Kerala has a distinctive architectural style which has evolved through years. It is a graceful mix of simplicity and elegance and a blend of local style and foreign influences. Like the style of dressing the architecture is also designed and adapted to suite Kerala’s climate and culture.
Elegant, ethnic, traditional, rustic and simple. This is Kerala’s architectural style. Opulence, extravagance and luxury have no place in the art of architecture seen and practiced in Kerala. The buildings-palaces, temples, museums, religious houses-have an old-world charm to it, a timeless feel, a regal look and a story of tradition. Most constructions see extensive use of wood, stone, bricks and granite.

The influence of non Kerala style can be mostly seen in the architectural styles of temples churches, mosques  and palaces. One can see structures which bear influence of Dravidian, Chinese and Tibetan styles in Kerala. Though the evolution of Kerala style of architecture closely follows the temple architecture priority and preference has been given to functionality.
Traditional houses known as ‘Nalukettu’ and ‘Ettukettu’ were built in accordance with scientific architectural principles illustrated in ‘Manushyalaya Chandrika‘ an ancient work which deals with the ‘vasthu sastra’ of domestic architecture. This style of construction was meant for convenience, as the joint family system was prevalent then.

Temples in Kerala have a distinct architectural style. They are among the most ancient monuments of the state and are architectural and historical treasure troves. The earliest known temples are the rock cut ones. But many temples have their walls made of wood. The Sri Padmanabha Swamy Temple at Thiruvananthapuram with its lofty tower and rising tiers is an impressive structure and a supreme specimen of Dravidian style in Kerala. Temples built in the indigenous style are characterized by low elevation. In the earlier days, Christians also modelled their churches after temples. But the Portuguese influence changed it. A massive arch and stained glass windows became the important features of churches. Later other styles -like Roman- influenced the construction of churches.

Mosque architecture drew inspiration from Persia and Turkey. But the traditional Kerala mosque is a simple two storied building with tiled roof and a central hall meant for prayers.The Kerala-style or architecture is restricted to heritage sites and monuments, while the new constructions take on the new ‘classy and contemporary’ look. The modern day Malayali seems to have abandoned these traditional styles and turned to modern day concrete structures. Apartment complexes have become so popular among upper middle class where as the upper class has gone for luxury villas and farmhouse type villas.