God In Design

Decorating with Blue and Green: Harmonious Bliss

2023-07-09T01:26:00.002+05:30

Colours play a pivotal role in setting the mood and ambience of a space.

Combining blue and green can create a harmonious and refreshing atmosphere, evoking a sense of tranquility and connection with nature.

Let us explore how to tastefully decorate with blue and green, specifically by mixing green printed or patterned elements with blue pottery and boxes.

Green Printed or Patterned Upholstery: Start by incorporating green printed or patterned upholstery into your space. Choose a comfortable armchair or sofa upholstered in a lush green fabric with subtle prints or patterns. This will serve as the focal point of the room, creating a vibrant base for the rest of your blue and green decor.

Masalaworks

Cushion: Enhance the visual appeal of your seating area by adding cushions in shades of blue and green. Opt for a mix of solid-colored cushions in varying shades of blue, along with cushions featuring green prints or patterns. This combination will add depth and interest to your seating arrangement while maintaining a cohesive color scheme.

From Internet

Table Cover: To tie the room together, select a table cover that blends blue and green seamlessly. Look for a tablecloth with a pattern that combines both colors or choose a solid-colored tablecloth in either blue or green and complement it with table runners or placemats in the opposite hue. This simple addition will bring a sense of balance and unity to your space.

Vase and Buddha Statue: Add an element of elegance and spirituality to your decor by incorporating a green vase filled with fresh blue flowers. This combination not only creates a stunning visual contrast but also symbolizes the harmonious connection between earth and water. To enhance the serene ambiance, place a small Buddha statue nearby, selecting one that features blue accents or is made from blue-hued material.

Images: Courtesy Internet

Blue Pottery and Boxes: Incorporate blue pottery and boxes as accent pieces throughout your space. Utilize decorative blue pots or vases to display potted green plants, creating a natural touch that complements the color scheme. Place blue-hued boxes on shelves or side tables to serve as both functional storage solutions and decorative items. These small touches will contribute to the overall harmony of the room.

Decorating with blue and green allows you to create a space that exudes tranquility and a connection to nature. By combining green and blue you can achieve a visually captivating and harmonious ambiance in your home. Remember to experiment with different shades and patterns to find the perfect balance and express your personal style.

Embrace Your 50s and Beyond with Positivity

2023-07-07T23:29:00.015+05:30

Next year I will complete 6 decades of my existence on this earth. I celebrated my birthday in the first week of June. So thought of penning what I think of reaching 59.

Our society always glorifies youth, especially for women, be it in life, in magazines, in media and now in all-encompassing social media.

          But you & I know of countless women, who are whole-heartedly embracing their late 50s with much grace & joy. They fully enjoy the associated perks of reaching a certain age and radiate a positive attitude towards life.

         Aging actually has quite a few benefits. With each passing year, our mind becomes more liberated, we are less bothered by others' comments and validation. We can ignore a lot of nonsense and can also protest or rebuke someone for their unacceptable behaviour.

          For many, as the fear of societal judgment diminishes or vanishes, they start reinventing themselves by pursuing new interests, hobbies and much more.

           Also as we age, we accumulate a wealth of experiences, knowledge and insights that shape our perspectives.

       Now, we invest in meaningful and authentic relations. We enjoy a few but genuine friends and appreciate the beauty of deep connections that stand the test of time.

           So let us embrace the journey of aging with open hearts and minds, and revel in the beauty of all the wonderful things that life has to offer us.

-Do cultivate positivity and look at the brighter side of each event.
-Take the power in your hand by making choices that you love and not dictated by others.
-And don't forget to express your Gratitude for all the good things & blessings in your life.

       Do let me know about your outlook on embracing your age.

#personalthought #personalthoughts #positivelife #positivelifestyle #positivity #positivityisthekey #positivityisachoice #gratitude #attitudeofgratitude #ageisanumber #aging #aginggracefully #agepositive#beyond50s#aginggracefully #ageandpositivity

Home Styling

2015-07-02T20:43:00.000+05:30

Hi, I am back after a while. Was missing this place a lot. But relocating to a new city and setting up my home, kept me preoccupied. Not yet fully settled though! But thought of doing a post on home decorating.

I often say that your space reflects your personality, your taste and sense of aesthetics. We do spend a lot of money on clothes, accessories, cosmetics, perfumes etc. Most of us can surely allocate some of our fund to buying some decor items; or you may pick up some souvenirs during your trips. Do look out for online stores. And of course, do not miss the sale/discount offers.

