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Articles by Tasneem Merchant

The author blends modern influences and rustic elements in a gamut of kaleidoscopic shades

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Tasneem Merchant
Design

Heritage needs preservation, after all, it is an icon of the times gone by, the identity of our present and to an extent, the influencer of our future. Monuments symbolize landmarks a nation has crossed and times its people have endured. They are also an inspiration to artists. One such edifice that fuelled the imaginative […]

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Tasneem Merchant
News

Renowned for its indulgent textiles and rich colour palettes,  DCTex Furnishings  is poised to unveil a dual line which aims to capture the local markets. The Managing Director, Creative Product Head and Brand Ambassador of the fabric label share their views on the company’s: Latest launch “We are encompassing ourexperiences from across the globe into two India centric ranges: Platinum […]

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Tasneem Merchant
News

We wouldn’t fault you for looking twice to actually believe what you are seeing. Italian designer Edoardo Tresoldi’s steel cord edifices seem like an illusion – whether indoors or outdoors. His works embody the credo “larger than life”, as they are not just scale models or mere mock installations of buildings, but monument-worthy in their […]

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Tasneem Merchant

These designers are making waves with their innovative creations, from geometric planters to semi-precious stones as table tops. Work these brands into your home: 1. Cyahi Avrine Roy and Janhavee Sinh’s Ahmedabad-based online venture deals in everything from lifestyle accessories and art prints to home decor accents. Pick from cutesy phone covers, pastel prints on cushions […]

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Tasneem Merchant

Imagine stepping into a hotel with a history that spans over two centuries. Initially built as a courthouse, it was then converted into bank and later a souk for tea and spices. This is what it feels like at Ayana Fort Kochi, a 16-room boutique getaway centrally located in Fort Kochi. In its new avatar as […]

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Tasneem Merchant
News

In order to fully appreciate the contributions of technology in our society, we sometimes need to step back and look at how easy it has made our lives. Take for instance Italian kitchen firm Valcucine’s latest offering – Genius Loci kitchen collection. It’s innovative V-Motion kit is a patented system that enables the user to […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Edida

Over the years, Sarah Fotheringham and Maninder Singh’s homegrown label, Safomasi (a play on their names), has been quietly and consistently making a name for itself in the industry. Their whimsical, intricately detailed patterns weave a story in warps and wefts, telling tales of the places they have visited and vistas they have seen. The […]

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Tasneem Merchant

It is rare in today’s time to find someone who will appreciate and fully understand the value of your hard work. In fact, there are only a handful of people who will give you a free reign when exploring your creativity – be it a painting, a commissioned artwork or even interiors. Those who find […]

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Tasneem Merchant
News

Renowned architect Dr Balkrishna Doshi’s ingenious designs have had a great impact on shaping the industry and its thought processes. To celebrate his valuable contributions to the industry and the world, his designer granddaughter Khushnu Panthaki Hoof has curated “Celebrating Habitat: The Real, The Virtual, The Imaginary,” an exhibition modeled on the principles of the […]

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Tasneem Merchant

There might be no winning formula in life, but we do have one for the EDIDAs: Form + Function + Imagination + Risk + A Big Idea = Good Design. If you think your products and design have what it takes to make the cut, then participate now! The country’s most coveted design award is […]

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Tasneem Merchant

From being classmates at Cornell University and part of the same project groups to life partners and co-founders of ShroffLeon, Kayzad Shroff and Maria Leon’s journey has been an exciting one. “We started working together outside graduate school as well and participated in competitions. From then it was clear that we had a very good […]

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Tasneem Merchant
News

While many might find their source of inspiration in a person or their works, Nienke Hoogvliet has a rather unusual motivation. Through her efforts, she hopes “to contribute to a better world by creating something beautiful that raises awareness.” In order to bring this to effect, she founded her eponymous studio in 2013, based heavily […]

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Tasneem Merchant
News

Renowned Japanese brand MUJI is holding a rare showcase of its archival posters by eminent Japanese creatives such as Ikko Tanaka and Kenya Hara. When used in isolation, these doubles up as advertisements but together they highlight the minimalistic aesthetic MUJI is known for. Also on display are 14 iconic products including the Right Angle […]

