Indian festivals are a rich tapestry of colors, traditions, and rituals deeply rooted in our cultural heritage. These celebrations bring families together and offer an opportunity to transform our homes into vibrant, welcoming spaces that reflect the joyous spirit of the season. Whether it's Diwali, Holi, Durga Puja, or Christmas, preparing your home for these festivals can be a delightful experience. Here are ten creative tips to help you infuse your home with festive cheer.

 

Declutter and Spark Joy
Before you dive into decorating, give your home a thorough clean. A clutter-free environment looks better and allows positive energy to flow freely. Clear out unnecessary items, tidy up each room, and scrub surfaces to create a fresh slate for your festive decor. A clean home sets the stage for an inviting and organised space.

 

Pick Your Palette Like a Pro
Selecting a cohesive color scheme and theme that aligns with the festival will help create a harmonious look throughout your home. Traditional festival colors, such as gold, silver, red, green, yellow, and blue, can add vibrancy and authenticity to your decorations. Stick to a palette that resonates with the festival to ensure a unified and visually appealing design.

 

Light it up
Lighting is essential in setting a festive ambiance. Fairy lights, lanterns, and candles add warmth and charm to your home. Strategically place these lights around key decor pieces, windows, and doorways. The soft, twinkling glow will enhance the festive atmosphere and create a welcoming environment for guests.

 

Luxe Fabrics, Luxe Feels
Swap out your everyday textiles for more festive and luxurious options. Opt for rich fabrics like silk or velvet for tablecloths, cushion covers, and curtains. These elements instantly elevate the look of your home and add a touch of elegance and celebration.

 

Indian festivals are a rich tapestry of colors, traditions, and rituals deeply rooted in our cultural heritage. These celebrations bring families together and offer an opportunity to transform our homes into vibrant, welcoming spaces that reflect the joyous spirit of the season. Whether it's Diwali, Holi, Durga Puja, or Christmas, preparing your home for these festivals can be a delightful experience. Here are ten creative tips to help you infuse your home with festive cheer.

 

Declutter and Spark Joy

Before you dive into decorating, give your home a thorough clean. A clutter-free environment looks better and allows positive energy to flow freely. Clear out unnecessary items, tidy up each room, and scrub surfaces to create a fresh slate for your festive decor. A clean home sets the stage for an inviting and organised space.

 

Blossom into the Festive Spirit

Bring life and color into your home with fresh flowers and plants. Traditional floral arrangements or simple vases with seasonal blooms can significantly impact. Flowers not only add visual appeal but also contribute to the overall festive spirit of your home.

 

Accessorise with Tradition

Incorporate decorative accessories to enhance the festive feel. Use decorative bowls filled with colorful ornaments, candles, or potpourri. Traditional diyas, rangoli designs, or wreaths can enrich the festive atmosphere and add a personal touch.

 

Bring life and color into your home with fresh flowers and plants. Traditional floral arrangements or simple vases with seasonal blooms can significantly impact. Flowers not only add visual appeal but also contribute to the overall festive spirit of your home.

 

Accessorizing shelves with festive décor can instantly bring a celebratory vibe to a space, like here in Terra, Gwalior.

 

Feast in Style
Make your dining table a focal point by paying attention to its decor. Use elegant tableware, festive centerpieces, and themed napkins to create a stunning table setting. A beautifully set table looks impressive and makes meals celebratory.

 

Add Personal Touch
Add personal touches to your decor to make it feel more meaningful. Incorporate family photos, handmade crafts, or heirloom pieces that resonate with the festival. These elements add warmth and a sense of personal connection, making your home’s festive decor unique and heartfelt.

 

Scent-sational or fragrance fest
Scents like incense, scented candles, or essential oil diffusers with fragrances that complement the festival theme, such as sandalwood, jasmine, rose, or cinnamon, should be leveraged. The right scent can elevate the ambiance and make the festive experience more immersive.