Uses of one or several trays on your tables, shelves or consoles will help your anchor your stuff. They will give neat look to the space. So bring out your decorative boxes, lamps, vases, bowls, books, plates and whatever you have and earn the wows of your friends and acquaintances. And don't forget to go through blogs and magazines to refresh your ideas. Take inspirations here:

Via bestfriendsforfrosting

Buddha statue, mother-of-pearl box, ceramic flower, lamps

Via Traditional Home

Get Inspired: Eclectic Rooms

2013-07-31T18:26:00.001+05:30

Some homes are worthy of getting a place in coffee table books. Each item is hand-picked, gorgeous and neatly showcased. We admire them from afar and also drool over them but they we feel conscious and overwhelmed by their opulence and grandeur.

Then there are homes that look well-lived and welcoming. You do not have to think twice before plonking on the sofa or sinking into the comfortable bed. They look inviting but not lousy or shabby. They also reflect the owner's love and passion for decorating with eclectic things minus the opulence. Here are some such spaces....

Home of Anahata Katkin

Anahata is a truely gifted person and has been influenced by different culture. Her parents had visited India and set up a meditation centre Ananda Marga where they taught meditattion. This was probably the beginning of her love affair with India. But she is a designers and entreprenuer and her home reflects a charm.

Her name has an Indian origin. Anahata (Sanskrit: अनाहत, Anāhata) means unhurt, unstruck and unbeaten. The word Ananhata usually is associated with a calm serene sound, void of violence. It is the fourth primary chakra according to the Hindu Yogic and Tantric (Shakta) traditions.

Anahata Katkin Pic courtesy: http://anahata.typepad.com/my_weblog/

In this picture the simple bed covers and throws used in the background caught my attention-- simple chic.

The bedroom is my favourite space in the house. So many patterns-- on the floor, on the blanket, cushions, curtains, pouf and the bedside cabinet. Very soul-enriching but understated elegance.

She has assimilated a global taste and passion for art is evident in every corner home. But her product designs are exuding strong Indian motifs and symbols.

Here are some items from her store: Papaya

Starlet Giclee

Tunic


Bags

Anahata in action!

Papaya bags

Other items from Papaya store

Anahata shops and collects during her travels; paints and shares her passion with the world through her blog and her outlet. She is the founding artist of PAPAYA!, PAPAYA! Living Boutique, and Leelah Clothing. You can sample her work and thoughts in her blog at anahata.typepad.

Via: bohemiantreehouse

and Anahata Katkin

Emma's bedroom

Another bedroom (of Emma @ marionhousebook) that I fell in love with today is the following one. Probably the Indian effect in the kantha embroidered bedspread got me! But the overall effect with Moroccan pillows paired with kilim pillows, baskets and cane laundry baskets was very appealing.

Via

Holiday House Showcase

2013-04-15T20:39:00.001+05:30

This Designer Showhouse (2012) in Manhattan, in benefit of Cancer Research Foundation,was decorated with jewel-like settings. These sample rooms were done up in soothing shades of lavender, purple, turquoise, emerald etc. And contrast colours were fused to create an overall drama. See for yourself.

Via

Black Magic

2013-04-01T20:31:00.002+05:30

I belong to a country where people embrace vibrant colours in a very natural way. So, like me, many hesitate to decorate spaces with black-- infact, consciously stay away from it as black has earned a bad name for itself as an inauspicious colour. But I came across some spaces that, despite having doses of black, were balanced with other hues or black was injected in small doses to accentuate the stylish personality of the rooms.

Black, if used cleverly, looks very posh in a room. Designers often prefer to decorate men's pads with black as the colour has some masculine character about it. But when combined with other colours it can be fun.

Introduce black in a little measure to begin with-- like on one wall, on a piece of furniture, on the rug, wallpaper etc. Then build up the theme by offsetting it with a single bright colour like turquoise, fuchsia etc or more colours in the form of cushions or upholstery. White most commonly partners with black. But do not be afraid to pair sunny yellow, crimson red, beige, orange, green or even mauve to do the trick with black.

Via

Black and white wallpaper adds a dimension to the room

Turquoise and black make this bathroom attractive

Black and pink

Power Greenrooms at Oscars

2013-02-22T11:02:00.002+05:30

These are the green rooms where Oscar nominees spend some quiet moment to calm their nerves, away from the backstage madness. So these spaces have to be highly glamourous, sophisticated as well as comfortable. And designers take great pains to do up the spaces with different themes every year. Here are some glimpses ...

84th Annual Academy Awards

AD100 interior designer Waldo Fernandez was inspired by the iconic of Hollywood decorator Billy Haines. The space included a library with entirely hand-painted book jackets that feature images from the AMPAS archives, including Elizabeth Taylor in Butterfield 8 and Sylvester Stallone in Rocky.

