Spatial Transformations of Traditional Dwellings :A Case of Kuttichira, Kerala
- Vol.15(3), July-Sep
- New Delhi Institute of Town Planners 2018
- 13-32p.
Kuttichira settlements are an integral part of Calicut city in Kerala. Uncontrolled urbanization, changes in land use, growing density of new built-up areas and socio-economic changes have brought rapid transformations to the historic fabric of Kuttichira settlements. As a result, traditional structures known as tharavadus are neglected during development and are gradually changing into isolated elements. However, despite limitations, the domestic spaces of the buildings are transforming mainly for economic reasons and increase in the number of family members as a survival strategy of residents. This paper attempts to assess these economic activities in the domestic spaces made within the context of potential of settlements to accommodate new functions, by using heritage conservation as a tool for urban regeneration in the existing fabric and outlines planned interventions to protect the traditional dwellings from decay and provide visual exposure in the present urban fabric.