The predominant features of Kerala structures are roofs and overhanging eaves all born out of climatic factors. Caste and social status also determined the nature of the dwelling places. However, the post-Independence period saw two distinctive trends of architecture developing in the State. It was during the early Seventies that reinforced cement concrete (RCC) started making its entry in a big way into the residential sector here. RCC arrived here during the 50s, but it was used only for Government buildings. Another interesting trend is the increasing concern with principles of Vaastu among the people. During the Seventies and Eighties, nobody was concerned about Vaastu, but now the scene has changed. The concept of Apartments Tripunithura is _base_d on Vaastu Shastra. Earlier, nobody even knew what a family room was. The architect had to explain. The basic idea of a house was one/two/three bedrooms, a drawing-cum-dining room, kitchen/bath, etc. Now, people want more, like a place for the entire family to spend time together, not the formal drawing room for guests. The SEZ is all set to house businesses of varied industry streams with a large pool of skilled and talented workforce backed by a strong infrastructure backbone.

Interestingly, most of these elements can be called as `traditionally' belonging to Kerala. Though the traditional houses had low `thinnas' running around the house, the deep veranda was a typical colonial introduction, with the purpose of reducing the impact of sun during the summer months and for keeping the monsoon rain out. Likewise, the colonial builders, especially the Dutch and the Portuguese, introduced high ceilings and heavy beams. The palaces, official buildings and residences of officials, all were constructed in that blend of colonial and local architecture. The exquisite red-oxide flooring was also developed in that period _base_d on the Italian fresco method.