- For Chairs cut sunboard into identical backrest shapes with a curved top.
- Cut square pieces for the seats.
- Use glue to attach the backrest vertically to the back edge of the seat square.
- Cut 4 equal lengths of wooden sticks (e.g., bamboo skewers or dowels) for each chair.
- Slightly slant them outwards for a realistic look.
- Fix the legs under the seat square with strong glue. Ensure balance and stability.
- Cut a rectangular sunboard or foam board piece for the tabletop.
- Cut four equal bamboo or wooden sticks.
- Connect the legs at the base with horizontal bamboo sticks to form a supportive rectangular frame.
Making a Sofa Using Sunboard and Wooden Sticks




- Take a piece of sunboard and cut it into a rectangular shape for the sofa seat base.
- Cut another piece of sunboard for the backrest, slightly smaller in height.
- Cut two small rectangular pieces of sunboard for the armrests on both sides of the sofa.
- Fix the armrest pieces on each side of the base to form the sofa structure.
- Cut small wooden sticks (like ice cream sticks or thin dowels) to act as legs.
Basin Creation With Sunboard and GI






- Decide the size and shape of the basin (round, oval, or rectangular).
- Mark the dimensions on a sunboard sheet for accuracy.
- Cut and make a round basin shape.
- Paint the basin to look like real.
- Take GI wire and bend it which will eventually look like a tap.
- Attach it with the basin.
Shower Making



- Two rectangular pieces are used as the base.
- Bent GI wires are inserted vertically into the base and then curved outward at the top to form the shower arm structure.
- Small rectangular pieces of sunboard are attached to the bent ends of the rods. These act as the showerheads.
- The entire structure, including the rods and base, is painted with silver or metallic grey color to give it a realistic metallic appearance.
The Bed Making With Pillows and Cover













- Cut a circular piece of thin foam to act as the base cushion of the bed.
- Place it on a square piece of fabric.
- Fold the extra fabric over the edges of the foam, sticking it neatly at the back.
- Cut a slightly larger rectangular strip of fabric.
- Fold and layer it over half of the round cushion to mimic a blanket or bed cover.
- Cut small foam squares for pillows.
- Wrap them with small rectangular fabric pieces, using hot glue to fix the edges.
- Press gently to give a soft pillow look.
- Place the two small pillows neatly on the top side of the bed cushion.
Sofa Cushion





- Cut a rectangular piece of thick sunboard or cardboard for the sofa base.
- Cut two small triangular or rectangular sunboard pieces for the side armrests.
- Attach them securely to each side of the sofa base using glue.
- Use bamboo sticks as legs. Cut them evenly and glue them firmly to the bottom four corners of the base.
- Cut a foam piece to fit the base dimensions.
- Wrap it in white textured fabric and secure the ends underneath using glue.
- Cut another foam piece slightly taller and thinner than the seat.
- Cover it with the same fabric and glue it upright on the rear edge of the base for support.
Kitchen, Dinining and Lobby Interior












- Artworks and painting frames are mounted in the lobby, common areas and bedrooms to give an aesthetic.
- Bathroom furnitures are fixed.
- Kitchen's cupboard fixed.
- Dining table & chaires are placed.
- Pleated window-curtains are fixed.
- Lobby/common space furnitures (sofas and coffee tables) are placed.
- A shelf placed in the lobby-front.
- 2 wordrobes placed on each entrant of the bedrooms.
Secondary Foundation of the Resort








- It is made using cut sunboard, designed with a wood-textured surface to mimic timber decking.
- The base is shaped like a clover, with four circular projections to support the villa’s pods.
- The builder is positioning the central raised deck structure, which will serve as the main circulation core.
- This raised piece has openings for walkways and supports for the rooms that surround it.
Swimming Pool Creation



- Decide the size, shape, and location of the pool in the villa’s deck or backyard area.
- Mark the pool outline on the base surface using a pencil and scale.
- Add a pool textured paper inside the pool to feel realistic.
- Then add a poolside stairs with GI wire and bamboo sticks.
Backyard Partition