 

Spruce Up Your Outdoor Space
Extend the festive spirit outside of your home as well. Hang marigold flowers, place lanterns on the porch, and light diyas to create a welcoming entrance. Seasonal outdoor decorations help set the tone for guests before they even step inside and add to the overall festive charm of your home.

Transform outdoor spaces with greenery and thoughtful d to create a lively, inviting atmosphere, as exemplified in Terra, Gwalior.

 

Transform your home into a festive retreat that radiates warmth and joy. With a touch of thoughtful decor, you can create a space that's not only visually stunning but also inviting and cozy. Embrace the season with decorations that make your home a true reflection of celebration. Enjoy every moment of decorating, and let your space become a haven for the season.

A city, no matter how old or new, is enveloped in culture—the culture of its people and its places. Architecture sets the tone for this cultural heritage to blossom and become a city's identity. Lisbon and Vienna are two such cities, carrying historical heritage through centuries of existence.

 

Both cities, rich in architectural heritage, serve as a source of inspiration for many. The architecture of both, times, old and new, invites travelling and exploration. Travels filled with architectural and artistic marvels are nothing short of a creative extravaganza. For designers, the discoveries of these architectural gems are not just historical and cultural narratives but also lessons that can be implemented into practice for years to come.

 

Vienna: UNESCO's World Cultural Heritage Center

With three eras leaving a mark on the city's landscape, Vienna’s rich design makes it a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Center—Baroque, Gothic, and the Rinngsttasse, along which many infamous structures were constructed to replace the city walls.

 

• Historical Palaces
  Vienna’s cultural heritage is reflected in its architecture at Schönbrunn Palace, a seventeenth-century palace designed by architect Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach in the Baroque style. The former hunting lodge went through many phases of renovation to finally become the summer home for the imperial family. The gardens also contain features like fountains, avenues, and sculptures.

Schönbrunn Palace, a magnificent embodiment of Vienna's Baroque architecture, captures the grandeur of a bygone era.

 

The exterior of the present-day palace is painted in what is famously named “Schönbrunn Yellow”, while the interiors have ceiling stucco decoration and white and gold-painted wooden panelling. The decor includes landscape paintings on canvas, silk tapestries and lilac upholstered furniture.

 

A must-visit for architects, the Albertina Museum, a residential palace converted into an art museum, houses an architectural collection of over 40,0000 plans, studies and models. The styles span across Baroque, Renaissance and late Gothic periods with works by Adolf Loos, Otto Wagner, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, and Zaha Hadid

Standing beside a Picasso painting at the Albertina Museum, immersed in the rich architectural heritage of this historic residential palace-turned-exhibit.

 

• Iconic Landmarks
  To offset this history with more modern construction, the oldest tramline through the historic streets brings back echoes of olden times in Vienna. The 180km of tram tracks take passengers through some of the imperial city's most iconic landmarks, making stops at the Ringstrasse and the Kai and the famous districts Josefstadt and Leopoldstadt.

Amidst modern construction, Vienna's oldest tramline winds through historic streets, bridging the past and the present.

 

Not too far from Vienna, the lush landscape and ancient structures that are present-day landmarks line the streets of Salzburg. Today the Mozart Museum in Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, is one of the most visited. The year-round museum invites visitors to tour through rooms and everyday artefacts of the maestro’s life. The apartment is a display room for Mozart’s violin and clavichord, along with letters, portraits and memorabilia. Taking tourists through an all-engaging experience of the music genius’ life, Salzburg is a glimpse into the past.

Salzburg’s lush landscapes and ancient landmarks remain among the city's most visited attractions

 

Lisbon: Contemporary Reimagination

In Lisbon, the cobbled streets and boat rides on the city’s waters offer similar experiences—one where the enduring old city stands out even today amongst more modern structures like the MAAT. The Museum of Art Architecture and Technology, sited along the banks of the Tagus in Belém, was designed by the renowned Amanda Levete.

The Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology, located along the Tagus River in Belém, stands as a modern cultural landmark.

 

With its contemporary design, the structure is a modern break in an otherwise time-worn city. True to its name, the MAAT brings together art, architecture and technology at the edge of land and water. The building itself allows people to walk over, under, and through it, which is an interactive experience for the people.

Offsetting the city's historic charm, the contemporary design of the musuem creates a bold modern contrast.

 

The journey through Lisbon and Vienna is an exploration of old and new; grandeur and innovation, and timelessness and modernity. Through galleries of art, architecture and culture, the trip deepens a designer's understanding and appreciation for heritage giving them new perspectives and lessons in the role of culture in design.

The arrival of the monsoon season brings a refreshing change from the scorching summer heat. The rhythmic pitter-patter of rain, the earthy aroma of petrichor, and the promise of cooler temperatures offer a welcome respite. However, for our homes, the monsoon can also pose challenges with increased wind and rain. But with strategic interior design solutions, one can monsoon-proof their homes. Here's a comprehensive guide to fortifying one’s home's interior:

 

A Multi-Faceted Approach to Water Management

The following measures can be implemented to prevent water ingress, protect against moisture damage, and optimize indoor air quality during high humidity periods such as the monsoon season.

Ensure Tight Door and Window Closures |Photography: Noughts and Crosses

 

Ensure Tight Door and Window Closures: Conduct a thorough inspection of all doors and windows to guarantee a tight seal upon closure. This meticulous approach prevents rainwater from seeping in through even the smallest gaps.
Install Rubber Gaskets: Add rubber gaskets around door jambs for a watertight seal.
Seal Gaps: Use foam sealants or silicone to fill gaps around windows and doors for extra protection. This additional layer of protection further safeguards your home from unwanted water intrusion.

 

Protecting Against Moisture Damage

Implementing strategies is essential to safeguard various surfaces and materials from the harmful effects of excess humidity and water exposure. This approach ensures the longevity and pristine condition of furniture, fabrics, and other vulnerable items.

Protecting Against Moisture Damage | Photography: Noughts and Crosses

 

Apply Nano Coatings: Use nanocoating on furniture, countertops, and other surfaces to repel water and prevent stains.
Use Stain-Resistant Sprays: Protect upholstery and curtains with high-quality stain-resistant sprays to prevent watermarks.
Seal Stone Surfaces: Apply sealants to stone countertops and flooring to reduce water absorption.
Install Awnings: Awnings over windows and doors deflect rainwater, reducing the risk of leaks and adding aesthetic appeal.

 

Optimizing Indoor Air Quality

Optimizing indoor air quality involves implementing measures to ensure a clean, healthy, and comfortable living environment. This process includes controlling humidity levels, enhancing ventilation, and reducing airborne pollutants.

Optimising Indoor Air Quality | Photography: Amit Mehra

 

Use a Dehumidifier: Control indoor humidity with a dehumidifier to prevent mold and maintain comfort.
Install Exhaust Fans: Ensure proper ventilation in kitchens and bathrooms with exhaust fans to remove moisture-laden air.

 

Enhancing Monsoon Comfort

Enhancing Monsoon Comfort through Decor | Photography: Amit Mehra

 

Create a Cosy Ambiance: Add throw blankets, soft rugs, and cushions for a warm and inviting indoor atmosphere.
Opt for Warm Lighting: Use lamps and candles to create a relaxing environment.
Diffuse Refreshing Aromas: Use essential oils with scents like lemongrass or eucalyptus to combat damp odours.

 

By using these simple tips and adding a bit of creativity, one can make their home cozy and stylish during the monsoon season. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the sound of the rain while appreciating its beauty and refreshment.

Finding the perfect floor for your building goes beyond aesthetics. It's a crucial decision that impacts functionality, durability, and budget. This guide explores popular flooring options for various spaces in commercial and residential settings, considering key factors of Durability, Aesthetics, and Cost.

