Acquired and thoughtfully reimagined over several years, Nakshathra Mana was transformed into a private four-bedroom retreat for its current owners—a place designed for rest, quiet moments and simply doing nothing. At the same time, it evolved into a meaningful space where they could reconnect with their roots and spend time with family.
The owners, Sneha Iype and Prakash Verma, founders of Nirvana Films, who live in Bengaluru, wanted an idyllic retreat that captured the essence of the Kerala they knew—welcoming villages, comforting food and a rich cultural blend.
After purchasing the unusually designed property from a noted Keralan photographer and flautist, several sections of the house had to be dismantled and rebuilt. Materials salvaged during the process were carefully repurposed to retain the home’s distinctive character. Old mud tiles were crushed into chips and used to preserve the main walls, encouraging the growth of moss that lends them a refreshing green finish. Wooden floor panels were reused in the attic, while rustic clay tiles with a slightly pitted, unfinished texture create a subtle yet luxurious atmosphere throughout the home.
Drawing inspiration from their travels, the homeowners added personal touches to the design. They sourced old-world style latches, knobs and curios from a Mumbai artisan. Artworks also play an important role, including paintings by local artist Sara Hussain and a series by Goan artist Richa Kashelkar, both reflecting the spirit of Kerala life.
Nature remains at the heart of the property. The moss-covered walls, lush garden, natural-water pool and a serene lily-pad pond all reinforce the home’s deep connection with the outdoors. To strengthen this relationship further, every room opens out to a walkout space, ensuring guests are always just a step away from nature.
