The Muthoot Facade Story

The Muthoot Facade

In 2024 we were approached by Kriya Architects with a vision to redesign the facade of the iconic Muthoot Pappachan Towers in the heart of Kochi.

Built in the 1980s, the building was among the first in the area to feature an aluminium composite panel facade, representing a modern shift in commercial architecture at the time. Over the years however ACP became extremely common and the building gradually lost its distinct character. Maintenance also became a challenge since ACP surfaces are difficult to repaint and restore.

The new vision was to transform the building using a parametric GFRC jaali facade. The idea was not just to change the surface but to allow the building to breathe. The open pattern creates privacy for interior spaces while maintaining visual connectivity with the outside. It also filters sunlight throughout the day, creating a softer relationship between the building and the street.

The design soon began to stand out within the surrounding urban context. Instead of the typical commercial glass and ACP appearance, the facade introduced a sculptural identity that felt both contemporary and crafted.

The parametric ovals across the facade were inspired by fingerprints, symbolising the millions of people who trust the Muthoot brand. Bringing this concept to life required fifteen different panel designs working together as a continuous composition.

The project covered nearly forty thousand square feet of facade area using GFRC panels. Curved panels at the corners added sophistication and helped the building flow naturally from one side to another.

The result is a building that offers a strong visual experience from every angle. Pedestrians see changing patterns of light and shadow, drivers experience the rhythm of the facade, and even from the Kochi Metro above the full geometry of the design becomes visible.