From murals that depict the romantic poetry of Changampuzha Krishna Pillai to the iconic Chinese nets, the interiors of the proposed Kochi Metro Rail stations will be rich in local cultural references.
A group of architects, from the Indian Institute of Architects (Kochi Chapter), who has been entrusted with developing the interior design would place the recommendations for incorporating such cultural references, before the Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL). The structural designing of the stations, which will maintain uniformity, are being done by Egis India Consulting, the primary design consultants of the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC).
“The discussions are on a preliminary stage. As per the plan, the Indian Institute of Architects will form a group of select architects. They will come up with an interior design that will give due focus to the rich Kerala culture and tradition. We have already held several meetings with the architects and a plan will be chalked out once the consultants prepare the station design,” Elias George, MD, KMRL told Express.
Since the traditional nalukettu style is not feasible, the structural design will not be in a typical Kerala style. Egis will finalise the design according to the space and location of the stations.
“The colour and themes for each station will be finalised by the architects based on the structural design,” he said.
The interiors of the stations could however be designed in a way that reflects the Kerala model of architecture.
“We have already put forth suggestions for designing the windows on traditional wooden frames. Along with that, the murals based on Kochi-based themes can adorn the walls of stations. The cultural references according to the specialty of each area, the prominent personalities and inspirational events can also be incorporated,” said Architect Gopakumar.