Caption: Photography: Noughts & Crosses  | Project: Aromasphere

Commercial Flooring Solutions:

Consider marble, tiles, or concrete floors in offices and retail areas, where durability and design flexibility are key. They're long-lasting and offer design possibilities through patterns and combinations.

Granite, marble, or large-format tiles are ideal choices for high-traffic areas like malls and hospitals. These natural stones offer durability and a sophisticated look.

Functionality reigns supreme in industrial settings. Epoxy finishes and vinyl floors are popular selections due to their quick installation, budget-friendly nature, and easy maintenance.

Caption: Photography: Noughts & Crosses  | Project: Gwalior House

Residential Flooring Solutions:

• Marble: Marble is popular in residences due to its strength and longevity. However, laying marble in apartments during renovations can be challenging due to the removal of existing flooring and base preparation.
• Tile: Tile is a popular choice for homes because it's durable, water-resistant, and easy to clean. It comes in a wide variety of colours and patterns, so you can find a style that complements your home décor.
• Hardwood: Hardwood flooring adds warmth and beauty to any room. It's a durable choice that can last for decades with proper care. However, hardwood can be susceptible to scratches and dents.
• Engineered Wood: Engineered wood is a more affordable alternative to solid hardwood. It has a real wood veneer over a plywood core, making it more stable and moisture-resistant than solid hardwood.
• Laminate: Laminate flooring is a budget-friendly option that can mimic the look of wood or tile. It's easy to clean and maintain, but it can be scratched and damaged more easily than hardwood or tile.

Caption: Photography: Noughts & Crosses  | Project: Gwalior House

Adding a Touch of Luxury:

Hardwood or engineered wood flooring can elevate offices or retail spaces. While pricier, they add warmth and richness. Combine wood with marble for an even more luxurious feel, but remember that marble and hardwood require more maintenance.

Cost Considerations:

• Marble: A beautiful and durable choice, but consider the additional cost of polishing and finishing.
• Hardwood Floors: Offer long-lasting beauty but require a higher initial investment.
• Epoxy & Concrete Floors: A cost-effective option depending on thickness and use.
• Terrazzo Tiles: A more affordable alternative to genuine terrazzo flooring with a similar aesthetic.
• Ceramic Tiles: A budget-friendly option with a wide range of styles.

As the temperatures rise, maintaining a cool and comfortable home becomes a priority. However, beating the heat does not mean sacrificing style. Every designer should be responsible for creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also comfortable, especially during the summer.

Photography: Noughts & Crosses | Project: Treetops, New Delhi

Here are some expert tips from our Creative Director, Devika Khosla, to keep your home naturally cool while ensuring it remains vibrant and inviting.

• Embrace Light and Airy Fabrics

Swap out heavy winter fabrics for lighter options. Linen, cotton, and sheer drapes allow for better air circulation and add a breezy feel to your rooms. Opt for light-coloured fabrics to reflect heat rather than absorb it.

 

Photography: Noughts & Crosses | Soft natural fabrics with lighter earthy tones give our project, Terra a cooler edge over Gwalior’s summer heat.

Comfort is key during hot summer nights. Swap out heavy comforters for lightweight throws and choose breathable fabrics for bed sheets and pillowcases, as they allow for better airflow, keeping you cool and comfortable throughout the night.

• Maximise Natural Ventilation

Strategically open windows and doors to create cross-ventilation. Use screen doors to keep insects out while letting fresh air in. Ceiling fans are also a great addition; they use less energy than air conditioning and keep the air moving, providing a cooling effect.

 

Photography: Amit Mehra | Our project Sattva House boasts ample natural ventilation and light, helping moderate the indoor temperature sustainably. 

• Cool Tones and Nature-Inspired Colors

Incorporate cool tones like blues, greens, and whites into your décor. These colours evoke a sense of calm and coolness and keep your space fresh and vibrant. Nature-inspired shades can help you feel connected to the outdoors, which is particularly soothing during the warmer months.

