Designing a Home That Feels Like Home: Bringing Back Indian Interior Design
- Pescora Design
- Apr 8
- 10 min read
There was a time when Indian homes were designed for Indian lifestyles. Now, they’re designed for Pinterest boards.
We see it everywhere—Scandinavian minimalism in Mumbai flats, Mediterranean arches in Delhi bungalows, Japandi aesthetics in Bangalore apartments. While these styles are undeniably beautiful, they often sideline cultural relevance, climate adaptability, and functionality. Are we designing for our way of life, or just for a global aesthetic?
That said, the influx of global design has also opened doors. It’s helped us think about clean layouts, mood lighting, and smart storage. But in the process, have we lost the textures, traditions, and techniques that made Indian homes feel alive?
Whether you're designing a modern villa or a spacious flat in a Hiranandani township, the goal is the same—to create a space that feels like yours, not someone else’s idea of perfect.
Indian Home Interior Design
Here’s how you can interior design a home in the Indian style—beautiful, functional, and deeply rooted in your way of life.
GLOSSARY:
Lighting
Nooks
Soft Furnishing
Accesories
1. Flooring
Floors are the first point of physical contact in your home. In traditional Indian homes, they were chosen for how they felt under bare feet during hot summers or cool monsoons. Instead of defaulting to high-gloss vitrified tiles, consider:
Italian marble (Makrana, Banswara, or Indian Statuario) – With its regal sheen and heritage value, it’s ideal for living rooms or entrance foyers in spacious Hiranandani flats. These marbles are luxurious, but still economical compared to imported ones.
Engineered wooden flooring – Adds warmth to bedrooms and studies without the high maintenance of solid wood.
Marble inlay borders – Subtle patterns inspired by Mughal art around room edges can add depth without clutter.
Kota stone or Tandur stone- Natural stones that are both cost-effective and climate-appropriate. They remain cool, have a matte texture, and are perfect for balconies in Indian conditions—especially in places like Thane or Powai, where homes in Hiranandani properties benefit from large floor areas.
Athangudi tiles- Originating from Tamil Nadu, these vibrant, handmade tiles are stunning in courtyards, entryways, or even powder rooms.
Terracotta flooring- Adds instant earthiness and charm to balconies or pooja rooms.
Wooden or bamboo flooring- If you want warmth, opt for locally sourced wood or eco-friendly alternatives in bedrooms and reading nooks.
2. Walls
Indian design isn’t afraid of storytelling—and our walls have always been silent narrators. They’ve held family photos, hand-painted murals, and spiritual motifs that spoke of who we are. Instead of blank walls that only serve as backdrops for furniture, try:
1. Wall Paneling in Muted Tones
Wall paneling, when painted in soft, muted tones like dove grey, taupe, or ivory, instantly elevates the ambiance of a master suite. It creates a calm, cocoon-like environment that feels both luxurious and personal. In Hiranandani apartments—known for their generous layouts—this technique can mimic the elegance of boutique hotels while offering warmth and character. Pair it with brass sconces or pendant lighting for that refined touch.
2. Carved Wooden Partitions Inspired by Rajasthani Jaali Work
Introduce handcrafted wooden screens, borrowing from the intricate detailing of Rajasthani jaali or Mughal latticework, to divide spaces elegantly. These partitions are not only ornamental but functional—ideal for subtly separating a puja corner or an entrance foyer from the living area without completely closing it off. The perforated patterns allow light and air to flow through while creating an exquisite interplay of shadow and texture across the floor.
3. Handcrafted Wall Art like Pichwai or Tanjore Panels
Hand-painted Pichwai artworks—with their detailed depictions of Lord Krishna and lotuses—or Tanjore panels featuring deities in gold foil, bring spiritual richness and timeless elegance into your home. Displaying these forms in the living or dining area reflects deep cultural roots and lends the space a sense of curated luxury, far beyond mass-produced décor.