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Tasneem Merchant

Every year, Ambiente, Frankfurt brings together the best and biggest brands from across the globe under a single roof, which leads to stunning displays of unique creations and innovative products. This year too, several brands put forth their best piece forward. Here’s our selection of the best kitchen labels and their offerings that our caught […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Design

Arpan Shah established his architecture firm Modo Designs in 2002, based on the principles of exploration, research and refinement. Modo, Latin for “of its time” is perhaps the best suited for the work done by him as his projects are contemporary, responsive to the environment and embody the fundamental tenets of modern living. His recent […]

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Tasneem Merchant

Our annual reveal of sterling products and superlative talent – presenting this year’s international EDIDA winners handpicked  by ELLE DECOR editors from 25 countries. Designers of the Year: Neri & Hu Shanghai based creatives Lyndon Neri and Rossana Hu founded their interdisciplinary studio Neri & Hu in 2004. The duo’s oeuvre covers almost all aspects of […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Design

Imagination knows no bounds. It transcends boundaries and even time. Proof of this lies in ace fashion designer Suneet Varma’s new collection of bed linen for Bombay Dyeing. His second foray into the home decor segment sees him experimenting with textiles in a different genre entirely – home linen.“About 10 months ago Bombay Dyeing contacted […]

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Tasneem Merchant

An average urban consumer’s purpose or role is hardly ever isolated towards one activity – she runs a successful textile firm and is also a mum who home schools her kids; he is a diligent marketing manager, but grows a herb garden too. With limited land being taken over by a booming populace, the buzzwords […]

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Tasneem Merchant
News

At some point in our lives, we have all coveted the stylish and well crafted pens from the Swiss company, MontBlanc. Now, they’ve given us something more to lust after. Augmented Paper by the firm is a specially crafted, Italian leather covered notebook which comes with its own StarWalker pen. What sets it apart from […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Edida

It is true that great things can happen when you step out of your comfort zone. When New Delhi based Suneet Varma, one of India’s foremost couturiers, applied this mantra it won him an EDIDA in the kitchen category. His Indus Valley series of serveware, realised for brand Arttd’inox, reflects his passion for the country’s […]

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Tasneem Merchant

It’s time for outdoor picnics and long afternoon brunches. Bring out the wide-brimmed hats and the flowy sun dresses for a lazy brunch with your friends. Spread out a blanket and on it, arrange stunning orange crockery on it for a relaxed meal. Carry matching saffron hued pieces or mix up its various shades to […]

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Tasneem Merchant

If you are not one for conforming to boundaries, then these vases will surely appeal to you. Lay to rest sleek, slender centrepieces and opt for these voluminous and striking objets d’art that flaunt what they have. Use them to house you daily dose of fresh flowers or give them pride of place on your […]

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Tasneem Merchant

For Pinkish Shah and Shilpa Gore Shah of Mumbai based S+PS Architecture, winning the Golden Pencil at the Kohler Bold Design Awards in association with ELLE DECOR India was a fulfilling experience unlike any other. Their widely recognised Collage home in Navi Mumbai garnered widespread appreciation from Indian and international design pundits alike. The unusual […]

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Tasneem Merchant

It’s time to spread some scarlet fever, at least in the bedroom. If you’re looking to revamp your snooze spot this holiday season, we suggest you really get into the spirit of Christmas and take to painting your Madder Red. 1. To deliver maximum impact, think about statement walls in the hue. Take for instance […]

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Tasneem Merchant
News

Kohler’s Bold. Art powered by Pecha Kucha saw big names in design participate in the short format presentation. Eminent names in the field including noted personalities such as Pradeep Sachdeva, Manish Gulati, Mark Bickerstaffe, Neeraj Manchanda, Praveen Vashishta, Madhav Raman and Salil Sadanandan, presented their views on various topics ranging from photography and art to […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Edida

Our annual round-up of the best in design that inspire with their groundbreaking forms–a result of meticulous research and hardwork. Presenting the movers and shakers of tomorrow–winners of the 15th ELLE DECOR International Design Awards (EDIDA) India 2016 Designer of the Year: Ashiesh Shah The multitalented Mumbai designer and architect has dabbled across all categories […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Lifestyle

