In an ever-evolving interior design landscape, a dramatic shift is taking place as homeowners gravitate towards Indian iconography. Paying homage to the rich craftsmanship that has bloomed across our subcontinent, this resurgence of interest is inspired by Mughal palaces, temple art and the prolific embroidery of artisan clusters in remote villages. This renewed focus is not just seen in traditional homes but also in modern luxury houses and luxury apartments in Bangalore, where Indian motifs are becoming a staple in both 3 BHK and 2 BHK home plans.

While Western trends like Japandi and wabi-sabi have dominated private residences for some time, the vibrant mosaic of Indian modernism offers a refreshing contrast with its ethically sourced antiques and Indigenous materiality. From mythological paintings to rustic pottery techniques, these elements imbibe a deep sense of history — envisioning more than just spaces to live in, but narratives to experience. This Diwali, we’ve rounded up five vernacular motifs that can transform your luxury home into a tradition-steeped sanctuary, reflecting the craftsmanship supported by initiatives like the Lodha Foundation.

1. Make A Statement With Authentic Handicrafts

Incorporating Indian handicrafts into your decor is a way to make a personal and powerful statement. Imagine a living room adorned with a mesmerising ‘Mata Ni Pachedi’ tapestry from Gujarat, known for its nomadic prints and woodblock borders, or a fireplace mantel decked with whimsical Kathputli puppets that harken back to ancient Rajasthan. When layering these objets d’art, it’s essential to begin with a focal point anchoring the space. This could be a large item like a Tanjore painting, which lends itself to an aura of opulence with its auspicious gold leaf flourishes. Surrounding it with smaller, subtler items like terracotta figurines or brass urlis imbues a sense of depth without cluttering your luxury homes in Lodha properties.

2. Embrace the Timeless Appeal Of Terracotta

From the captivating rooftops in Madhya Pradesh to distinctive Rajasthani hand-painted jars, terracotta with its sun-scorched, earthy tones, has been a beloved staple for homeowners across the country. Whether it’s a set of handcrafted bakeware for your kitchen or freestanding sculptures lining the hallway, these pieces add a rustic charm to any space. Tiles made of this modest clay are an excellent choice for flooring or accent walls, adding tactile interest and character to a room. For a more artisanal effect, consider using terracotta planters and more region-specific embellishments like the Bastar horse figurines from Chhattisgarh, especially in modern luxury houses.

3. Bring Rattan’s Natural Warmth Indoors

In Indian homes, rattan has been reincarnated in various forms, from lightweight, portable chairs known as ‘Muda chairs’ to intricately woven baskets, stools, and even cribs. A wicker chair paired with embroidered cushions or a rattan coffee table topped with a few well-chosen books can induce a sense of serenity within your reading nook. In a traditional space, this organic material can be counterbalanced with teakwood furniture, brass accents and handloom textiles to compose a tableau that feels grounded in heritage and refreshingly bohemian.

4. Curate Brass Accents that Reflect Your Ancestry

Borrowed from devotional rituals, brass decor can illuminate your design language with grandeur and cultural depth. Its buttery golden hue and reflective surface make this alloy an ideal base for crafting masterpieces that are not just functional but also aesthetically pleasing. Whether it’s a ‘Dhokra’ bust at the entrance or an ornate urli brimming with water and flowers in your Lodha Luxury real estate property, these pieces can transform your chambers into a sanctuary of elegance and tradition. Local brass artefacts, like the multi-tiered Nilavilakku lamps from Kerala or breathtakingly regal wall-mounted plates from Tamil Nadu, are the custodians of history — instrumental in flooding your prayer area with sanctity and spiritual calm.

5. Let Your Spaces Breathe with Latticework

Originating from ancient India and later flourishing during the Mughal era, ‘jali’ (or latticework) is the most iconic motif, whose appeal remains strong even in a contemporary Indian abode. In an open plan layout, jali can be deployed as a sumptuous room divider that maintains a sense of openness while providing a visual demarcation between spaces. Whether forged from wood, metal or stone, these screens orchestrate a play of light and shadow that uplifts the overall ambience. Jali patterns can be discreetly interlaced within furniture, such as headboards, cabinet doors and coffee tables. In a world where minimalism often prevails, jali offers a rich alternative—a way to embrace complexity within inhabited spaces, a concept appreciated by the Lodha’s construction projects through green infrastructure.

A series with Design Pataki