How to Incorporate Indian art in contemporary living room

Table of content

  • Introduction to design
  • Feature Walls: Wall Murals
  • Lighting: Creating task lighting from Tholu Lamps
  • Using Art as Focal Points
  • Texture walls
  • Decorating living room through contemporary renditions of traditional art
After a day so dreary 
Exhausting and weary 
We all crave for a room
That makes us feel relaxed and snatches the gloom
What is it called , 
A room that extends a heartful embrace 
Walls studded with artworks enhancing the grace 
A room where families get a reunion
A space to chit chat, a space to share
Aura filled with comfort and care 
A room that boasts of warmth 
A room that comes to life: a living room , every homes pride
 

The living room is a sanctuary for homemakers, a restful haven for those returning from a busy day at the office, and a welcoming space for guests. It's not just a room; it's a reflection of your personality, a physical manifestation of your inner self. Every color, every decorative item, every detail tells a story about you. It's your ecosystem, your personal space, yet many of us overlook the comfort this space provides. It's the first place your eyes land on when you enter your home, offering a sense of solace. Why not breathe life into this space, making even the inanimate objects feel alive? They can become conversation starters, shifting discussions away from the usual topics like weather and politics, and towards a blend of tradition and modernity. The living room is filled with emotions, each of which can be expressed through its decor and aesthetic. 

To effectively convey this story, several factors come into play, one of which is the interior design of the room. This design is influenced by the room's color, texture, and lighting, all of which impact the emotions and moods of those who use the space. A key interior design principle that can transform the living room is the 60-30-10 rule. This rule creates a balanced and harmonious color scheme by dividing the use of colors in a room into three parts:

60% Dominant Color: This color covers most of the space, typically the walls or large furniture, setting the room's overall tone.

30% Secondary Color: This complementary color is used on upholstery, curtains, or accent walls, adding depth and interest.

10% Accent Color: This bold or contrasting color is used sparingly in accessories like cushions, artwork, or decorative items to create visual impact and highlight specific areas.

Applying this rule while fusing modernity with tradition can create a stunning living room. Each element—whether it's the color, texture, material, or lighting—contributes not only to the success of this rule but also to the overall mood of the room. Since the living room is often used for relaxation or entertaining guests, it’s not just a room; it reflects your personality and influences your mood. 

We at MeMeraki believe that we can help you create a room as a narrative you want your family and guests to experience, with a fusion of tradition and modernity. Let's delve into the rich amalgamation of Indian art, of how the walls, the elements and materials used tell a story about the family. 

Feature Walls: Wall Murals

 

Pichwai: The Embrace of Love. Image Source: Wall Mural by MeMeraki at the Kathaa festival, Hong Kong, 2023.

Pichwai: The Embrace of Love. Image Source: Wall Mural by MeMeraki at the Kathaa festival, Hong Kong, 2023.

 

Living room is the place which echoes with stories of love, laughter: the place which has seen the family’s internal quarrels, conflicts yet one thing that has always brought them together is love. So, why not have something associated with the emotion of love among family members in the form of a whole wall which depicts love. Something that would fit perfectly would be a Pichwai wall mural. Originating from Rajasthan, India, Pichwai is a vibrant expression of devotion and love.

A Pichwai mural adorned with lotus flowers can symbolize the deep, enduring love within a family. The lotus, representing purity and divine love, blooms in harmony, reflecting the growth and strength of familial bonds. This mural not only embodies love but also enhances the living room's design by establishing a calming color scheme and serving as a central visual element.

To see more options of wall murals you can visit: kathaa-2023

Lighting: Creating task lighting from Tholu Lamps

 

Ethereal Blooms: Red Floral Tholu Bommalata Tabletop Lamp by Kanday Anjanappa

Ethereal Blooms: Red Floral Tholu Bommalata Tabletop Lamp by Kanday Anjanappa

 

Lighting is essential in shaping the mood and functionality of a living room. A well-lit space feels open and welcoming, and the type of lighting used significantly impacts the mind and mood of its occupants. The living room, often associated with relaxation after a tiring day, should offer a comforting atmosphere. For those who enjoy winding down with a good book, subtle task lighting is ideal—a gentle ray of light to uplift the spirit. If you're tired of conventional lamps, Tholu lamps offer a unique alternative. Derived from the traditional Indian art form of leatherwork from Andhra Pradesh, Tholu lamps provide a soothing and visually appealing glow with their intricate patterns. These lamps not only enhance the room's ambiance but also serve as the perfect accent piece, elevating the 10% of your decor with their distinct charm.

To buy these beautiful lamps, please Click Here

Using Art as Focal Points

 

A full length Tree of Life in our Customer’s home

A full length Tree of Life in our Customer’s home

 

Tree of Life on an Accent wall

Tree of Life on an Accent wall

 

In a living room, often considered the heart of the home, this painting can serve as a visual reminder of the happiness and harmony that family and friends bring into our lives. The vibrant flowers in full bloom, scattered across the tree, symbolize growth and the blossoming of positive emotions, making the living room a true happy place. The colors and symbolism in the painting resonate with the joyful interactions that take place in the living room, creating an atmosphere where love, laughter, and connection flourish.