Born from the belief that we should create to inspire, Ananya Birla started CuroCarte in 2015, with passionate and innovative change makers at the helm. A first of its kind initiative with design and craftsmanship at its core, the brand aims to reinvent by performing design interventions on rare crafts and adding value by making […]

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Tasneem Merchant
News

There is truly no place like home and only a few understand this adage as well as Swedish furniture behemoth IKEA. Founded by Ingvar Kamprad in 1943, the mail-order firm has been at the forefront of the global DIY genre for over 70 years. With a humble beginning of retailing pencils, pipes and postcards, the brand […]

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Tasneem Merchant

Not everyone has to experiment with several vocations to find their calling. For some, it’s just instinctual – an innate sense of where they want to be. Mumbai based interior designer Manmeet Arora is one of those rare people aware of the role they want to play in the world. Aesthetically inclined since childhood, Manmeet […]

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Tasneem Merchant

Cook up a storm with Italian brand Stosa Cucine’s new Infinity kitchen. Let your inner master chef free with in this svelte cookroom that combines top-notch materials and textures for a sophisticated look. Its diagonal groove cut ensures that opening and closing drawers is effortless and smooth. The unit can be customised to match your […]

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Tasneem Merchant

There is no better time to shop than during Diwali with sales, discounts and an unprecedented number of collection launches by several labels. In keeping with the spirit and to offer the shoppers more variety, Hands has recently released their new series of carpets – the Nouveau Collection.The hand tufted botanical silk and wool rugs […]

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Tasneem Merchant

It’s the time of the year when everything slows down to a deliciously sluggish pace. When the trees turn colour and shed their extra weight to prepare for a long bout of chilly winter. Here’s how you can prepare for mini hibernation periods on cold, breezy winter weekends – get your hands on these devilishly […]

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Tasneem Merchant

Can’t recall the right expression when talking to a contractor? Do not worry – help is at hand. This list of useful terms will sort you out when liasing with your contractor. AgglomeratedAlso known as engineered stone, it is a composite made of the crushed material bound by an adhesive AlligatoringScaly patterns appearing on paint when […]

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Tasneem Merchant
News

Ditch the boring cubicles for a refreshing change of office. A new trend of collaborative working spaces is on the rise with several outlets opening up in the city. So say goodbye to the 9 – 6 rush as you get ready to tackle another hectic day at work. 1. Awfis Their “Pro-working centres” are […]

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Tasneem Merchant
News

On the occasion of Frank-Lloyd Wright’s 150th anniversary, MoMA, New York, announced major retrospective of the multifaceted and immensely talented American creative titled Frank Lloyd Wright at 150: Unpacking the Archive. The exhibition comprises over 450 works spanning various disciplines such as architectural drawings, models, building fragments, films, television broadcasts, print media, furniture, tableware, textiles, […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Edida

As far as inspirations go, Lekha’s has the most unique answer – insomnia. “I stay up till 3:00 am obsessing about an idea. Later, I execute it. I don’t know where an idea comes from, it shows up in my brain from something or somewhere and I try to look at it from different ways […]

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Tasneem Merchant
News

What happens when one of the world’s biggest and oldest office furniture manufacturers makes an effort to reach out to one of the world’s largest emerging markets? A eureka moment ensues! This is exactly what happened when Herman Miller, the Michigan based American company decided to host its trademark REACH meet in Bengaluru. After successfully […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Lifestyle

In the past few years, the face of travel has changed immensely – from digital detoxes and adventure activities to health and wellness sojourns, tailor-made options to suit specific interests of tourists are more in demand. Those wary of the carbon footprint they leave behind when they head out for some R&R can heave a […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Lifestyle

The Watergate Hotel, which first threw open its doors to people in 1965 was designed by renowned Italian architect Luigi Moretti. It became the eye of the storm in 1972 when members of the Republican Party were caught breaking and entering the offices of the Democratic National Party, housed in the hotel. The Watergate Scandal, […]

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Tasneem Merchant

Here’s an easy hack for lack lustre rooms – to revive the charm of any part of the house, simply make use of a bejewelled frame. Treasure your favourite memories in it and place it at a strategic spot to see the whole room come to life. The best part? You can even cluster these […]

