Indian Interior Furnishing Trends in Modern Homes

As the UK’s interior décor industry continues to evolve, it is not unusual to see some concepts borrowed from different parts the world. In recent times, Indian style has become a growing feature in some homes. From the variety of rich colour on display to bone-inlay cabinets placed in strategic parts of the room, one cannot deny the attractiveness associated with the eastern-inspired style.

Including Indian décor is common especially among the younger generation who are a bit more adventurous in expressing their style. According to a report by Fung Business Intelligence Centre Global Retail & Technology, the spending of the average millennial has increased twice as much between 2012 – 2014. Millennials who are starting their own house hold will influence the growth of the home furnishing industry to an annual sales growth rate of 2.9% through 2019.

To understand what is driving the growth, we take a look at certain features they imbibe into their homes. This article focuses on interests in Indian-inspired furnishing. The following trends are growing attributes in modern homes today.

1. Hardwood cupboards and cabinets

The growing popularity of hardwood cabinets has inspired the production of other items like serveware. What separates Indian hardwood furniture from others is usually the inclusion of bone-inlay in its features. What is bone-inlay? This is the delicate skill of carving camel or buffalo bone into wooden furniture and other materials.

The craftsmanship is passed from generation to generation in the Udaipur region of India. A typical handcrafted Mother of Pearl star chest with bone-inlay markings revitalizes any room it is placed in.

2. Knickknacks and Curios

More homes are opting for the occasional artefact in the corner of the room. A typical Indian home places items like woven baskets, lanterns and clay vessels in the living room. It doesn’t matter whether you actually use the basket, but its presence gives the room an artful sense of culture.

People often ask how can the arrange Indian furniture in a room? The first place to start is by understanding how it affects the personality of the room. If you are going for a minimalist feel, ensure they balance well with the focal point. Conversely, a more traditional décor will favour knickknacks like stuffed cushions or beanbags in the centre of your living room.

3. Bamboo blinds

The tide for modern furnishing is blowing towards eco-friendly materials and the bulk of Indian furniture is made from natural fabrics. Bamboo blinds from example, present a sustainable, yet chic option for modern interior designers. If you are wondering what Indian furniture is put in a bay window, bamboo blinds are not a bad place to start.

Besides being a darling choice for Feng Shui experts, the blinds give a lighter, freer ambience to the spirit of the room. As described by Amanda Poojal, “Imagine waking up to the beauty of sunlight filtering through the smooth slits of a bamboo blind. Nothing could be more refreshing in the morning,” she says.

Contrary to popular belief, Indian furniture is not as expensive as they say. It depends on your creativity and sense of style. You can combine different materials and still save enough for other furniture.