The Tree of Life painting, with its vivid colors and detailed imagery, can significantly enhance the interior design of a living room. It can be used as a striking focal point on an accent wall, it serves as a visual centerpiece drawing attention and setting the secondary color tone for the room’s aesthetic. It adds depth and interest to the space. Its large scale and intricate design create a dramatic impact, making the wall stand out and elevating the overall room design.

It can be used in different sizes and different patterns, Click here

Texture Walls

 

Terracotta and Lippan 

 

Handmade Decor plates 

 

The living room, is where warmth, comfort, and family interactions thrive. It’s a space where children's minds are shaped through shared experiences, storytelling, and nurturing environments. The use of terracotta and Lippan plates on the walls of the living room can beautifully reinforce this sense of warmth and emotional connection.

Terracotta plates, with their natural clay composition, bring an earthy warmth that grounds the space, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The rich, warm tones of terracotta evoke a sense of security and stability, making the living room feel nurturing and comforting.

Lippan plates, with their intricate patterns and reflective mirror work, add a layer of cultural richness and visual texture. The mirrors catch and reflect light, creating a dynamic interplay that brightens the room and adds a touch of rustic elegance. The tactile quality of both terracotta and Lippan plates invites interaction, making the space more engaging and visually interesting.

Together, these plates not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the living room but also infuse it with a sense of tradition and warmth, deepening the room's role as a nurturing and connected family space.

A personal touch to the walls

 

Handmade Decor plates

 

The living room, a central hub of family life, is inherently associated with a range of emotions- comfort, joy, relaxation, and connection. To reflect these varied emotional experiences, consider designing a wall that vividly captures different aspects of your family's identity through a curated selection of wall plates. Each plate can represent a unique facet of each family member-their favorite color, their favorite design, their favorite texture or their favorite artform- creating a visually captivating and deeply personal gallery. From Pichwai plates embodying love, to brass plates showcasing boldness, and Jaipur pottery plates adding a splash of vibrant colors, each type of wall plate brings its unique emotional essence to the living room.

Decorating living room through contemporary renditions of traditional art

Customized family portraits

 

Customized Family Portrait in Kalighat, Made by Uttam Chitrakar, Kalighat Artist, MeMeraki

 

To see more Kalighat Painting options Click here

The living room is the sanctuary of the home- a place where family members gather to share, connect, and discuss everything from daily happenings to deep, meaningful conversations. It is the heart of the home, where memories are made and bonds are strengthened. Incorporating art into this space can enhance its warmth and significance, turning it into a visual narrative of the family's journey.

A Kalighat painting, known for its vibrant and expressive style, is a perfect example of "art speaking words." Imagine a customized Kalighat family portrait, which reflects the unique personalities, likes, and dislikes of each family member. Such a painting not only adds cultural richness to the living room but also serves as a conversation starter, inviting guests to learn more about the family through the stories depicted in the artwork. As a traditional Indian art form, Kalighat painting beautifully blends heritage with personal expression, making it a meaningful and engaging addition to the living room. This art piece doesn't just decorate the space; it tells the story of the people who live there, making the living room a place where the essence of family is celebrated.

Cityscapes

 

Ahmedabad city in Mata ni Pachedi

 

People often choose to adorn their living rooms with paintings that resonate with them on a personal level- artwork that is not just randomly placed but carries a deeper meaning and emotional connection. These pieces often reflect experiences, aspirations, or cultural ties, making the living room not just a space for relaxation but a canvas that tells the story of the inhabitants.

For instance, many opt for paintings of cities or countries they have visited or dream of visiting, transforming the room into a gallery of cherished memories or future adventures. Such artworks not only add aesthetic value but also serve as constant reminders of the places that hold a special place in their hearts.

Take, for example, the painting “Ahmedabad city in Mata ni Pachedi” at the top, which represents the city of Ahmedabad in the traditional Mata ni Pachedi style. This artwork is not just a visual representation of the city but also highlights the significant roles women play across the city, adding layers of cultural and social meaning to the piece. Below, a painting of Mumbai is depicted in the vibrant and intricate Madhubani style, capturing the essence of the city through the lens of this traditional Indian art form. These paintings do more than just decorate-they engage viewers, spark conversations, and create connections between the art, the space, and the people who live there.

 

Mumbai Cityscape in Madhubani

 

By applying these interior design principles, you can create a living room that is not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful. The space will reflect your personality, cater to your lifestyle needs, and offer a welcoming atmosphere for both family and guests. Integrating elements of Indian art and tradition can add an extra layer of significance, making your living room a true reflection of who you are and what you cherish.

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