In Kerala, secular and religious architecture have many similarities in construction methods, use of materials, craftsmanship and in the idea of sanctity and reverence for the built form. With the influences of Hindu, Christian and Muslim communities, residential building is a rich blend of simple to highly expressive that represents a regional architectural language. The upper caste Brahmin houses are elaborate. The Naiyar and Nambudiri ancestral houses are a large courtyard-type often with two stories. The number of courtyards used in a single house is significant from the viewpoint of social status.
Wood is used to frame the entire building where the roof design dictates the form.
Resting on a stone foundation, wood framing forms the walls. Sometimes the wall has sliding wooden panel doors that allow the building to be opened up to the verandah. Details of joinery are worked out in advance to ensure error-free assembly of the frame. The main components include wall plates or multi-piece beams, rafters, cross ties and through ties, dormers, overhangs, doors and partitions. Miki Desai is an architect in Ahmedabad, India.