Interiors

Home décor do’s for 2021

It is not an understatement to say that 2020 has been a year quite unlike any other. Given the fact that most of us were confined indoors, our home definitely became our sanctuary. A place where we felt comfortable and safe and one that served more purposes than even before, home was the ultimate haven. It was therefore not a surprise when Pantone announced not one but two complimentary shades ‘Ultimate Gray’ and ‘Illuminating’ as the colours of 2021. It was only the second time in 22 years that Pantone chose two stand-alone but supportive colours that represent hope, stability, optimism and upliftment – virtues that are much needed as we march ahead into 2021. Rashmi Gopal Rao lists some trends that might help bring your home alive this new year…

Focus on Sustainability

As we waded through quarantine and lockdown in 2020, the concepts of ‘reduce’, ‘recycle’ and ‘reuse’ became intrinsic to our daily lives. The sustainable way of living and the usage of sustainable materials and products is the need of the hour. Natural textures, nature inspired tones and plenty of greenery is here to stay. “Getting nature in homes through natural lighting, indoor plants, the use of materials like cane and bamboo, earthy colour palettes, warm natural textures and patterns all of which can turn your home into a sanctuary is a global trend,” says Nikita Bansal, Head of Design, Orange tree. Tactile, textured fabrics such as boucle, organic cotton and linen serve to comfort and cocoon. In addition, these soft yet resilient fabrics are suitable for intensive use.

Tones that resonate nature like nuances of blues, greens or that of terra-cotta will be in focus. “Rustic tones, forest-inspired green and ocean-hued blue in your living spaces in the form of drapes, curtains, covers and rugs will be in vogue. Botanical wallpapers, vertical gardens and potted plants along with hand painted murals will instantly form a connection with outdoor spaces and play an important role in providing aesthetic comfort and creating a reassuring environment” says Gita Ramanan, CEO & Co-founder, Design Café. Creating green corners is a great way to purify indoor air and bring the clarity and calm of nature. Adding a plant on the desk, hanging a planter on the room window, or creating a small kitchen garden are simple ways to bring in vibrance and colour.

Multi-functional spaces

The work-from-home culture has had a tremendous impact on home design and home interiors. It has been the norm to take classes from our kitchens, build gyms in our bedrooms and add workspaces to our living rooms. “This year will see us using spaces innovatively in order to make the best of the existing resources. It will be all about durable, multipurpose and hyper-functional furniture, clutter-free spaces and vibrant yet calming colour,” says Parikshat Hemrajani, co-founder of Hipcouch, Interior Design Company.

As more time is spent at home than in the office, functionality, comfort and clean spaces will rule the roost. People will think beyond the conventional study desk and try to create more exclusive work stations based on their needs and requirements. Multifunctional tables, storage units and ergonomic chairs are products that will be in demand.

Lighting

Lighting will again be a focal point in 2021 as it is a key element in home décor. Be it the home office, study table, kitchen island or the living space, effective lighting that is a balance of aesthetics and functionality will be in demand. Portable lights, ceiling lights, vibrant colours and patterns will gain popularity as more people look to improve their work setting or do up their children’s study rooms. Geometric shapes, rustic designs and DIYs will be some of the trends to look out for. “Apart from DIY themes, the move towards cleaner cuts, minimal aesthetics and simple silhouettes will be in vogue” says Varuna Chand, CEO & Founder – Vpop.

Décor cues using Pantone colours

Yellow and grey compliment a wide range of materials like fabric, wood and metal. It not only enhances design but gives a unique twist to the usual scheme of things. As they say Home is where the heart is and the kitchen is where we all are! A combination of grey and yellow can work wonders to make your kitchen welcoming. Yellow cabinets with a cement dado or grey cabinets and a grey island with a yellow backsplash, are just some of the exciting options. A splash of yellow or a grey wall with bright yellow artwork can make your entryway look inviting. In the kids’ room you can have yellow as the primary colour to brighten up the space while adding specks of grey which helps inflict a sense of curiosity in young minds. A grey sofa in the living room, a yellow accent wall in the bedroom, yellow and grey planters and lighting accessories are yet other ideas to incorporate a sense of warmth and cheer into your homes.

February 1, 2021

#2021, #Colours, #HomeDecor, #Interiors

Embracing Organic Interior Trends in India: A Return to Nature at Home

In an age of hyperconnectivity and urban chaos, Indian homeowners are increasingly turning inward — quite literally — to create organic, nature-inspired interiors that soothe the senses and connect with tradition. Whether it’s the rustic charm of mud-plastered walls, the calming presence of indoor plants, or the earthy textures of jute and cane, the shift towards organic design in India is both aesthetic and deeply rooted in cultural heritage. This movement isn’t just about trends — it’s about sustainability, well-being, and reconnecting with indigenous materials. What Are Organic Interiors? Organic interior design is about incorporating natural elements, textures, colours, and materials into your living space. It emphasises sustainability, biophilic design, and the use of locally-sourced, eco-friendly materials. In India, this translates beautifully through the use of: Why Organic Design Makes Sense in the Indian Context India’s rich heritage in vernacular architecture and handcrafted decor makes it a fertile ground for the organic trend. From the thatched roofs of Kerala to mud homes of Gujarat, Indian living has long embraced natural design, long before it became a global trend. Top Organic Interior Trends in India and How to Incorporate Them 1. Earthy Colour Palettes Use shades like terracotta, olive green, sand, ochre, and clay to evoke a grounded, warm feel. Tip: Use lime-washed walls or clay-based paints for an authentic and toxin-free finish. 2. Sustainable Furniture Choose reclaimed wood, bamboo, rattan, or handcrafted cane furniture. Tip: Brands like Baro Design (Mumbai) and Phool Patti (Lucknow) offer handcrafted, eco-conscious furniture made by Indian artisans. 3. Indoor Plants as Living Décor Biophilic design is central to organic interiors. Plants improve air quality and aesthetics. Tip: Try low-maintenance plants like snake plant, money plant, or areca palm. Place them in terracotta pots or brass planters for a traditional touch. 4. Handmade and Textured Fabrics

