Kerala is pioneering a design revolution. In 2025 the state unveiled the “Design by Future” policy, the first of its kind in India. This government-led initiative (led by the Public Works Department) aims to infuse sustainability, human-centric thinking and local culture into every building. As Tourism Minister P. A. Riyas notes, the policy will make public assets more sustainable, aesthetically appealing and user-friendly. Uniquely, it even guides private homeowners on thoughtful and visionary designs for their houses.

The big idea? Every new project – from roads and bridges to offices and living rooms – must respect Kerala’s unique climate and heritage. In practice, the policy encourages:

Sustainable materials – use eco-friendly wood, bamboo, coir, recycled metal, and low-VOC finishes.

Local craftsmanship – revive Kerala’s artisanship (teak carving, mural art, handloom textiles) in modern spaces.

Climate-responsive design – orient buildings for light and breeze, with high ceilings and ventilation to handle humidity.

Modular and digital innovation – employ prefabricated, factory-built components and smart technologies for precision and flexibility.

This marks a turning point: design is no longer an afterthought but a driver of quality living in Kerala.

Interior Design Kerala: What the Policy Means for You

What does this policy mean for homeowners? Simply put, better quality and healthier homes. Interiors must now do more than look good – they must live well. Expect stricter quality checks on materials and finishings. For example, Kerala’s climate requires moisture-resistant choices: designers recommend marine-grade plywood, treated teak, or metal cabinetry to withstand our rains. Open layouts and large windows will be favored for cross-ventilation and natural light. Even paint will have to handle humidity (think anti-mold formulas). In short, home interiors will be durable, eco-friendly and climate-smart.

And what about businesses? Offices and shops will also benefit from the shift. Companies will gain healthier, more energy-efficient workplaces. Kerala already enforces an Energy Conservation Code (ECBC) for large commercial buildings, and the new design policy builds on that by rewarding green practices and efficient layouts. Studies show the payoff: a World Green Building Council report found “overwhelming evidence” that well-designed offices (with good air, daylight and ergonomics) boost staff wellbeing and productivity. In fact, workplaces with clean air, natural light and adaptable layouts produce “healthier, happier and more motivated” employees. In short, smart office design can make your team more productive – and cut long-term energy bills.

THOMAR Interiors: Leading Turnkey Interior Design in Kochi

At THOMAR Interiors, we’ve been preparing for this shift for years. Our full-service (turnkey) designs already follow many new policy goals. For example:

Factory-finished modular components: We build cabinets, wardrobes and wall units in our factory with digital precision. This means fewer on-site errors and almost zero material waste – studies show modular construction can cut waste by up to 90%. Precision manufacturing also means high build quality (and fewer surprises on installation day).

Climate-smart materials: We use eco-friendly and humid-proof materials. Think solid teak and rosewood (which are naturally durable in Kerala) and finishes like bamboo, coir and treated plywood. These choices resist rot and mold in monsoons, yet keep interiors cool and fresh.

Cultural-modern aesthetics: Our designs blend Kerala’s heritage with contemporary simplicity. You might see a carved wooden jali panel or brass lamp paired with sleek neutral cabinetry. We also include traditional elements like laterite or mural art alongside modern textures – a fusion that meets both local charm and global style.

Strong guarantees: We back our work with a 10-year warranty on craftsmanship and materials. This reflects our confidence that by using high-quality, climate-suited materials, your interiors will last for a decade or more.

In Kochi and around Kerala, our turnkey interior design service handles everything – from 3D design to installation – so you get a project that truly meets the new standards. Whether it’s a cozy home or an office suite, THOMAR Interiors is ready to deliver a space that is functional, sustainable and on-trend.

Modern Home Design Kerala: Trends to Watch

Kerala’s new policy will amplify trends already under way in home design. Here are some emerging themes homeowners are embracing:

Natural & Sustainable: Wood, stone, clay and plant fibers are in. Locally-sourced timber (like teak and rosewood) and materials such as bamboo, cane and coir bring warmth and eco-credentials. Look for reused or reclaimed wood flooring and furniture, organic fabrics and non-toxic paints that keep the home healthy.

Open and Airy: Maximizing light and breeze is key. Open floor plans, high ceilings, wide windows and even nadumuttam (inner courtyards) connect indoor and outdoor. This biophilic touch (bringing nature inside) is trendy and smart: it reduces energy use and improves well-being.

Tech-Enabled Comfort: Modern Kerala homes are adding smart features. Expect LED lighting with dimmers and sensors, automation (smart thermostats, home automation apps) and energy-efficient fans or A/C. These upgrades save power and let you tailor comfort easily.

Minimalist Fusion: Clean lines and uncluttered layouts dominate. But “minimalism” in Kerala still honors character: a single Kathakali mask on a plain wall, or a potted areca palm in a white lobby, go a long way. Neutral palettes with one accent wall or a statement light fixture keep things calm yet personal.

All these trends echo the design policy goals: homes that are eco-smart, climate-fit and culturally rich. In other words, modern home design Kerala is about balance – using technology and minimalism, while celebrating Kerala’s colour and craftsmanship.

How to Prepare Your Home and Office

Ready to join the design revolution? Here are steps any homeowner or business can take now:

Talk sustainability with your designer. Ask about locally-sourced, green materials (bamboo, reclaimed wood, natural stone) and durable finishes that last a decade. Check for low-VOC paints and waterproofing details.

Choose modular solutions. Prefab kitchen, closets or wall units (built off-site) will fit exactly and generate almost no waste. Factory-cut panels and fittings mean fewer mistakes and leftovers.

Blend tradition with innovation. Incorporate Kerala motifs (like wooden fretwork, mural art or brass accents) into a modern layout. A handloom cushion or a coir mat adds heritage style without sacrificing function. This fusion is a hallmark of the new modern home design in Kerala.

Invest in smart tech. Consider LED lighting, sensor switches and energy-saving appliances. Good ventilation or a small heat-recovery system can cut A/C bills. Even simple steps – like ventilated false ceilings or UV-filtering window films – make your space more climate-friendly.

By being proactive, you’ll get a home or office that not only looks great but also saves energy, enhances comfort and holds its value in the long run.

Conclusion

Kerala’s 2026 design policy is more than a headline – it’s a call to rethink how we live and work. Interiors will be greener, more thoughtful and truly “Kerala style.” As this design revolution gathers pace, 2026 will stand out as the year our homes and offices got a smart makeover.

Partnering with an experienced firm like THOMAR Interiors means you’re not just following trends – you’re setting them. Our team knows how to blend the new policy’s principles into beautiful, practical spaces. Together, we can create interiors that are future-ready, sustainable and uniquely Keralite.

Whether you dream of a serene modern home or a sleek office, start the conversation today. The future of interior design in Kerala is here – and it’s exciting!