4. Jaali Partitions for Open Plan Living
Hiranandani flats often offer expansive open-plan layouts. Jaali partitions—crafted in wood or metal—are an ideal solution for gently zoning spaces without obstructing natural light or ventilation. Use them to define areas like a study nook, dining zone, or meditation corner, creating a sense of flow while maintaining privacy and grace.
5. Pattachitra, Kalamkari, or Warli Murals as Focal Art
You don’t need to commit to an entire mural wall. Instead, frame a single canvas or panel in traditional Indian art forms like Pattachitra (from Odisha), Kalamkari (from Andhra Pradesh), or Warli (from Maharashtra) to instantly draw attention and infuse character into any room. These styles narrate stories, customs, and folklore—turning your wall into a conversation starter.
6. Brass or Antique Frames for Family Heirlooms
Turn your corridor or hallway into a “heritage gallery” by showcasing vintage family photographs, scriptures, or memorabilia in ornate brass or antique wooden frames. This adds depth and sentimentality to the home, telling a personal story through design. The reflective quality of brass adds warmth and regality, especially when paired with soft lighting.
"Walls should feel less like backdrops and more like archives of your identity."
3. Furniture
Furniture in Indian homes has never been just ornamental. A carved chest held wedding sarees. A jhoola was where grandparents told bedtime stories. Every piece had a purpose—and a story Bring that energy back with:
1. Choose Rosewood or Teakwood Furniture with Graceful Carvings
Opt for furniture pieces made from solid rosewood or teak, known for their strength and natural beauty. Choose styles that feature subtle, minimal carvings—floral vines, geometric jali, or temple borders to retain the richness of Indian craftsmanship while still complementing a contemporary interior. These pieces act as timeless anchors in a room full of ever-changing trends.
2. Place a Swing (Jhoola) in the Living Room
Nothing evokes Indian elegance quite like a beautifully crafted jhoola. Suspend it from the ceiling using polished brass chains, with the seat carved in mahogany or teak, and upholstered in ikat, silk, or brocade fabrics. Whether placed near a window or centrally in the living space, a swing becomes a luxurious, functional art piece that invites everyone to sit, sway, and connect.
3. Incorporate a Low Diwan with Bolsters
A low diwan, paired with traditional round or cylindrical bolsters, is both nostalgic and versatile. Ideal for lounging with a book, enjoying tea, or entertaining guests, it fits perfectly in a corner of the living room or guest bedroom. Add layered textiles—like block-printed throws or embroidered cushions—for a cozy, layered look.
4. Add Hand-Polished Consoles and Sideboards
Invest in hand-polished walnut or sheesham consoles, sideboards, or credenzas with traditional detailing like latticework or mother-of-pearl inlay. These provide elegant storage options while serving as stylish surfaces to display lamps, sculptures, or family heirlooms. High-gloss finishes amplify the luxury factor, catching natural light during the day and warm lamp light at night.
5. Solid Teak or Sheesham Wood Pieces
Furnishing your home with solid teak or sheesham wood ensures both durability and charm. These woods age beautifully, developing a deeper patina over time. Whether it's a center table, bedframe, or wardrobe, their grain patterns and natural finish add warmth and authenticity to the space.
6. Built-in Window Seating or Bench-Style Dining Spaces
Make the most of every corner in a Hiranandani home with built-in window seats—ideal for reading, daydreaming, or sipping your morning chai. Similarly, bench-style seating in the dining area saves space while giving a casual, earthy vibe. Tuck in storage drawers underneath for added functionality.
7. Carved Swings or Traditional Diwans for Drawing Rooms
Introduce carved swings or diwans as statement pieces in formal living rooms. These classic elements bring in an old-world charm that feels nostalgic yet luxurious. When set against muted modern backdrops, they instantly create a visually rich fusion of eras.
8. Restored Vintage Trunks as Multipurpose Furniture
Vintage trunks, especially those passed down through generations or sourced from local artisans, can be repurposed as coffee tables, bedside tables, or end-of-bed storage. Add a glass top or brass accents to elevate the look. They not only provide functionality but also serve as storytelling pieces.