Photography: Noughts & Crosses | Our project, The Valley Of Dreams, is the perfect example showing the comfort that comes with mixing natural materials and cool shades. 

According to our Creative Director, Devika Khosla, lighter colours can also help keep your home cooler. Soft pastels or neutral tones reflect sunlight, making your space airy and cooler. Sheer curtains crafted from lightweight materials like linen or cotton diffuse harsh sunlight while maintaining a bright and inviting atmosphere.

• Indoor Plants for a Breath of Fresh Air

Indoor plants are more than just decorative elements. Plants naturally cool the air through transpiration. They also improve indoor air quality and add a touch of nature. They act as natural air purifiers, removing toxins and balancing humidity levels in your home.

Photography: Noughts & Crosses | Indoor and outdoor plants can significantly cool down your home, as seen in our project, Terra, Gwalior.

Consider placing ferns, spider plants, or peace lilies in your living areas. These plants thrive in indirect sunlight and help keep the environment cool.

• Cool Flooring Choices

Consider swapping out heavy rugs for lighter, breathable materials like jute or sisal. These natural fibres are not only durable and stylish but also help keep your floors cool. If you have hardwood or tile floors, they can also help in maintaining a lower temperature in your home.

 

Photography: Noughts & Crosses | Tiles and natural materials like wood help maintain a comfortable temperature in our project Rue 32.

By implementing these tips, you can create a naturally cool and vibrant living space that keeps you comfortable throughout the season. Remember, a few strategic changes can make a significant difference in how your home feels and looks. Enjoy the summer months with a refreshed, stylish, and cool interior!

Interiors have the power to tell captivating stories, and what better narrative to explore than the rich tapestry of Indian heritage? India's history is a mosaic of diverse cultures, traditions, and artistic expressions spanning centuries, and integrating these elements into modern interiors can create spaces that resonate with depth and soul.

Our Creative Director, Devika Khosla, believes that every interior space has the potential to tell a unique story, weaving together elements of history, culture, and heritage. Here are some TWI-tips to integrate historical narratives into your home decor!

 

Fenesta and Tostem have emerged as frontrunners in the dynamic realm of architectural design, revolutionising our approach to windows with their cutting-edge aluminium and uPVC offerings.

Versatility in Modern Aesthetics

Aluminium windows, showcased in projects like Casa K and Terra, embody modern sophistication. Their versatility enables them to adapt effortlessly to diverse architectural styles, be it the sleek lines of a contemporary structure or the timeless charm of a more traditional design. The aesthetic appeal of these windows goes hand in hand with their robust nature, offering visual delight and structural integrity.

Fenesta and Tostem's commitment to customisation provides architects and designers with a valuable tool to tailor windows to specific project requirements. The ability to seamlessly integrate these windows into diverse spaces, ensuring perfect harmony with the overall design language, underscores their versatility. This flexibility empowers designers to meet a project's functional needs and enhance its aesthetic appeal, contributing to a holistic and cohesive design vision.

 

• Embracing Traditional Architecture

One of the most striking features of Indian heritage is its architecture. From the intricate carvings of ancient temples to the graceful arches of Mughal palaces, there is a wealth of inspiration to draw from.

In our design projects, we often incorporate elements such as jaali partitions, handwoven textiles, or antique brass accents to evoke a sense of timeless elegance. These architectural motifs add visual interest and connect the space to India's architectural legacy.

 

• Celebrating Textiles and Handicrafts

Indian textiles and handicrafts are celebrated worldwide for their beauty and craftsmanship.

Each piece tells a story of skilled artisans and age-old techniques passed down through generations. Handcrafted textiles such as silk brocades, ikat weaves, and block-printed fabrics add depth and authenticity to the narrative and infuse warmth and character into interiors, transforming spaces into living artworks.