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Tasneem Merchant

Move over bulky flashlights and mobile torches. This nifty illuminator aims to revolutionise portable lighting products. Launched in 2013 on a crowdfunding website, Lumio by San Francisco based Max Gunawan has come a long way since then. From the outside, this Red Dot Design 2015 winning product resembles a simple hardcover volume, but the secret […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Edida

Marble might be an obvious choice for flooring, but who would have thought of turning marble into bulbs? Two-time EDIDA winner Rooshad Shroff did. His incredible Marble Bulbs won him the EDIDA 2015 for Lighting. The Mumbai based creative believes in pushing techniques and materials to their limits for spectacular results. “The exploration with the […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Lifestyle

Don’t let the rains halt your parade. Use the calm weather to get in touch with your adventurous side. Escape to a hilly area or a secluded spot with scenic views and set up a camp for a trekking experience that will make you fall in love with the monsoons. 1. CampStove from BioLite The […]

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Tasneem Merchant
 
Get this look
Left 
Legain goblet from Good Earth
Herald cotton and polyester by Carnegie and Viscose, polyester and linen pattern no 21305302 by Yasuke; both from Shreeji Innova
Velvet chenille from First Impression
Sonite pebble polyester and linen; both by The Pure Concept from Le Mill
Rhone 9 polyester and Viscose, both from Surprise Home Linen
Charm Gauze velvet and Delice thistle Linen; both from The Pure Concept
Chenille cushion from The Honey Homes
Presto Dof silver glass from Address Home
Punteggiato Madreperla by Rubelli
Dinard Grigio Azzuro by Armani Casa
 
Right
Digital cube Paris from Tranceforme
Wall butterflies, candle bliss grey candle and ceramic jar regally; all from Address Home
Concrete pillar candle sticks and ceramic gloss grey vase; both from Abaca Loft
Fibre rose pot from Le Mill
Mdf ornate photoframe and serated burnt wood candle stand; both from Contemporary Arts & Crafts
Metal and fabric rustic lamp from Magnolia
4898 charles ghost stool by Philippe Starck for Kartell and San 040 faux flower stems by Santoreni; both from Pallate

BY

Tasneem Merchant
Edida

“Ekta (my wife) and I were looking at something that was a more research based and design oriented practice. We wanted to stay away from stylistic jobs,” emphasises Rajiv Parekh, joint winner of EDIDA India 2015 wall finishes and coverings, on how Red Architects, his outfit in Mumbai came to be. “It all fell into place […]

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Tasneem Merchant

Taking a cue from nature’s endless designs, New York and Tokyo based designer Nao Tamura imagined Quill rugs for Spanish rug company Nanimarquina. Fabricated by local craftsmen in India, each of the handmade rugs is shaped like a leaf but is unique. “When you watch closely, each person creates differently; so every piece varies. A […]

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Tasneem Merchant

“I have wanted to be an architect for as long as I can remember; perhaps this was due to a lot of travel when I was younger as well as being exposed to a number of my parents friends that are architects,” discloses Cyrus Patel straight off the bat. The Bengaluru-based architect was one of […]

BY

Tasneem Merchant
Design

Editors-in-Chief of  the 25 editions of ELLE DECORATION gathered at the Teatro Franco Parenti in Milan to crown the winners of the EDIDA International 2016 in a grand gala. At the theatre restored by Michele de Lucchi, scenographer Francesca Molteni wove magic with her theme of threads, extending her vision of dancers intertwining with ribbons […]

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Tasneem Merchant

Somewhere in the bylanes of old Anjirwadi, Mumbai, a nondescript warehouse is the workshop of one of the eight Godrej Design Lab 2016 (a product design competition held in association with ELLE DECOR India) winners, Aziz Kachwala of At-tin. Step inside and you will find objects ranging from tables and chairs, to lamps and loungers […]

BY

Tasneem Merchant
Edida

Their creative backgrounds might lie in different fields, she has a degree in architecture while he has a Masters in interaction design, but their love for good design is the strong glue which joins them. Meet EDIDA India 2015 Tableware winners Parul and Mooshir Vahanvati of Pune based Rayden Design Studio. Their roads (and fate) […]

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Tasneem Merchant

On your next camping trip, don’t get marooned in the wilderness. These portable devices that run on clean, renewable energy are just the things that will keep you connected with the outside world. 1. Solar charger by Yolk The Seoul and Chicago based company created, what is touted as the world’s lightest solar charger. As thin […]