In Indian homes, furniture isn’t matchy-matchy. It’s layered. And each piece carries a memory.
4. Architectural Details That Make a Statement
"Sometimes, the soul of a home lies in the bones—not just the décor."
1. Frame Doorways with Mahogany or Sheesham Pillars
Create a regal first impression by framing key doorways or entrances with mahogany or sheesham wood pillars. Even half-height columns or subtly carved pilasters on either side of an entryway can add an architectural rhythm and sense of formality to your space. These pillars act like visual anchors, drawing attention to passageways and giving them the feel of heritage homes without overwhelming smaller apartment proportions.
2. Install Arched Niches or Mandir Alcoves
Incorporate arched niches into your walls or designated mandir corners—especially useful in open-plan layouts. Enhance these alcoves with mother-of-pearl inlay, marble backing, or jaali screens to create a sacred, intimate vibe. Use soft recessed lighting inside the niche to spotlight idols or devotional art, elevating it from a functional pooja corner to a serene spiritual focal point.
3. Add a False Ceiling with Wooden Battens or a Carved Medallion
A false ceiling with wooden battens adds both texture and warmth, breaking the monotony of plain overhead spaces. You can also install a carved wooden or gypsum medallion at the center to suspend an ornate Indian-style chandelier—think brass, crystal, or even hand-beaten metal with jali cutouts. This design move can dramatically uplift a living or dining room, offering an instant sense of grandeur.
4. Use Floor-to-Ceiling Fretwork Partitions
Instead of solid walls, go for full-height fretwork partitions to softly divide spaces like the living and dining zones—especially in the open layouts common in Hiranandani flats. Whether in laser-cut metal, CNC wood panels, or traditional hand-carved designs, these partitions maintain visual flow, natural light, and cross ventilation, all while introducing artisanal beauty into the space.
5. Lighting
Lighting is where Indian homes often lose their warmth. White ceiling lights can make even the most beautiful space feel sterile. Here’s how to bring the glow back:
1. Warm-Toned Brass Lamps or Antique-Finish Pendants in Dining Areas
Choose brass pendant lights or antique-finish hanging lamps to suspend above dining tables. These warm metallics catch ambient light beautifully and create a cozy, inviting glow that enhances both everyday meals and festive gatherings. Go for bell-shaped, dome, or diya-inspired designs for that perfect blend of tradition and sophistication.
2. Glass Lanterns in Balconies or Entrances
Introduce glass lanterns with filigree detailing or minimalist brass frames in your balcony or entry foyer. These are especially effective in spacious layouts like those in Hiranandani’s premium towers, where open-to-sky balconies and long corridors offer ample opportunity to create stunning first impressions. Place them on console tables, hang them in clusters, or set them atop floor pedestals for a resort-like entrance vibe.
3. Layered Lighting for Mood and Depth
Good lighting is more than just brightness—it’s about layers. Complement your overhead ceiling lights with a curated mix of:
Table lamps on nightstands or consoles
Floor lamps with soft fabric shades near seating areas
Wall sconces in passageways or reading cornersThis creates soft pools of light across the home, making each space feel curated, cozy, and multidimensional—perfect for winding down after a long day.
4. Festive Lighting Ideas Year-Round
Festivity doesn’t need to be seasonal—it can be a design philosophy. Try:
Fairy lights woven into indoor plants or around window trims for that dreamy golden sparkle
Urli bowls filled with water, petals, and floating candles as a luxe centerpiece on your console or coffee table
Decorative diya stands that double as sculptural art, especially in foyers or balconies
6. Soft Furnishings
Use khadi or cotton curtains in mustard, indigo, or rust—these earthy colours pop beautifully against neutral walls and suit both modern and traditional homes.
Cushions in block prints, ikat, or kantha embroidery add personality to sofas and diwans.
Dhurries or handmade rugs in living rooms and under beds ground your space with softness and texture.
"In large apartments, like those in Hiranandani’s integrated townships, these details help bring intimacy into large rooms."
