Down to Earth

A mouth-watering spread that's an ode to India's rustic charm

Lotus. The word always conjures up images of serene waterscapes that surprise and enchant you along road trips across the country. Sometimes humbly tucked away in catchments by footbridges and sometimes gloriously in bloom amidst lush mountains. The flower, a symbol of peace, enlightenment and renewal, is just as synonymous with India's bucolic snapshots as with its spiritual culture. Set against a dramatic backlit, black, steel filigree screen and an exposed red-brick wall, this space spells the modern-rustic look perfectly. The lotus, which features here, is so significant in Indian mythology and culture, and blends seamlessly with the new-age grey tone of the ceramic ware. Every piece reminds one of an old world set in today's context. The amber of the t-light holders, the emerald green of the water glasses, the bright pinks of the plates, napkins and cushions, and the terracottas and creams of the soft furnishings have all been picked from a countryside palette. A unique addition to this composition is a goldfish bowl. It not only lends to the orange tones, but also adds some live magic to this setting.

Gilt Trip

An elegant nook that's luxurious in its gold overtones yet warm in its choice of natural materials

Be it the regal marble inlay synonymous with Mughal architecture or the intricate stone and wood carvings of ancient temples, India's architectural heritage is an inspiring treasure trove of craftsmanship. The entryway turned nook featured here, is an ode to India's ancient crafts. For starters, the old Burma teak backdrop features a curlicue inlay pattern that substitutes a traditional material (marble) and motif (kingfisher) with the more hardy brass and the swallow. Taking off from the overall design sensibility of the inlay panelling, is a primarily wood and brass/gold palette that witnesses traditional Indian styles or materials in contemporary forms. Warm, dependable wood appears as the straight-backed chair and a set of chests — both, featuring delicate carvings. Tones of gold and brass (often considered auspicious materials, employed in the making of idols and puja accessories) are seen in an antique-brass candelabrum, a couple of matte-finished vases, dainty bowls, as well as a natural-fibre, boat-shaped t-light-holder. Bringing in a dash of colour are pairs of throw cushions and coffee mugs, once again, with modern Indian imagery. Anchoring it all is a shaggy rug whose fawn tones blend perfectly with this plush scene.

Mood Indigo

Connect with your inner self in this oasis of calm — an introverted yet radiant lounge

Deep blue, indigo and violet often evoke a mystical, contemplative mood. Incidentally, these hues are associated with Ajna, the third eye chakra, which according to Hinduism and Buddhism, enables one to attain a higher level of conscience when activated. Soaked in shades of blue, this lounge exudes a calm, welcoming aura that coaxes you to let go of the trivialities of everyday living and find inner peace. Furthering the restful ambience, are cosy cushions in a flourish of nature-inspired motifs — the lotus, semul and palm. The nature theme extends to the pièce de résistance of this scene; i.e. the striking paisley-patterned feature wall in Bisazza mosaics, as well as the teak-mocha chair upholstered in floral-printed vintage vinyl. To break the blue-beige monotony, the reddish orange cushions and trays have been included. No meditative setting is complete without the classic icon of enlightenment, the Buddha. The blue and beige carved Buddhas add to the drama, sitting atop an all-mirror console. And much like every journey of self-discovery culminates in divine light, this composition is symbolically tied together by wire mesh lamps and a particularly charming rendition of the traditional lantern.

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