82nd Annual Academy Awards

RogerThomas designed the 2010 greenroom around a custom paint-splattered floor. He says he imagined that this “would have been how the floor looked when they were painting the sets of my favorite movies.”

83rd Annual Academy Awards

Interior designer MichaelS. Smith was inspired by the 1930s and ’40s when creating his 2011 greenroom design, because it was a period of time, he says, that “really established what we think of as Hollywood glamour.” He conceived a luxe and tailored library setting, complete with a sophisticated color palette, wood-paneled walls, a gold-leafed ceiling, and comfortable furnishings.

81st Annual Academy Awards

StephenShadley is a scenic artist turned interior designer to movie stars such as Diane Keaton, Woody Allen, Robert Altman, and Jennifer Aniston. Using a photographic backdrop of the Los Angeles skyline as the focal point in his 2009 Architectural Digest Greenroom design, Shadley created a lounge area reminiscent of a chic 1970s modern home with a panoramic view of the city from the Hollywood Hills.

Via

Home Designer Heather Scott

2013-02-20T15:57:00.001+05:30

While surfing the net, I came across Heather Scott Home and Design and almost immediately loved their fresh and lively design concepts.The spaces look very warm and inviting. I adore the prints that she has used-- be it on the cushions, duvets, curtains or on the walls!

I found out on Heather's blog about her passion for fabrics: She says,"In my opinion, fabrics are often the most important decorative element in a room. After you’ve established the floorplan/layout and architectural elements, it is important to have an ‘inspiration’ piece to get the room’s design started. I love to start with artwork, but sometimes original artwork can be cost prohibitive. In lieu of a fabulous oil painting, I often turn to interesting fabrics". Well that is very evident in all the rooms that she has designed.

The rooms, though mostly done in brown and beige, look very livable and not like an art museum! So take a look...

Read an interview with Heather Scott here.

Images Via

Dramatic Bedrooms

2013-02-18T21:30:00.000+05:30

With the Valentines' Day only a few days old, love is still in the air! And this is a good time to showcase some bedrooms with both intense and soft shades, bold and delicate prints, masculine and feminine characteristics. Refined palettes, classic curves, exquisite details and electrifying contrasts combine to make these bedrooms uber stylish and aesthetic.

Via


Houzz.com

Bodhi Tree-- A Boutique Guest House in Kolkata

2012-12-18T14:08:00.001+05:30

I came across this guest house on the net and was immediately floored. I was looking for some serviced apartments in Kolkata when I found this boutique guest house and serviced apartment. The place is so aesthetically done, it will immediately attract many guests with discerning taste. The price is also not that high compared to the tasteful decor, relaxing ambience and the central location.You can admire the art and artefacts, browse books under the trees in the garden, surf the net and relish home-cooked food at Bodhi Tree. And do check out the special offers for women mentioned below.

Kalchakra Garden View Room

Bodhi Master Suite

Vajrayana Guestroom

Yogacara Cottage

Decorated with strong Buddhist and Tibetan accents, synthesised with dark and carved wooden furniture, Bodhi Tree is an eclectic mix of B&B, Serviced Apartment, Guest House, Inn and a Boutique Hotel. Located close to Rabindra Sarovar Metro Station, the place has been designed by the owners Santasree Chaudhuri and her son Devdan Chaudhuri themselves. Santasree is an Entrepreneur (Logistics Management Consultant) and an Activist, with a keen interest in spirituality, travel and social work.

Common Space-- cafe, library, garden, art gallery

Mahayana Guestroom Suite

Tantrayana Guestroom

Kalchakra Garden View Room

Bodhi Master Suite

Charges:

Yogacara Cottage --INR 2200/- per night ( inclusive of taxes, breakfast for 2 & Wi – fi ) -- a smaller room : only suitable for single matured adult or two young adults.
Kalchakra Garden View-- INR 3000/- per night ( inclusive of taxes, breakfast for 2 & Wi – fi )
Tantrayana Guestroom-- INR 4000/- per night ( inclusive of taxes, breakfast for 2 & Wi – fi )
Mahayana Guestroom Suite-- INR 4000/-per night ( inclusive of taxes, breakfast for 2 & Wi – fi )
Vajrayana Guestroom Suite -- INR 4500/- per night ( inclusive of taxes, breakfast for 2 & Wi – fi )
Bodhi Master Suite (2 Bedroom) -- INR 8000/- per night (inclusive of taxes, breakfast for 4 & Wi – fi)

For women travellers, Bodhi Tree has some special rates and privileges under Wewomyn Purple Privilege-- especially travelling alone/group with children and women visiting Kolkata for voluntary/social work. One of the motivations for Santasree to start Bodhi Tree was to provide safe and secured accomodation to women travellers from all over the globe. But men are equally welcome.

