Malaivalmakkal was founded in the Palani Hills by the custodians of a 3-acre landscape with the intention of creating dignified livelihood opportunities for the indigenous community rooted in this region. The initiative engaged the design team at Ananas to develop a clear conceptual framework for the land, anchored in a zoning strategy that supports both ecological restoration and community driven programs.

At the heart of Malaivalmakkal’s vision is the revival of traditional forest-based food systems, the establishment of fair and community-governed income models, and the gradual regeneration of native Shola ecosystems. Together, these efforts strengthen cultural continuity while deepening the community’s relationship with land, food, and forest.

Initial phases centered on detailed landscape study, collaborative engagement with community members, and the development of integrated zoning strategies that bring together livelihood, culture, and ecological stewardship. Water held a special focus in the design phase, to ensure water self-sufficiency. The long-term goals focused on building resilient futures rooted in local knowledge and biodiversity.

This collaboration also led to a parallel architectural project, including the design of a residence, an artist residency studio, and a shared community space, detailed below.