India-Inspired Design

When I think of India, I think of vibrant colors, saturation, and stunning details.

When I think of India, I think of vibrant colors, saturation, and stunning details.  Indian architecture typically includes many elements that can easily be transposed to interior design.  Patterns and shapes can be incorporated into borders, fabrics, paneling, or any number of other accents.  When you look at Indian palaces and temples, the lavish, extraordinary details jump out at you.  Taking one small aspect of these details and using them in your own interior brings a touch of India’s beauty to your home.

Patterns of India.  Image via Wanderlust Drifted.
Patterns of India. Image via Wanderlust Drifted.
Palace of Winds.  Photo by Phil Marion.
Palace of Winds. Photo by Phil Marion.
Beautifully carved columns in India.
Beautifully carved columns in India.
I love the shape of the window and details in the railing.  Image via Redbubble.
I love the shape of the window and details in the railing. Image via Redbubble.
Hand carved antique Indian wood block stamp.
Hand carved antique Indian wood block stamp.
Stone carvings of one of the four gates of Dabhoi (Gujarat), India.
Stone carvings of one of the four gates of Dabhoi (Gujarat), India.

Another aspect of Indian culture I love is the vibrancy of the colors in traditional clothing.  I see so much life in the bright colors and extravagant details of, for example, a sumptuously dyed and patterned sari or an intricate henna design on a lovely hand or foot.  Add in gold accents and you have so much inspiration to work with.

Colors of India.
Colors of India.
The intricacy of henna is just incredible.
The intricacy of henna is just incredible.
Design by Preeti Chandra at India Fashion Week in 2012.
Design by Preeti Chandra at India Fashion Week in 2012.

Which Indian details would you add to your interior?