With a mission to empower women, she provides holistic legal advise to victims of domestic violence and gender discrimination.

Connect with Bodhi Tree on Facebook

Home Decor For Durga Puja & Navratri Festivities

2012-10-17T21:16:00.001+05:30

The festive cleanings are almost done and the drums are rolling for Goddess Durga's earthly sojourn that will begin this week-end. So get set for the festive decor with these....

Good Earth

Bengali alpona art

Good Earth Collection

Good earth Mughal Collection

Fabindia

Apartment Therapy

Orange Living Room

Carved Coffee Table and golden Cushions- West Elm

Mirror Table and Wall Decor

Martini Side Table

Printed Boucle Pillow Cover

Nordic Stripe Silk Pillow Covers

Karthik's Home in Bangalore

Karthik's Living Room

Another corner of the room

Decorate with Spritual Elements

2012-10-07T21:19:00.002+05:30

Displaying spiritual elements in the house is very common in many parts of the world. Be it Lord Ganesha, Budhha, Jesus Christ or any other sacred element, all become pieces of art and adorn the console top, the side/centre table or the wall. They also add a sense of belonging as well as some component of interest to our spaces. A blend of ethnic and spiritual items can be displayed in a room very artistically, without compromising on the contemporary look of the space.

So scout the flea markets, antique/furniture shops or your mother's house for that carved Altar table, decorative cross, or may be some silver idols. Who says that you can display them only during festivities? These sculptures and artefacts will showcase some historical perspective as well as work as conversation pieces throughout the year.

A Chinese Altar Table

A Buddha Bust

An Indian Damachiya Console with carved images of Goddess Kuladevi

A Mexican Santo

An Ethiopian Processional Cross

A Screen with Spiritual Elements

Via

Buddha Statues at Cher's Penthouse designed by Martyn Lawrence Bullard

A statue of Indian Goddess at Cher's penthouse

Entry to Cher's Bedroom: painted vellum panel of Buddha

Saraswati--the Goddess of Learning from Nepal

Lord Ganesha Sculpture

Lord Ganesha Plate

A Brass Nataraj Statue

Chinese Gods

Carved Indian Statues

Crucifixion Wall Sculpture


Carved statue of Laxmi-- the Goddess of Wealth

Nataraj Statue

Chinese Altar Table with Drawers

Madonna and Child

God of the Grape Harvest Wall Decor

Blessings of Buddha

Celestial Express: Sun Wall Decor

Pedestals carved with Greek God patterns

Buddha Wall Frieze

Home in a Converted Church

Buddha Presiding Over Side Table

A Closer Look

Buddha on the Wall

Buddha on Console

Be Neutral, Go Neutral

2012-06-22T17:20:00.000+05:30

Personally I love profusion of colours in my rooms as I feel that they bring life to any space. But I often come across neutral rooms that look dramatic and classy. Neutrals are mostly calming and pleasing to the senses. But as with colours, one has to keep in mind several factors while creating a neutral palette so that it doesn't look boring and lifeless.

A Villa : by Michael Abrams Limited

So take tips from these on how to cleverly use the palest grey and beige to milky whites and cream to chocolate browns and create a sophisticated space that is warm and inviting.

By Michael Abrams Limited

By Michael Abrams

Use Different Shades
of the Same Colour

If you have opted for beige, cream, taupe or any other
neutral, the same shade all over the space will make the room look very drab.
Instead, use different shades and patterns of the same colour to add drama and depth
to your room.

Sophisticated Elegance by Michael Abrams

Dressing Room by Michael Abrams

Bedroom in a Villa

Beautiful peach waffle weave bedspread

Luxurious by Michael Abrams

Multiple Textures Balance Well

Different elements and distinct textures will lift your room from mundane to interesting. So contrast fabrics with leather, wood with steel, wall colours with draperies.


A glittery entertainment unit and corner chair

Create a Focal Point 

Do create a focal point with a painting, 

patterned rug, a tribal object etc by picking 

up colours from the neutral shades in the  

room to bind all the colours together.

Orange and brown, Silk,velvet and wood


Peach and Chocolaty shades: Michael Abrams Limited

Both by Michael Abrams

Incorporate Pattern and Colour

The large-scale pattern on the drapery or in the form of paintings will really add dimension to any neutral room. Introduce these elements in the form of an area rug, vases, cushions, trays, lamps etc.