Interiors

The Rise of Earth Tones and Organic Textures in India: Where Nature Meets Design

Across Indian homes, wardrobes, and stores, there’s a noticeable shift away from synthetic gloss and mass production toward something deeper, calmer, and more rooted. Earth tones and organic textures have emerged as the leading design trend of the moment. But in India, this isn’t just a passing aesthetic, it’s a return to heritage. Whether it’s the handwoven texture of khadi, the terracotta of rural homes, or the ochre walls of Rajasthan’s palaces, India has always had a strong connection to natural materials and earthy palettes. Today’s movement is a modern reimagining of that age-old wisdom. Hashtag Magazine captures the trend. Why Are Earth Tones and Organic Textures Trending in India? Cultural familiarity: India’s architecture, crafts, and textiles have always drawn from nature — red earth, turmeric yellow, indigo, stone, jute, and clay. In Indian Interior Design Natural materials and earthy palettes are finding their way into urban homes, boutique resorts, and even co-working spaces. Indian Brands Leading the Way: Freedom Tree (Mumbai): Known for its bold yet earthy colour palettes, Freedom Tree combines handcrafted Indian sensibilities with contemporary design — think teak wood furniture, hand-printed textiles, and terracotta accents. In Indian Fashion India’s fashion scene is embracing natural fabrics and subdued colours — a counter to the once-dominant trend of bling and embellishment. Top Indian Brands Embracing Earthy Aesthetics: · Anavila: Known for her linen saris in muted tones, Anavila is synonymous with earthy elegance. Her palette includes pale greys, olive greens, and natural browns — woven with stories of craft revival.· Nicobar: This contemporary lifestyle brand offers earthy wardrobe basics, travel gear, and home décor with Indian soul. Their use of khadi, cotton, and bamboo blends modern cuts with a grounded colour scheme.· Okhai: Backed by Tata Chemicals Society for Rural Development, Okhai supports rural artisans and offers naturally

Interiors

Vertical Gardening- A Green Oasis for Your Home

Do you crave the tranquillity of nature but lack the square footage for a sprawling garden? Well, fret no more! Vertical gardening has emerged as a revolutionary way to transform your living space into a lush green paradise. Dhanush Kumar writes about the Vertical, a space-saving marvel that allows you to cultivate a vibrant haven, breathing life into your walls and enhancing your overall well-being. The Benefits of Vertical Gardens Planting the seeds of your Vertical Paradise How to Maintain Your Vertical Garden? Conclusion Vertical gardens are more than just a trendy decor element; they are a testament to green living. Incorporating this innovative concept into your home will create a breath taking visual masterpiece and haven that promotes well-being and fosters a connection with nature.

Interiors

Elevate Your Space: Top Living Room Design Ideas

The living room is the heart of any home in interior design—a space where aesthetics meet functionality and comfort coexist with style. As a leading design studio committed to redefining modern luxury, Suren D’souza, Principal Architect of Deksha Design Studio, is delighted to share cutting-edge living room design ideas that encapsulate our commitment to innovation, comfort, and visual allure. 1. Seamless Open Concept: Breaking down barriers between spaces is a hallmark of contemporary design. Consider an open-concept living room that seamlessly integrates with the dining area and kitchen. This design fosters an airy, expansive feel, promoting fluidity and enhancing the overall sense of space. 2. Nature-Inspired Interiors: The ongoing trend of bringing the outdoors inside continues to captivate. Embrace biophilic design by incorporating natural elements. Think organic textures, indoor plants, and large windows that invite ample natural light. This connects your living space to nature and creates a serene and calming atmosphere. 3. Multifunctional Furniture: In a world where adaptability is key, opt for multifunctional furniture. Invest in stylish pieces for multiple purposes, such as a coffee table with hidden storage or a sofa that transforms into a sleeper. This not only maximizes space but also adds an element of practical luxury to your living room. 4. Statement Lighting: Illuminate your living space with statement lighting fixtures. Pendant lights, chandeliers, or even uniquely designed floor lamps can be functional and aesthetic focal points. Lighting is a powerful tool that helps set and enhance the overall ambiance of your living room. 5. Artistic Wall Treatments: Move beyond traditional paint and explore artistic wall treatments. Textured wallpapers, accent walls with bold patterns, or even curated gallery walls can add visual interest and make a striking statement. Let your walls become a canvas for personal expression. 6. Tech-Integrated Comfort: Modern luxury embraces technology