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Tasneem Merchant
News

From plain text on paper to 3D objects, printing has come a long way since its invention by the Chinese. Individual wooden blocks hand dipped in dyes were used to publish manuscripts and other documents. Fast forward to the 21st century and it’s now possible to do the same…with plants! Tiskaj Zeleno or PrintGreen is […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Lifestyle

It’s time to dish it out in style. EDIDA India 2013 winner Mudita Mull recently released the Geometric collection comprising sheesham wood trays with graphic patterns in resin inset. Mughal motifs and monuments such as the Taj Mahal and Humayun’s Tomb inspired this series by the Delhi based designer. “The highly striking and hypnotic elements […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Lifestyle

When it comes to constructing green buildings, Vietnamese firm Vo Trong Nghia Architects lead by example. A shining illustration of this is their Diamond Island Community Centre situated on an artificial islet off the Saigon river. Its eight pavilions combine cultural practices with contemporary architecture and also provide Ho Chi Minh City’s inhabitants a complex […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Edida

New Delhi based designers Gautam Seth and Prateek Jain of Klove Studio have been in the spotlight for their spectacular hand-blown glass chandeliers and fixtures for a decade now. Their steady growth and constant acclaim are proof of their genius with a material that bends and moulds to their will. The duo were recently crowned […]

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Tasneem Merchant

From designing homes and styling interiors to creating set designs and consulting with architects on projects, Aditi Kothari Kapadia has accomplished a lot in past 15 years. The Sophia College alumnus, Mumbai kick started her career under the mentorship of Phirosa Neterwala and 10 years later, branched out to start her own consultancy. Her design […]

BY

Tasneem Merchant

For the past 13 years, Asian Paints has been at the forefront of revolutionising the way hues are perceived by India’s design and architecture communities, while highlighting changing interior and decor decisions. Since 2003, Asian Paints through its ColourNext initiative has unveiled shade trends that aim to influence the course of the industry. Through extensive […]

BY

Tasneem Merchant
Design

It’s the colour of prosperity and growth, rolling lands and undulating fields, trees in all their glory and also envy. Be dazzled by malachite and get lost in its hypnotic waves and intricate lines that promise a setting unlike any other. What better day to celebrate the dynamic colour and pattern than St. Patrick’s Day? Bring […]

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Tasneem Merchant

Avant garde interior design brand Apartment 9, with six stores across the country, believes in design led manufacturing and continuous experimentation. Their range of upholstery, high end furniture and home accessories were on display at their booth at India Design ID 2016. A tete-a-tete with co-founder Anuja Gupta reveals insights about the brand’s participation at […]

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Tasneem Merchant
News

Indian stationery brand Rubberband recently launched their furniture collection comprising tables, chairs and even bookcases. For those who have been following the label, this might have come as a pleasant shock, but Ajay Shah, the man behind the brand, reveals that their furniture line has been in the making since the last four years. “Around […]

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Tasneem Merchant

One of the country’s leading textile brands, The Pure Concept put on a stunning show at India Design ID 2016, the fourth installation of India’s definitive design week held in February, in New Delhi. We caught up with one of the co-founders of the label Chanya Kaur who told us about her experience at the […]

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Tasneem Merchant

At the recently concluded India Design ID 2016, touted as India’s definitive design week, several independent artists showcased their installations at the NSIC Grounds in Okhla, New Delhi. Take a look at our pick of the top nine. 1. Old Love by Lekha Washington A play on materiality, the EDIDA 2016 Young Talent winner created a […]

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Tasneem Merchant

This year’s India Design ID – the country’s definitive design week – brought together several bright minds from the industry. A celebration of good design, the annual fair held in New Delhi acknowledges the necessity of creativity to nourish our everyday lives through our interiors. Here’s taking a look at the top 12 booths displayed in the Design Pavilion […]

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Tasneem Merchant

For over 14 years now, Tiran Driver and Nicola Gerber have been the driving force behind Fusion Studio. Their story begins in New York, where they were studying Masters in Architecture and Urban Design at Columbia University. Before they founded their own outfit, they worked together on international design and architecture competitions in countries like […]

