Nalukettu, Ettukettu and Pathinarukettu

The traditional architecture is typically a rectangular structure where four halls are joined together with a central courtyard open to the sky. The four halls on the sides are named Vadakkini (northern block), Padinjattini (western block), Kizhakkini (eastern block) and Thekkini (southern block).

Fig.a Zoning based on Vasthu Shasthra

 

The layout of these homes is simple, and catered to the dwelling of the large number of people usually part of a tharavaadu. Ettukettu (eight halled with two central courtyards) or Pathinarukettu (sixteen halled with four central courtyards) are the more elaborate forms of the same architecture.

Fig.b Paliam Museum- A Nalukettu

Fig.c Kaitheri- Ettukettu

Fig.d Maranat Mana- Pathinarukettu