Colour Yellow beautifully complements the peaches and tans in this room

Patterns breaking the monotony of white: Style at Home

Feel of an under-water with colours and natural elements

The red colour pops against neutrals

Brown, Beige and Mustard : Michael Abrams Limited

Clean lines

Red on the floor, blue on the wall: Michael Abrams Limited


Yellow and brown

Flowers and accents: Elle Decor

Teal, brown, red, blue against a neutral wall : Elle Decor

Soothing in cream, brown and turquoise: Elle Decor

Mix Neutrals

Don't be hesitant to combine different neutral colours like beiges and chocolates, greys and whites, silver grey and deep charcoal etc. 

Go White

White may look too clinical. So be careful while decorating with white. Dashes of colour in the form of accessories, furniture and fabrics will do the trick. Natural elements like flowers, dry branches, potted plants also enhance the appeal of the creamy or milky white space.

White with shades of grey

White dinning space

Perfect place to unwind

Cream and metal Vanity

Serene and amidst nature

Milky White and turquoise

Sea-themes beach house

Synthesis of patterns and colours

Michael Abrams Limited

Grey with white and orange-brown

Touches of green, grey and black

Elegant in grey and brown

Devin Kirk's Chicago apartment

Elle Decor

Some more soothing neutral rooms from 

Michael Abrams Limited 

And finally, as I always say, add little touches of your creativity and lap up all the compliments!!

Collect Shells at Seychelles

2012-05-31T10:43:00.002+05:30

With the summer heat draining us out, everyone, including me, is yearning for holidays. And beach resorts are one of most popular destinations during summer.As I was  surfing the net, Seychelles caught my fancy and I wanted to share its breathtaking natural and man-made beauty with you! The azure blue sea and the varied marine life will surely make your holidays memorable. 


Seychelles Island

The Seychelles Archipelago(meaning a group of Islands), is made up of 115 islands-- which are either Coralline or Granitic, classified as Inner or Outer Islands. Seychelles is located in the Indian Ocean, off the southeastern coast of Africa in the northeast of the Republic of Madagascar. The islands are spread over an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of 1,374,000km2.

The granitic islands of Seychelles are considered to be the oldest and hardest granite in the world and also these are the only mid oceanic granitic islands in the world. All the granitic islands of Seychelles are covered in lush green tropical vegetation. Its highest peak is located on Mahe.

Hilton Seychelles Labriz Spa & Resort


Nestled amidst lush greenery is Hilton Seychelles

Hilton Seychelles boasting of a vast coastline

Rich Marine Life

Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort and Spa

Maia Luxury Resort and Spa, Seychelles

Maiah Luxury Resort & Spa, Seychelles

To know more about this beach resort destination, explore Seychelles Connect -- the site of info-packed, one-stop travel marketing agency based in the islands. They will guide you regarding the best packages and tour programmes available.

Displaying Collections

2012-04-11T13:23:00.003+05:30

We humans are hoarders by nature. We collect different items from antique
shops, flea markets, local shops and during our travels. But often we fail to
display them effectively. Instead of storing them inside your cupboard, take them out and make a collage on the wall, on your table or desk.  So whether you collect cut glass vases, blue pottery,
antique swords, old matchboxes, locks, textiles, quilts—wherever your passion
lies—experts say, display them in a group for a better visual effect.

Take inspiration from these and show off your prized possessions...

Art Nouveau Display

Collectibles at designer Sabayasachi's Mumbai Store

Collection of plates on the wall

Old Clocks and Vintage Posters at the Store


Timeless Blue Pottery

A group of serving baskets

Vintage Items On Display

Vintage Lunchboxes Over Staircase

Vintage Posters

Stamp Collection

Buddha Collection

Collection of Etchings

Shot Glass Collection

Mercury Glass display

Cat collection

Eclectic Display for a Great Effect

Sterling Collectibles

Swarovski Insect Display

Swarovski Butterfly Collection

Cambodian Buddha

Globe-trotter

Vintage Wooden Animals Over Bathroom Sink

Sock Monkeys

Show Off Your Vase Collection

Home with a Persoanlity

2012-04-09T11:36:00.000+05:30

These are homes with personality and poise-- just like the owners. They feature an eye for tasteful decor and treasures collected over the years. 

First is the house of writer and human rights specialist Maryam Montague and her architect husband Chris Redecke in Marrakech.

Via

This is the home of decorator Lorenzo Castillo in Madrid-- a 17th century convent converted into a duplex.

Via

Youthful colours and prints add cheerful touches to rug designer Sabine de Grunzburg's Paris apartment.

Via

A Modern House With Spectacular Lake View

2012-03-07T12:05:00.000+05:30

This New England house is located in Vermont and has a stunning view of sweeping  pastures and the majestic Lake Champlain. And changing daylight as well as varying seasons create ravishing mements. But the straight lines and contemporary decor style of the house on a historic site make it more appealing.