• Exploring Color Palettes Inspired by Indian Heritage

Earthy tones like terracotta, mustard, and indigo reflect the hues of the Indian terrain, while jewel tones like emerald green and royal blue invoke Indian royalty.

The colour palette of Indian heritage is as diverse as the country itself. Rich, bold tones like ruby red, sapphire blue, and royal green evoke a sense of opulence and warmth. We love integrating these hues into our designs through carefully curated upholstery, draperies, and accent walls.

• Integrating Art and Iconography

Art has always been integral to Indian culture, often reflecting mythological themes or daily life. From traditional paintings to modern interpretations of traditional art, curated selection of artworks that celebrate India's diverse artistic traditions can be used to spruce up spaces. You can also showcase handcrafted pottery, brassware, and folk art pieces that add character and soul. These artworks serve as focal points, sparking conversations and adding depth to the interior narrative.

By integrating Indian art forms such as Madhubani paintings, Tanjore art, or miniature paintings, we bring narratives to life within our designs.

Indian heritage is a treasure trove of design motifs, colours, and craftsmanship that have withstood the test of time. From the intricate carvings of Rajasthan's havelis to the vibrant Madhubani paintings of Bihar, each region boasts its own distinct design language. Infusing interiors with Indian heritage is not merely about aesthetics but honouring a legacy of craftsmanship and creativity. By incorporating elements like traditional wooden jharokhas, handwoven textiles, or antique brass accents, we bring an aura of timeless elegance into modern interiors.

Choosing the right window plays a significant role in determining a space's overall aesthetic appeal. Windows can either enhance or detract from the design style and ambience you're trying to achieve. The type of window you choose can also impact the functionality and comfort of your space. Properly sized and positioned windows can optimise natural light, ventilation, and views, making your interiors feel more spacious, airy, and inviting.

Windows from Fenesta and Tostem have become indispensable elements in our Creative Director, Devika Khosla’s design toolkit.

 

Fenesta and Tostem have emerged as frontrunners in the dynamic realm of architectural design, revolutionising our approach to windows with their cutting-edge aluminium and uPVC offerings.

Versatility in Modern Aesthetics

Aluminium windows, showcased in projects like Casa K and Terra, embody modern sophistication. Their versatility enables them to adapt effortlessly to diverse architectural styles, be it the sleek lines of a contemporary structure or the timeless charm of a more traditional design. The aesthetic appeal of these windows goes hand in hand with their robust nature, offering visual delight and structural integrity.

Fenesta and Tostem's commitment to customisation provides architects and designers with a valuable tool to tailor windows to specific project requirements. The ability to seamlessly integrate these windows into diverse spaces, ensuring perfect harmony with the overall design language, underscores their versatility. This flexibility empowers designers to meet a project's functional needs and enhance its aesthetic appeal, contributing to a holistic and cohesive design vision.

 

Functional Durable Facades

On the flip side, uPVC windows are silent protectors, as witnessed in projects such as Treetops and Ridge View. Beyond their aesthetic contribution, these windows provide superior noise insulation, creating a serene interior environment shielded from external disturbances. Moreover, their exceptional weather resilience ensures they stand as stalwart guardians against the elements, enhancing the durability and reliability of the structures they grace.

Low maintenance is a defining characteristic of both aluminium and uPVC windows. The weather-resistant properties of uPVC ensure that these windows retain their pristine appearance over time, resisting the wear and tear inflicted by the elements. Similarly, the corrosion-resistant nature of aluminium adds to its longevity, making it a material that not only withstands the test of time but also maintains its original allure. This attribute is particularly significant in architectural projects where durability and minimal upkeep are paramount.

 

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

One remarkable feature of aluminium and uPVC windows is their commendable energy efficiency. This aligns seamlessly with the contemporary commitment to sustainability and environmental consciousness. By significantly reducing the reliance on artificial heating or cooling mechanisms, these windows contribute to creating eco-friendly spaces that are aesthetically pleasing and environmentally responsible.