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Tasneem Merchant

Now in its 4th edition, India Design ID, the country’s definitive design week will once again be making waves in New Delhi. More than just a carefully curated showcase of furniture, fabric and other decor objects, it is a platform that makes good design accessible to the masses. Here, one can also meet and interact […]

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Tasneem Merchant

“We wanted to design something that was quick for the user to assemble by themselves in their house. It is something that fits into the fast urban lifestyle,” explain Harpreet Padam and Lavanya Asthana, one of the eight Godrej Design Lab 2015 winners. Godrej Design Lab 2015 was a product design contest held by Godrej […]

BY

Tasneem Merchant
News

Like every year, Ambiente, to be held from Feb 12-16, will see leading decor brands across the world congregate at Frankfurt for the renowned trade fair. Visitors can spot new and inventive products from world over across three unique categories – Dining, Living and Giving. Organised by Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH, Ambiente Frankfurt will have […]

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Tasneem Merchant

“I don’t have any profound philosophy as such. The artistic and functional expression of a product is very important. We design each one to be beautiful, relevant, honest and useful,” says Saif Faisal, one of the winners of the Godrej Design Lab 2015, a product design contest held in association with ELLE DECOR India. His […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Design

After dazzling much of continental Europe, Sicis has set its eyes on the United Kingdom. The Italian luxury mosaic brand recently opened its first flagship store in the heart of London. Envisioned by Italian architect and designer Massimiliano Raggi, the 5,500 sq ft Victorian townhouse has four storeys. It has dedicated spaces for their many […]

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Tasneem Merchant

Paint a pretty picture in your living room with the latest range of cushions from Iqrup+Ritz by White Pomegranate. Inspired by the iconic Bauhaus movement (1919-30), the collection sports peppy colours and stylish prints. Designed by Harmeet Kaur Ghumman of White Pomegranate, these cuddly cushions are entirely handmade and are available in various hues and […]

BY

Tasneem Merchant
Design

For half a century, B&B Italia has been creating masterpieces for the world to treasure. Founded in 1966 by Piero Ambrogio Busnelli, the firm quickly rose to become one of Italy’s most reputed brands, setting high standards for consumers and furniture design. Through the years, it collaborated with a melange of leading creatives, from Patricia […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Get this look
For a rope light Christmas tree Rope Light from Bohemia Lights Papier Mache Santa Nesting Dolls from Mehra Bros Plastic Star from Local vendor
 
For a post-It Christmas tree Post-It Notes from local vendor Fairy light from local vendor
 
For a Christmas tree inspired by books Books from Om Book Shop Teak wood tea light holder from MoonRiver Fairy light from Bohemia Lights

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Tasneem Merchant

The soft spoken Mumbai based conservation architect, who specialises in restoration of heritage buildings and monuments found her calling in the forts and palaces of Srinagar and Mehrauli while travelling there with her grandparents. However, it became the obvious choice after her first job interview with Joseph Allen Stein, a great American architect. She holds […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Lifestyle

As the year comes to an end, it ushers in a frenzy of decorating, shopping and a laundry list of things to do. Let us be your Santa’s elves and help you set up a dinner that will save you enough time to go carol singing with your near and dear ones. 1. Novel-ty Items: […]

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Tasneem Merchant

“For me my work right now is a celebration, I really enjoy doing what I do,” says Anu Tandon, a Mumbai based textile designer, who studied at NID and has been freelancing for the past 25 years now. “Anything that happens is an added celebration. It’s not going to take away from what I’m doing.” […]

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Tasneem Merchant

If you thought that bamboo furniture can’t make for statement decor, think again. Italian brand Sicis has taken the versatile, durable and put a luxurious twist to it – a part of their new collection Siam, the tables are made of leather, ebony, bronze, glass, steel and mosaic inserts. The process combines artisanal work with […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Design

French luxury Furniture brand Roche Bobois recently opened their new store in Bengaluru. The 7,500 sq ft shop is home to their latest collections: Les Contemporains and Nouveaux Classiques. While Contemporains series features sleek, refreshing contemporary pieces, Nouveaux Classiques focuses on traditional designs with original prints and textures. This is the second branch, the first […]