(Read more)

Via

Martyn's Life and Love for Decoration

2012-03-05T15:56:00.000+05:30

He wanted to be an actor. And with his strikingly handsome features and good looks,  this would have been an easy task for Martyn Lawrence Bullard. But he  was destined to become an interior designer. Now he designs the  houses of the rich and powerful and his high-profile clients include  Sir Elton John, Kid Rock, supermodel Cheryl Tiegs, Cher, Eva Mendes, Ellen Pompeo, Edward Norton, Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne and several other such A-listers.

Tamara Mellon's luxurious Penthouse

He is among LA's five most sought-after interior decorators. Interestingly, his own life story would make a very riveting film script.At the age of twelve, Martyn  started to buy and sell items like silver spoons, boxes, dishes, pieces of fabrics etc. He would go with his father to Greenwich Antique Market and rent a stall. Then he would run around other shops and buy interesting items with his pocket money and then display them on draped clothes and interesting boxes in his stall to make them look appealing. He even had great stories to tell to the precocious buyers about his wares. And by the age of sixteen he had a following of dealers and collectors who would flock around his stall to source items from him.

But he constantly nurtured his aspirations to become an actor and finally raised a few thousand dollars by selling antiques, including silver items and gold jewellery to pay his fees at the acting school Strasberg Institute in Los Angeles. He had even acted in a few films. And one such role led his to his real passion when producer liked the flea market treasures displayed at his rented place and asked him to decorate their office. And then there was no looking back...

Billed as one of the top talents in architecture  and interior design, Martyn is considered to have a strong sense of  proportion and scale, an eye for colour and pattern and an energetic  international sensibility with a bent towards Oriental. His appeal lies  in its ability to deftly combine elements from different continents and  eras to create a sophisticated to eclectic look.

His book "Live, Love and Decorate"  has become very popular among decor enthusiasts as it unfolds the  private spaces of several celebrities. It has a foreword by Sir Elton  John and published by Rizzoli. All pictures by Tim Street-Porter.

Following images via

The space decorated with Martyn's line of fabrics

Potuguese bed and mother-of-pearl inlaid trunk

Cortazzo Ranch

Ellen Pompeo's master bedroom

Sir Elton John's living room

Sir Elton John's room

Buddhas in the corner, Ganesha on the table

Opulent Inlaid furniture. Don't miss the Buddha and Ganesha statues on the bedside table

A Moroccan table seamlessly mixes with animal printed ottomans

I love the blue and white colour scheme, especially the embroidered cushions

Asian musical instruments on the wall

Cane lamps and Buddha images on cabinet doors

Add caption

Spice of Asia

2012-02-22T16:05:00.001+05:30

Asian style of interior decor is gradually becoming more and more popular all over the globe because of its use of vibrant colours, opulent prints and textures and intricate handcrafted artefacts. 

I also love lots of colour and textured fabrics or  interesting block prints in my interior space. Here I present some homes that reflect the true Asian decor style-- complete with electrifying colours, energetic display and a spirited way of life.

A typical Asian living room

Asian-style showcase

Daybed Nook

Warm Look

Attractive display over console

Bright colours in bedroom

Multi-hued cushions and paintings

An inviting corner

Modern and antique side-by-side

Antique trays on the wall

Fish and water-filled vase lend the Feng shui accent

A tranquil outdoor space

Using artworks for decoration

Bright accents

Add A Dash Of Turquoise To Your Room

2012-01-10T13:45:00.011+05:30

Peacock vase

A Pair of Chinese Vases

Of late I am feeling a special affinity towards the colour turquoise in interior decor. Probably the interest was fuelled by the blog House of Turquoise,  where Erin laboriously looks for turquoise elements in a room and showcases them with a lot of devotion day after day.Every day.

Canvas Wall Art

Turquoise Zodiac Tile

The colour Turquoise is a mixture of blue and green with its shades ranging from sky blue to deep greenish blues.While the lighter shade of turquoise is very feminine, the darker teal shade looks very sophisticated. 

A beautiful Turquoise Sofa

Ceramic Horse

A Cozy Corner

Kitchen Shelves

Turquoise Lotus Cushion

Italian Ceramic

Turquoise Blossom

Turquoise, Orange Cherry Blossom Prints

Painted Mirror

The colour can be used in different ways to create a room of your choice-- whether you fancy a bold and lively look of want a dreamy or warm ambience. Lighter shades of the colour has  a calming effect. while the deeper shades look exciting and wild. 

