Design that Reveals
Design that Reveals
Creativity is my love, interior design is my focus. Whether it be full service interior design, re-decoration or even online design through Design in a Box, I am passionate about all things creative. Here, I will share insights into projects, inspirations and what's going on in the world of design from Calgary and beyond. Would love to have you follow along.
my bedroom reveal May 10, 2011
publications: my home in avenue magazine Jun 14, 2012
exciting news! Jul 13, 2011
I have never been to India or Pakistan, and likely never will. I admit I don’t know very much about the culture nor do I practice their religion, however these countries represent a part of my heritage. My ignorance also brings mystery and I find myself intrigued by all that they have to offer. So as I contemplate this (half) part of me I wonder if I am, or could be, influenced by this land and it’s people in relationship to interior design.
India is known for it’s colour. The saturation and hues are bold. It is a land where colour does not apologize for it’s strength and women walk proud wearing saris in the most intense combinations.
A stack of Indian fabrics in beautiful jewel tones and statues in the Chandigarh rock garden of Northern India made of recycled bangles. Source: Flickr, Kristen Savage Facebook Photos.
I love the colour combination and pattern of this tent-like structure used as a canopy where a wedding was taking place. Source: Kristen Savage Facebook Photos.
Women selling scarves and saris on the side of a dirt road. Notice the bright red shutters in the windows ~ an incredible contrast to the washed out grey building. Source: iGuide Travel India.
What I find most interesting is that these bold colours are set against a landscape that is brown, natural and almost desolate in comparison to the accents of colour in clothing, scarves and carpets, even the spices have an intense colour palette.
The same seems to hold true in the interiors that I gravitated towards as examples where an East Indian influence was present.
Source: House Beautiful
A neutral backdrop of white/off-white walls and natural wood set the stage for the colours and patterns that East Indian pillows, rugs, throws and wall hangings offer a space. Source: An Indian Summer Blog
I love the softness of these rooms. The combination of textures adds so much visual interest alongside the bright colours. Source: An Indian Summer Blog, Living Etc.
I am drawn to the bedroom on the left. It offers a modern ethnicity that is so interesting and I love the contrast between the white walls and the bold colour of the bed linens and artwork. Sources: House Beautiful, Elle Decor.
The neutrality of this room is so peaceful, however still so rich in colour and texture. Source: Elle Decor.
I do love a room that has an ere of ethnicity to it. It adds character, warmth and perhaps even tells a little bit about the people who live there, their travels, their culture or where they came from.
I have not infused any East Indian flavour into the decor of my home, however after researching this post I am wondering why not.
So I’m curious, have you been inspired or influenced by your own heritage, or culture enough to bring it into your home? Is it important to you to maintain a connection to it? If so I would love to hear about it. If you blog, perhaps you wouldn’t mind sharing a post about where you’re from and interiors that may reflect that. Would love to get to know you better! Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to learn a little more about me!
sharon laxon Jul 29 2010 - 8:25 am
hmmmmm…very thought provoking post Nyla! it must influence our subconscious some how, some way…don’t you think? I’ve oft wondered if I like lots of small rooms and many doors because of my british heritage…(as opposed to open concept)…It automatically means cozy to me? I also love lots of pattern… I’ll have to ponder on this a bit! LOVE it.
Fiona Richards Jul 29 2010 - 8:52 am
Ha, Nyla, you and I have the same influences because my mother was born in India and her parents were textile traders for 35 years in Calcutta and Darjeeling. Then they all moved back to Scotland and filled the house with antique Indian stuff which I lived with for 18 years. Even all our old family photos are taken in India. I’m so thrilled to see your inspiring pictures – makes me feel a connection to your work. Thank you for your personal posts – they are wonderful!
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Marsha Sefcik Jul 29 2010 - 12:34 pm
Hi Nyla, Thanks for the inspirational post. I have responded with a post of my own and how my East Coast roots inspire me when decorating my own home. I would love for you to check it out; http://bit.ly/dw4fQk
Cheers,
Marsha
LeAnne Jul 29 2010 - 1:20 pm
Thanks for such an interesting post!
I did have to think about this one for a minute. My Mom is German and my Dad comes from a Russian background. I know it affects my food choices in life for sure (mmmm butter).
Soooo… I am orderly, perfectionistic, love stripes in general, enjoy symmetry, and crave calm interiors. Clutter makes me nervous and unfocused. (ja that’s German alright)
BUT I make it a point to have something unpredictable, unusual and whimisical in my space. I always view my own house as to how things would flow when entertaining family and friends. (mmm the Russian in me?)
Plus I love France. Although I have no plans to invade it. (both?)
Makes me wonder how my daughters will make design decisions in the future, with my husband’ French/Scots mix thrown in!
Anne-Marie Aug 5 2010 - 7:10 pm
I love indian design as well. Those textiles you featured were incredible. Between my husband and myself we have six different nationalities, so we have decided just to be Canadian :) That really covers all the bases, doesn’t it?!! You raised an interesting question, will be interested to read all the replies..
Kirsten Aug 17 2010 - 7:03 pm
Indian designs are acually my favorite, I love the rich, deep colors and beautiful prints. There’s just something so lovely about all of it. … Great post!