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Tasneem Merchant
News

“We translate stories through glass and light,” says Leon Jakimic, President and Founder of Lasvit, a bespoke lighting solutions company at the launch of their first atelier at Bandra Kurla Complex, Mumbai. Founded in 2007, the Czech company completes around 250 projects across the globe annually. Seeing the scope that India provides, Leon feels it’s […]

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Tasneem Merchant

In the old days, when the only mode of long distance travel was the ship, people carried their precious possessions in sturdy chests that would endure the harshest conditions. As time passed, travel also advanced, so did the way we pack. Our luggage became compact and lightweight and there was no use of solid and […]

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Tasneem Merchant

The biggest dilemma when renovating is deciding a look for any room. It is especially difficult when it comes to the living room as that is the one space you spend most time in. Simple and uncluttered or colourful and full of character, choose a look and a line of furniture that speaks to you […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Lifestyle

Time to wine and dine and spread cheer all around. This Diwali, spread out a stately meal with glamorous accessories which, while opulent, are not over-the-top. Achieve quiet sophistication by striking the perfect balance between understated white and glitzy gold. Bring out your cherished china and gilded cutlery for this spread. Keep things fresh with […]

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Tasneem Merchant
News

British supermodel Kate Moss has turned interior designer with her first project, The Barnhouse at The Lakes by Yoo in Cotswolds, England that forms a ”luxury second homes development”. The project features five bedrooms, an entertaining deck and a private pool and comes in three natural colour palettes: Earth, Stone and Moon Grey. The interiors by Kate […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Lifestyle

It’s time to catch up with loved ones over home-cooked meals with easy-flowing conversations. It’s also the most hectic time of the year – shopping, prepping, cooking and cleaning all seem to loom over your head like a dark cloud. Banish them with this ray of light – our guide for a party tablescape that’s […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Lifestyle

Beginning next week, Singapore will be hosting the eighth edition World Architecture Festival (WAF). The three day-long gala at Marina Bay Sands will see over 2,200 delegates from 60 countries gather to celebrate the finest in interiors and architecture. Themed “50: 50 – Looking Forward, Looking Back”, the event marks Singapore’s 50 years of independence. […]

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Tasneem Merchant

Get your spooky side grooving this Halloween. These cool Skull speakers by Delhi based Spider Designs, founded by Rohit Sahni, can be connected via Bluetooth or AUX cable to your portable music devices to blast out your favourite tunes.Choose from different colours such as gold and silver in chrome plated finishes. Its 10 hour battery […]

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Tasneem Merchant

French designer Emilie Mazeau-Langlais takes classic furniture designs and gives them a modern twist. Instead of opting for opulent fabrics and gold leaf detailing, she prefers a simpler and readily available medium to craft her pieces – cardboard. Through the processes of bending cutting and liquidisng, she creates a veritable range of cabinets, seaters, bookcases, tables […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Lifestyle

There’s an eerie feeling in the air. Chills are running down your spine, your palms are sweaty and you’re scared witless. It’s Halloween and you really have no costume or gimmicks. Your partner will be home soon, expecting a pleasant surprise…. Don’t stress – keep it simple instead. Follow our handy tips, play Michael Jackson’s Thriller […]

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Tasneem Merchant

Most artists and creatives will tell you how they are influenced by the culture, architecture and diversity of a city. For his latest series for the sanitaryware brand VitrA, Ross Lovegrove immersed himself in the sights and sounds of Istanbul. The Istanbul series of bathware pays an ode to the city’s ceramic culture, ottoman geometries […]

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Tasneem Merchant

Tired of playing by the rules? It’s time to change the game. Take a pass on colour schemes and move over to the dark side. Build a charcoal den a la this Kunal Shah design, which features dark walls starkly contrasted with a white ceiling. The monotone sweeps across the room, broken only by the […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Design

When setting up a home office, one often seeks to find a place that is quiet and away from the hubbub of the daily activities of the house. What better place to work from than the library or study? Build a sanctum inspired by the meeting room in architects Sanjeev Panjabi and Sangeeta Merchant’s atelier […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Lifestyle

Don’t put your money down the drain when remodelling your powder room. Take inspiration from our DIY space and save time and money, while giving your bathroom a trendy facelift. A few tips to get you started…. 1. Reading Up: Drive everything up the wall, literally. Steer clear of the floor by mounting the magazine […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Design

