Karl,
the keeper.

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Karl Damschen, if you haven’t heard this name, keep reading. Born in Germany, he is an architect shuttling between Switzerland and Kerala, India. In 1976, Damschen embarked on a one-year caravan trip in India and Sri Lanka with his wife, exploring the unique architecture of these countries in detail. This was the beginning of a lasting relationship with India. And since then he has been spending several months every year in Kerala,  studying the art of traditional construction and woodwork techniques working with the highly skilled local carpenters.

What is fascinating is his perspective and personal take on architecture. It goes beyond just brick and mortar, the universal construct that's prevalent in today’s city development; for him it’s about preserving culture and heritage and adapting to the legacy of the place. His buildings are based on the climatic, historical and socio-cultural conditions of the place. influenced by the rich culture of India, he introduced carefully selected ornamentation into his architecture. All his projects are planned as an architectural unit that includes the interior and landscape design to ensure overall homogeneity.

Karl, he is a keeper of the culture and architectural heritage in the true sense. In an interview, the architect said:

"While working on the wooden houses and renovating the Jewish Synagogue in Kochi, I realized – like Charles Correa and Geoffrey Bawa – that our so-called modern architecture leads to a visual impoverishment of our cities. To oppose this tendency, architecture must find its roots in a country’s culture itself without running the risk of becoming a kind of Disney Land. What I aim at is a kind of timeless architecture which does not pay heed to contemporary trends, as they might not survive."

The landmark projects

Surya Samudra Beach Garden (now Niraamaya Retreats) Brunton Boatyard,  Fort Kochi.
And Taj Garden Retreat in Kumarakom, each of these celebrate Kerala’s craft traditions and coastal identity. He has also restored and reimagined key historical structures in Fort Kochi, such as the Old Harbour House, the Paradesi Synagogue clock tower, and cultural spaces like Kashi Art Gallery — preserving their character while giving them new life.

Olam and the tree house

Working with Karl has been an enriching experience, as he restored our half a century old property into Olam and the Treehouse at Rainforest, that has found its place amongst 9 amazing treehouses in India.