Kitchen Nook

Floral Tiles


Salon de Thé by Ames Ingham

Cabinet de Curiosité by Martyn Lawrence Bullard

A Cheerful Room

Embroidered Cushion

Ceramic Fish

Combine it with grey, silver, pink, chocolate and  terracotta for an eclectic look. Mix it with orange, yellow or green for  a fresh, sporty look. For a serious personality, go for white or black  accents with Turquoise.


Cabinet de Curiosite

Turquoise and Green

Floral Cushion

A Calming Effect

Turquoise and Green Knick-knacks

Turquoise Accents

Turquoise on Wall and Curtain

Fawn and Turquoise

Elegant Family Room

An Elegant Room inTurquoise,Blue,Grey,Yellow and Black

Villa Amarilla

Some More Rooms....

A Bold Wall Colour

Lavender and Turquoise

Turquoise Lacquered Wall

Turquoise Orange Dinning Room

Purple and Turquoise

Handy Tips

Sunny Yellow and Turquoise

Orange and Turquoise

Turquoise Binding all Other Colours

A Statement Wall

Orange,Turquoise and Mustard

A Serene Aqua Bedroom


A Lovely Motif in Turquoise

Silver and Turquoise

Dinning Room

Turquoise is believed to symbolise open communication  and clarity of thought. It is said that Turquoise recharges spirits  during times of mental stress.

Purple and Turquoise

Kid's Room

Lovely Pink and Turquoise

Snuggle In

Teal and Chocolate

Modern Look

Deep Turquoise, Blue and White

Turquoise Glasses Complement Zinc-topped Table

Elephant Wall Hanging

So take inspiration from these rooms and incorporate more of Turquoise into your space.

Via:The Lennoxx
Country Living
Coastal Living
Elle Decor

The Simple Charm of Filipino Homes

2012-01-03T11:16:00.003+05:30

I am starting the New Year by featuring a few houses in the Philippines. Some are contemporary, some casual and some a fusion of both-- but all are charming. And you may even feel a similarity between their decor style and that of Indian sensibilities. 

The first house here showcases simple but carefully created country charm in the vacation house of a Manila designer. The quirky curios, natural weaves, dashes of colour and natural elements reflect the owner's childhood association with various things.

An Earthy Palette

Themed Decor: Framed Fish

An Attractive Outdoor Space

Cool Clock

A Giraffe Keeping An Eye On The Room

Hat Collection In Children's Room

A Framed Ganesha Sharing Space With Quirky Curios

Via

Some more Filipino houses...

A Modern Look

An Attractive Kitchen Counter: Plastic Chairs, Glass-top Tables

Mirrored Console

Oriental Look

An Inviting Living Room

Elegant In Black n White

Via

Bring In 2012 With Flowers

2011-12-26T19:15:00.001+05:30

Flower arrangement is an art. A beautifully arranged floral bouquet instantly uplifts the spirit and gives a character to any room. And no New Year party would be complete without flowers. 

Here are some Ikebana floral arrangements which you can try at home. Ikebana is the Japanese art of flower arrangement. 'Ike' means to arrange and 'bana' originates from the word 'hana', which means flower.

Ikebana combines flowers with branches to create a simple but beautiful flower arrangement. You can also use metal, wood, plastic etc to enhance it further. The shape and colour of the vase is also taken into consideration while making the arrangement. 

Interestingly, it is said that Ikebana went to Japan from India via China with the spread of Buddhism, in around 600 AD.

So have fun with your floral arrangement as you usher in 2012 with lots of happiness and laughter. 

Wish you lots of luck, success and good health in the New Year and always! See you in New Year!

Be Coloricious

2011-11-28T12:35:00.001+05:30

As they say, colour is the spice of life. And when a room is splashed in vibrant and cheerful hues, the effect is eclectic. But when you want a serious and elegant look for your room, neutral and pearl shades will do the trick.

Red,orange,yellow,green,orange,turquoise....Image:Better Homes and Gardens

Image:Better Homes and Gardens

Cheerful Turquoise. Image:Femalenetwork.com

Navy and Turquoise. Image: Elle Decor

A cozy room. Image:ivillage.com

A happy room in brown,yellow,fuchsia. Image:idesignarch

Bright Wallpaper. Image:styleathome

Green and Orange. Image:ivillage.com

Sober in Lilac and Pearl. Image:Better Homes and Gardens

Lavender bedroom. Image:House Beautiful

Image:Eileen Cathryn Boyd Interiors

Cheerful living in Sunshine Yellow. Image:BHG

Soothing in White and Sage Green. Image:BHG

Cool in Pastel and Flowers

Add colour with bright accents.Image:housedesignarchitecture

Magenta in Kitchen. Image:ivillage.com

Dressing room splendour. Image:styleathome

August and Elegant New England Homes

2011-11-15T11:28:00.000+05:30

Here are three New England homes that are grand in their scales, views and luxuries; opulent in their styles and amount of available garden spaces and perfectly mix   grandoise architecture with dignified interior designs. Do you know that New England is a term used by US Conservatives to describe countries in European post-Communist era? The 'newness' refers not to their independent status but re-acquired status of capitalist democracies. Another aspect that binds them together is their governments' support to the 2003 Iraq war.