A meeting room should encourage healthy discussions, co-building ideas and better camaraderie with people.  Why not build a similar inspiring environment at your home office? Pick and choose ideas from entrepreneur Sunita Namjoshi’s study designed by Rubel Dhuna. Do away with plastic and metal chairs and invoke warmth with wooden or cane seaters and cushy […]

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Tasneem Merchant

After a hard day’s work, a king size bed, plush pillows and a cozy duvet form the perfect ingredients for undisturbed slumber. Take cues from this bedroom envisioned by architect and EDIDA winner Rooshad Shroff for a show apartment in Oberoi Exquisite, Mumbai.  If you don’t like too much colour in your bedroom, try a […]

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Tasneem Merchant

Offered in all shapes and sizes, chairs can be a tricky thing to meld into the existing interiors of your room. We bring you an assortment of trendy seaters crafted by design greats that will never go out of style, showcased at Salone del Mobile 2015. 1. Cassina Designed by Michele De Lucchi along with the UniCredit […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Lifestyle

Are big loungers too extravagant for your small, humble home? These compact sofas are perfect for you then – choose between neo-classical, modern or ’70s inspired. You can either make one the centre of attention or place it in a quiet reading or wine sipping nook. Make your choice from our picks from this year’s […]

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Tasneem Merchant

Who needs a fire hazard like candles for a romantic dinner? Ditch the wax and drape this self-lighting fabric across your table instead…you’re all set for the evening. Italian company Samsara went the whole nine yards to bring DreamLux to life. They have combined a rather simple idea with sophisticated technology – classic yarns are sewn […]

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Tasneem Merchant

Whoever said old is gold is right on the money. Bring out the stash of refused fabric that you saved for your patchwork quilt, and instead sew them deftly onto your interiors. As an example, here are a few ideas of what you can do with your high-tea party setup. 1. Keep it Light: Pep […]

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Tasneem Merchant

Is a plain partition in your home staring back at you like a blank canvas? Take this as a good opportunity to turn it into a corner to hang souvenirs or memorabilia. Follow these three quick ideas to create an efficient nook. 1. Hold On: Get your hands on some stick-on pegs to attach to […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Lifestyle

Want to impress your date but all the restaurants in town are booked out? Here’s a neat idea: Have a pop-up at home. Try these innovative ideas for a table for two with a difference, and serve your winning meal with pride. We’re doffing our toques to you. 1. Flat Out: Clear out a shelving […]

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Tasneem Merchant

Throw out the shade cards and go with your gut. Explore a creative twist on your walls, accents and lighting – think kaleidoscopic graphic art with cheery colours. Here are three things you can do to liven up barren corners and let spectators be in awe of your imagination. 1. Make a Splash: Awash dull walls […]

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Tasneem Merchant

A cubicle-free environment works best for some. Think out of the box with your very own home office. Learn from textile designer Anita Dalmia’s space, which combines elements that inspire and motivate her. Eclectic prints in happy shades come together with a mix of old school and contemporary timber furniture, to create productivity encouraging zone. […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Design

To ensure productivity, an office space should reflect the thought process of the individual. All elements should come together in harmony to provide an inspiring atmosphere. If you are in two minds about going the urbane or rustic way, why not fuse them together? Take a page from designer Sonali Purewal’s office in Kasauli – […]

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Tasneem Merchant

Make a statement with an understated all-wood bedroom that has everything you need – an uncomplicated bed, side tables and classic lamps. Take cues from this warm bedroom in Pradeep Sachdeva’s manor in Gurgaon. To make things fun, spread out linen in colours that pop like this rani pink bedspread. Throw in pillows, duvets and […]

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Tasneem Merchant

Ebony and ivory can live together in perfect harmony. Even in the bedroom. The trick is to select pieces that are in black, white or both, but with various prints, patterns and textures. Take this boudoir in Yoopune’s show apartment designed by Sussanne Khan. If you keep the foundation like the bed and basic linen […]

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Tasneem Merchant
Get this look Ombre linen from Sarita Handa Burma teak bed designed by Farida Hoosenally Black and white mosaic tiles side table from Bungalow Eight

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Tasneem Merchant
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