- Measure the dimensions of the backyard partition area on your villa model and mark the height and width on the sunboard sheet using a scale and pencil.
- Using a sharp cutter, carefully cut out the partition panels according to the marked measurements. Ensure smooth, straight edges for a neat finish.
- If the partition design includes openings, slits, or decorative cut-outs, mark them on the panels and cut them out carefully.
- Join the cut panels vertically using bond to create the partition wall.
- This wall will help make the two backyards private for 2 families.
Bedrooms and Washooms Interior Layout






The villa design includes four distinct circular pods, each serving a specific function:
- Left Pod: Private bedroom with a bed, side furniture, and windows opening to water views.
- Right Pod: Another private bedroom with similar furnishing and panoramic water views.
- Front Pod (center): Spacious area with dining table and lounge seating for social gatherings.
- Rear Pod: Partioned into two Washroom areas connected with each bedrooms
- Surrounding wooden-textured deck offers outdoor seating, sunbathing areas, and direct interaction with the water.
- Beds, tables, chairs, and washroom fixtures are carefully placed, creating a balance between functionality and luxury.
- Each pod has large openings toward the water, ensuring stunning views and natural light throughout.
Base Structure of the Water Villa






- The villa is built on a raised deck to stand above the water surface, ensuring safety and preventing water contact with the structure.
- Multiple vertical pillars are placed underneath the platform. These pillars act as the primary support system, evenly distributing the load of the villa.
- The pillars are anchored firmly to simulate a stable foundation, keeping the structure steady over the water.
- This solid foundation acts as the base for constructing the rest of the water villa, allowing luxurious rooms and facilities to be built securely on top.
Fencing





- Decide where the fence will be placed
- Make holes where the bamboo sticks will be placed
- Use straight bamboo sticks of equal length for vertical posts.
- Wrap the Jute rope tightly in a simple loop pattern at each vertical sticks.
- Trim extra rope ends.
Poolside Lounger With Side Table






- Four bamboo sticks form the legs, providing a raised structure.
- Two horizontal bamboo rods on either side serve as armrests, adding a natural aesthetic.
- A flat rectangular sunboard sheet forms the seat and backrest surface.
- The backrest is slightly angled, allowing a reclined position for comfort.
- The side table is small, elegant, and functional, designed using sunboard for both the pedestal base and the top.
Thatch Roof Making





- Begin with a conical or sloped roof framework made of thin bamboo sticks or wooden dowels.
- These sticks act as rafters, providing support and shape to the roof.
- Use brownish textured craft paper, to mimic the appearance of dried thatch.
- Cut these materials into small, rectangular strips (slightly overlapping in length).
- Start from the bottom edge of the roof.
- Glue each strip horizontally, making sure it slightly overhangs the edge.
- Overlap the next strip over the previous one so no gaps show—this overlapping method creates a shingle-like pattern that looks like natural thatching.
- Make sure the thatched roof overhangs slightly beyond the villa walls for an authentic style.
Final




















This model demonstrates how a carefully planned structure, elevated over water, can serve as a sustainable and aesthetic solution for tourism and economic growth.
- The design uses four interconnected circular pods, each with a specific function, ensuring privacy while maintaining a strong visual connection with the water.
- Locally inspired elements, such as thatched roofs and wooden textures, pay homage to Kerala’s traditional architectural style, while modern materials give it a contemporary appeal.
- The model highlights eco-tourism potential, offering a luxurious yet culturally rooted experience that encourages visitors to engage with the local environment.
- By creating such villas, local communities benefit from job creation, small-scale businesses, and cultural preservation, turning architecture into a catalyst for social and economic upliftment.
In essence, this water villa project represents a fusion of tradition, innovation, and sustainability, demonstrating how thoughtful design can promote both luxury tourism and community development in serene locations like Kumarakom, Kerala.