However, these houses will bring in a breadth of fresh air with their soothing or at times bold colours, interesting textures and accents to brighten up your day.

Hungarian oil painting, bold colours on sofa makes an elegant contrast against curtain prints

A cozy corner

Rich colours in library

Curved foyer wall showcasing a scene from North America

A welcoming entrance

Comfy sofas

Vast green expanse

The stone wall lends texture to the space

Girls' room in purple and lavender

A view from the house

Courtesy: New England Homes

Bring in Peace and Tranquility with Buddha

2011-11-02T15:36:00.027+05:30

Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva statue at Cintamanicakra Avalokitesvara Hall, Singapore

My earlier post Buddha at Home has become so popular that it has prompted me to do another post on decorating with Buddha statues.Buddha is associated with peace,tranquility, harmony, wisdom and balance.Do you know that Buddha statues are found in sitting, dancing, standing or reclining postures and each has a special significance?

Buddha under Bodhi tree

Also referred to as an asana, there are over 100 poses illustrating the life of the Buddha. And each posture has a specific hand gesture, called a mudra. In that sense, Buddhism and Hinduism share  a common Indian heritage as mudras of  Hindu Gods and  Goddesses also have significant meanings.

The five most common mudras are the Abhaya Mudra or no-fear mudra (right hand raised and  palm facing out, with the left hand down toward the hips and also facing  out) an assurance of safety or protection, peace, benevolence and dispelling of fear; the Bhumisparsha  mudra (all five fingers of the right hand reaching to touch the ground)  symbolizing the enlightenment of the Buddha under the Bodhi tree and represents the central moment in the life of Buddha when he preached his first sermon after his Enlightenment; the  Dhyana mudra (one or both hands in the lap) symbolizing meditating;  the Dharmachakra  mudra (the thumb and index finger of both hands touch at their tips to  form a circle) symbolizing the Wheel of Dharma and the Varada mudra  (making a fist with the right hand, index extending upward,  and the left hand also making a fist and enclosing the index) signifies offering, welcome, charity, giving, compassion and sincerity.

Reclining Buddha

The reclining Buddha signifies tranquility and absolute detachment from  the desires of the world, a state obtained on the attainment of Nirvana. This serene and composed posture signifies his last hours before leaving this world and also represents complete peace and detachment from the worldly things. 

Buddhist altar in a Thai house

A serene glass Buddha

Tranquil Buddha

A Thai Buddha statue

Buddha among nature

Buddha on the study table

Zen-style bathroom

Buddha

Antique Thai Buddha

A Buddha statue on each window

Buddha on a console

On a side table in the living room

Buddha on side table: femalenetwork.com

Five matching Buddhas

Buddha bust

Lladro: Wisdom of Buddha

An ornamental Buddha in a hotel

Buddha amidst lamps and flowers

Buddha in a corner

Paris meets Asian chic

Buddha on Vignette

Buddha in Study Room

All three above: sabaidesigngallery

Make a bold statement with an oversized Buddha

Silkscreen Buddha images

Buddha statues with other figurines

Buddha in a Himalayan Resort

Silver Buddha statue

Wall Mural

Buddha on a round table

Buddha on console

Buddha Incense stick holder

An eclectic mix

Buddha in a living room

Buddha in a black-n-white room

Buddha in bedroom: styleathome

Courtesy: examiner.com

Buddha in bathroom: blueporch.com

Shakyamuni Buddha Statue

So bring a buddha statue home. Whatever is your decor style, the benevolent Buddha will look at home in any space. Be it an oversized piece or an intricately carved small one, Buddha statues will bring in peace, happiness and wisdom into your home. Decorate your coffee table, side table, consoles, vignettes, garden, foyer, study-- wherever you want. There is a Buddha statue waiting to grace your home right now.

Buddha is venerated in many countries, so follow some rules while decorating:

Buddha statues should be placed on a raised platform so that it does not come contact with your feet and should be set in a respectful manner.
Do not associate the Buddha statue with anything unclean. If you are looking to place a Buddha statue in the garden, find a clean and beautiful place to rest it.
Buddha should not be placed under any other tree other than the Bodhi tree. That’s where Gautama Buddha had attained Nirvana or enlightenment.
If broken or damaged, do not throw off your Buddha statue carelessly; leave it under a Bodhi tree.