7. Nooks of Ritual and Rest
Indian homes have always celebrated slow living: be it through daily prayers, afternoon naps, or just sitting by the window with a cup of chai.
1. Create a Pooja Corner
Even if you don’t have a dedicated pooja room, you can still carve out a tranquil, spiritual space. A wall-mounted carved wooden mandir, compact marble altar, or even an arched niche with jali backing can serve as a serene pooja corner. Add brass bells, a diya holder, and a small storage cabinet for incense and samagri. A soft spot light or diya sconce above the altar adds divine drama.
2. Carve Out a Chai Nook
Design a tiny tea nook in the balcony or near the kitchen with a foldable table, floor cushions, and a tray with brass cups or cutting glasses. Hiranandani balconies are spacious enough to make room for such little moments that feel like daily rituals.
3. Use Low Seating Arrangements
Introduce gaddas (floor mattresses), bolsters, or diwans in reading corners, lounge areas, or even balconies. Layer with handblock prints, kantha throws, or woven dhurries for texture. This creates a cozy, informal vibe that’s perfect for afternoon naps, evening addas, or peaceful solo time with a book and chai.
4. Incorporate Traditional Rugs or Dhurries
Anchor your space with Indian-style rugs—like kilims, wool dhurries, or cotton carpets. Choose earthy tones or Mughal-inspired motifs to complement wooden furniture. These not only soften the look but also help with acoustics and warmth underfoot.
5. Use Bell Chimes or Temple Bells as Accents
Hang brass temple bells or ghungroo chimes near doorways, windows, or the pooja corner. Every time the wind stirs or you pass by, the gentle tinkle evokes a temple-like calm. It’s a small touch that carries deep cultural resonance.
6. Display Copper or Brass Urli Bowls
Fill urli bowls with water, rose petals, or floating candles and place them near entrances or living room corners. You can also add citrus slices or essential oils for a subtle fragrance. They act as decor accents that also invite peace and prosperity.
7. Introduce a Traditional Writing or Study Desk
Place a heritage-style wooden desk in a study nook or bedroom, paired with a carved chair. It could be used for journaling, working, or as a prayer book station. Add brass pen holders, vintage diaries, and a soft table lamp for an elegant old-school vibe.
8. Accessories
Finally, accessorise with soul. Even in high-rise homes—like those in Hiranandani’s estates, you can bring the feel of an ancestral home through thoughtful accessorising.
1. Brass Urlis, Hand-Thrown Pottery, and Metal Thalis: Adding Soul to Surfaces
Accessorize consoles, coffee tables, and entry corners with brass urlis filled with floating petals, hand-thrown terracotta or glazed pottery, and metal thalis used as trays or wall decor. These elements don’t just add aesthetic appeal—they bring in layers of heritage, craftsmanship, and nostalgia. Perfect for creating a tactile, grounded look that feels both curated and deeply personal.
2. Decorate Walls with Heirloom Textiles and Tribal Mirrors
Move beyond conventional art—celebrate Indian craft by framing heirloom sarees, kantha quilts, or mirror-embroidered Rabari textiles as statement wall pieces. Pair with tribal or Rajasthani mirrors featuring distressed wooden frames or oxidized metal to break the monotony of plain walls. These textures tell stories of generations, regions, and rituals—turning your walls into visual narratives.
3. Bring Nature Indoors—with Purpose
A tulsi plant in a carved stone or terracotta planter near the verandah or balcony, maintaining both spiritual and ecological harmony.
Creepers like money plant or devil’s ivy hanging near windows to soften hard edges and bring in freshness.
Indoor palms or snake plants in brass or cane planters to punctuate corners and fill vertical spaces with life.
"Plants not only purify the air but also add softness and balance to traditionally detailed interiors."
Final Thought
A home in Hiranandani might come with modern amenities and smart layouts—but how you furnish and finish it is where your roots shine through.
The goal isn’t to reject modernity. It’s to root it in relevance.
Let Pinterest inspire you—but let your people, practices, and preferences define the design.
Because the best homes don’t just look good. They feel like home.
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