 

Overall, these windows from Fenesta and Tostem transcend the conventional role of windows, evolving into design statements that perfectly harmonise elegance, sustainability, and functionality. As we continue to explore innovative solutions, these windows stand as a testament to the transformative power of marrying style with substance.

Selecting windows that align with your design preferences and lifestyle can contribute to your overall satisfaction and well-being in your home. Whether you prioritise aesthetics, functionality, energy efficiency, or a combination of factors, choosing the right windows can enhance both the visual appeal and livability of your interiors, creating a space that feels comfortable, welcoming, and uniquely yours.

 

In a world inundated with glossy magazines showcasing pristine, picture-perfect homes, there lies a design ethos that beckons us to embrace imperfection and simplicity. Enter Wabi Sabi, a Japanese philosophy that celebrates the beauty of impermanence, imperfection, and authenticity.

At its core, embracing Wabi Sabi in home decor is about stripping away excess and embracing materials' raw, organic beauty. This 'simplistic' design ethos offers a refreshing departure from the pressure of achieving flawlessness and fosters a sense of tranquillity and harmony within our living spaces. Here are 4 ways to integrate this Japanese philosophy in your home interiors- The TWI way. 

• Asymmetry 

Favouring asymmetry over strict symmetry adds visual interest and reflects the organic irregularities found in nature. Choose minimalist furniture with clean lines and simple silhouettes, allowing each piece to stand out without overwhelming the space.

 

• Authenticity 

One of the fundamental principles of Wabi Sabi is to integrate nature into our living spaces. Bring the outdoors in by incorporating plants, woven fabrics, and natural textures like stone or clay. These elements add visual appeal and evoke a sense of serenity and connection to the natural world.

 

Using natural materials like wood uniquely in this earthy bedroom from our project, Treetops, New Delhi.

According to our Creative Director Devika Khosla, you can start by incorporating raw natural materials like unfinished wood, which exudes a sense of warmth and authenticity. Embrace surfaces that exhibit a bit of imperfection, such as unfinished wood or weathered stone, adding depth and character to your space.

• Simplicity

Creating a Wabi Sabi-inspired home also means leaving room for simplicity and mindfulness. Integrate handmade or artisanal pieces that showcase craftsmanship and individuality, celebrating the uniqueness of each item rather than aiming for uniformity.

In keeping with the Wabi Sabi aesthetic, opt for quiet, earthy colours that evoke a sense of calm and tranquillity.

Calm, earthy tones used in the Sattva House Formal Living Area exude natural elegance and tranquillity.

• Personalisation

For those seeking to infuse their homes with a touch of cultural richness, consider fusing Wabi Sabi simplicity with Indian flair by enhancing the indoor ambience with soft lighting and aromatic touches like incense or herbs. Infuse Indian charm by incorporating aged furniture, handmade fabrics, and creative accents that reflect the vibrant tapestry of Indian culture. Showcase heirloom pieces and decor with a rich history, infusing your home design with stories and character.

Combining Indian culture with modern minimalism in the Gaurang Store with balanced use of cultural elements, natural materials and minimalistic furniture. 

Making your home Wabi Sabi is about embracing simplicity, imperfection, and authenticity. By using simple materials, natural looks, calm colours, and a mix of cultural styles in your home interiors, you can create a space that feels inviting, serene, and truly beautiful—a sanctuary from the chaos of the modern world.

Wall decor extends beyond aesthetics and focuses on injecting life, personality, and character into your living space. Decorating your walls is a powerful way to give your house a space lift, transforming it from a mere structure into a personalized and aesthetically pleasing home. Here are some tips:

• Express Your Style and Create a Focus Point: Choose artwork, color schemes, and decor elements that resonate with your individual taste for your house design. A statement piece, such as a large artwork, an accent wall, or a gallery arrangement, draws the eye and sets the tone for the entire space. This focal point becomes a visual anchor, making the room feel more intentional and well-designed.

• Play with Colour, Patterns and Textures: Wall decor is an excellent way to introduce color and patterns into your home styling. Whether through painted accent walls, wallpaper, or artwork, you can experiment with different hues and designs to create a vibrant and lively atmosphere. This can be particularly effective in rooms with neutral or monochromatic color schemes, or for bedroom design. Incorporating textured elements like tapestries, woven hangings, or three-dimensional art pieces can make a room feel more inviting and visually dynamic.

R-615 Residence showcases personalised pieces on the walls

• Improve Acoustics: Soft materials like fabric wall hangings or acoustic panels can absorb sound, reducing echoes and creating a more comfortable and enjoyable living environment.

• Maximize Small Spaces: In smaller rooms, well-chosen wall decor can create the illusion of more space. Mirrors, in particular, reflect light and make a room feel larger, and create a bespoke designer home environment. Additionally, using vertical storage solutions and wall-mounted shelves keeps the floor clear, making the space feel more open and organized.

Decorating your walls in home styling is a transformative process that enhances the aesthetics and functionality of your living space. From expressing your personal style to improving acoustics and creating focal points, wall decor plays a crucial role in giving your house a space lift and turning it into a place you're proud to call home!

Our homes are more than just physical structures; they are a canvas on which we paint the colours of our personalities, dreams, and memories. Embracing a colorful home extends beyond incorporating vibrant hues; it's a journey of self-expression and creating a space that resonates with who you are. So what defines your living space as uniquely yours? It's the personal touches you add, a way to let your individuality and self-expression stand out.

Your home is your personal sanctuary, and here are some tips on transforming your home interiors into a characterful sanctum.

• Understand your personality: Begin by understanding your own personality traits, preferences, and style. Are you energetic, and outgoing, or prefer a more tranquil and serene atmosphere? Your home should align with your inner self, so take some time to reflect on what colours evoke positive emotions and resonate with your character.

Contrasting dichotomy of colours and textures with the contemporary bar unit in our project, Rue 32, New Delhi. 

• Accentuate with Bold Colors: While a dominant colour palette provides a foundation, don't shy away from incorporating bold and contrasting colours as accents. For example, the contrasting dichotomy of colours and textures used for the contemporary bar unit in our project, Rue 32, New Delhi (above), adds much-needed character and personalised touch to the perfect leisure space for hosting guests. According to our Creative Director Devika Khosla, pastels and beige, although trending, recently lack the boldness and uniqueness that brighter colours bring, which might also be the reason why they’re losing their appeal. These shades, however, accentuate any bright pops of colour paired with them.

• Express Yourself Through Art and Decor: Artwork and decor are powerful tools for self-expression. Choose home styling pieces that resonate with your interests, experiences, and aspirations. Whether it's a gallery wall of family photos, handmade crafts, or unique finds from your travels, infusing your home with personal artefacts creates a narrative that reflects your journey. These walls weave stories and memories into the very fabric of the home, fostering connections through shared experiences.

The living area of ‘Valley of Dreams’ Kasauli is peppered with memorabilia and art, adding personality and individuality to the space.

• Play with Patterns and Textures: Top interior designers believe in diversifying your home's visual appeal by incorporating various patterns and textures. Experiment with different furnishing fabrics, wallpapers, and textures to add depth and interest to your spaces. Mixing patterns can be a playful way to inject personality without overwhelming the senses.
• Consider the Psychology of Colors: Each colour has its own psychological impact. Understanding the emotional associations of colour palettes can help you create a home environment that fosters the desired atmosphere. Closely introspect what your favourite places make you feel and what the tangible aspects of the space are that make you feel that way. For example, blues and greens are often associated with calmness and tranquillity, while reds and yellows evoke energy and warmth.
• Embrace Change and Experiment: Creating a colourful home is an evolving process. Don't be afraid to experiment with new colours and rearrange furniture to keep the energy flowing. Embrace change as your tastes and preferences evolve, allowing your home to grow alongside you.