SUBSCRIBE NOW
    • DESIGN
    • PEOPLE
    • HOMES
    • TRENDS
    • LIFESTYLE
    • MAGAZINE
    • ED EVENTS
    • Shopping
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • Youtube
  • Article Category: Lifestyle

    Artisanal food meets artisanal interiors at White Garden in Bengaluru designed by Tesor Designs

    Artisanal food meets artisanal interiors at White Garden in Bengaluru designed by  Tesor Designs

    Setting a new standard for vegetarian dining experiences, on the bustling streets of Kalyan Nagar, Bengaluru, White Garden stands as a serene escape from the chaos of everyday life. This artisanal vegetarian restaurant welcomes guests with its all-white facade and playful blend of textures.

    Imagined by Supriya Suriyanarayanan, Co-Founder of Tesor Designs and designer Josefa Jacob, along with the team of Rajesh Kudlu, Vinya Shetty, and Raghavendra KJ, White Garden emerges as a medley of architectural elements, natural materials and earthy tones.

    Whether in visuals or in concept, this inventive eatery stands as a culinary haven to unwind and enjoy a meal in the company of palatable vegetarian fare and pacifying surroundings.

    The restaurant is visually separated by veneered archways, and in the cohesive way the furniture, wall design and colours are perpetuated across the space. Custom metal pendants from Lumi and Archi Concrete texture from Asian Paints; Photographed by Nayan Soni

     

    Heavy teak doors open the space, live plants mingle with jaali pattern and geometric fabric to separate this zone from the rest of the ground floor. Brick highlights in white and natural colours bring the design together. Another pop of green is added with banana fibre acoustic fabric pendant light from Lumi; Photographed by Nayan Soni

    Stop by for tranquility 

    The birth of White Garden is no less than a design-led transformational journey — an old bungalow converted into a modern oasis for leisure. The objective was clear from the beginning, to cultivate an ambience that exudes subtlety, calmness, and richness while paying homage to the European architectural influences present in the building. The ultimate goal was to establish a distinctive design template for vegetarian dining, catering to those seeking sophisticated, culinary excellence.

    Brick stencils bring the intended tone, texture and materiality without overwhelming the space. Ceiling is painted with dark grey shade to conceal exposed pipes; Photographed by Nayan Soni

    The restaurant’s interior canvas eschews grandiosity and embraces understated elements and a muted palette. This approach provides the ideal backdrop for guests to unwind and savour the curated selection of artisanal vegetarian delights. 

    The existing Mangalore tiled ceiling and arches on the balcony are retained. The periphery is dotted with young plants. Custom fabric lights from Lumi; Photographed by Nayan Soni

    Harmony with nature

    Drawing inspiration from the beauty of nature, the visual story remains cohesive throughout the restaurant, while each room possesses a distinct character, offering multiple captivating corners for exploration.

    A life sized tree branch encompasses the entire wall around the window, in a natural, undulating, irregular pattern to bridge the indoor outdoor. The “branch” was crafted from veneer-clad ply & enhanced with lights that come alive at night; Photographed by Nayan Soni

     

    A bright door holds the promise of a gateway to another dimension. Classic black & white tiles are added to the balcony to blend with the pre-existing Mangaluru tiles, and the arched doorway is accompanied by antique wall lights on either side; Photographed by Nayan Soni

    The open floor plan of White Garden enhances the perception of space and unity. Veneered arches visually separate different areas, while furniture, wall designs, and colours contribute to defining each space. The first floor brings out a sense of playfulness, with the terrazzo table tops, candied pink chairs, and a striking tree-branch light installation that adds a fanciful touch. The alfresco dining area, marked by a vibrant red door, acts as a portal to an alternate dimension.

    “Vintage-inspired black and white tiles, ikat cushions, pendant lights, and lush greenery, all serve to celebrate the main character of this space that is abundant natural light,” shares Supriya.

    For an entryway with a multitude of elements – from brick arches, european columns, veneer rafters, vintage mosaic flooring and concrete light cubes – the outdoor area is an amalgamation of all things White Garden. A distinct, understated, welcoming palette of contrasting elements that find harmony in their subtlety; Photographed by Nayan Soni

     

    The hand-painted mural, a beautiful ode to the “garden” in “White Garden”, with carefully put together elements that delight & surprise; Photographed by Nayan Soni

    White Garden is a remarkable artisanal vegetarian restaurant in Bengaluru. Through its alluring decor, the restaurant creates a getaway indoors, where guests can escape the flurry of city life. The harmonious blend of natural elements, subtle textures, and sober colours foster an atmosphere of relaxation and togetherness.

    You may also like: Fondest memories are made when gathered around the table. Here are memorable restaurants which you need to bookmark ASAP

    Beer Garden, Vikhroli: Studio Lotus brings thriving greens and bucolic aesthetic to cosmopolitan Mumbai

    Beer Garden, Vikhroli: Studio Lotus brings thriving greens and bucolic aesthetic to cosmopolitan Mumbai

    A minimalistic, easy to navigate labyrinth-like pavilion extends into lush foliage. Deep verandahs intersperse comfortably in the magnificently built industrial expression, blurring the boundaries between rustic interiors and the sublime outdoors. With a skilful design direction to build a new anchor for communal activities, Studio Lotus manifests the Beer Garden within Godrej’s impressive 34-acre ‘The Trees’ premises imagined as a multifaceted project in, with the masterplan conceptualised in collaboration with Studio Vikhroli in the locale of Vikhroli, Mumbai. 

    Ankur Choksi, Subrata Ray, Shamik Chatterjee, and Sharvani Upadhyay lend their architectural prowess to contribute to the progressing revival of the whilom industrial project that is now heading towards a more community and environment-centric initiative with this redesigned 5,000 sq ft café.

    The sleek sculptural staircase acts as a backdrop to the outdoor courtyard, making it a great place to click pictures. It also leads to the beautiful alfresco terrace seating that has moveable landscape benches; Photography by Avesh Gaur

    The calm amidst the storm

    Building on the existing narrative of renewing and place-making, Studio Lotus uses the landscape extension formerly planned for Imagine Studios and transforms it into a quaint café.

    Nestled in the heart of dynamic zones abuzz with routinely movement of people and activities, the café draws visitors and residents alike with its intimate garden setting and two stylistic courtyards. The residential clubhouse, Imagine studio, the busy pedestrian corridor and the Boiler café surround the green haven.

    The café embraces uniformity and order in its architecture, using straight lines and consistent patterning; Photography by Avesh Gaur

     A confluence of courtyards

    Hues of brown complement the sleek matte black walls and brown stylistic panelling on the ceilings. The wooden furniture with indoor plants makes one feel like they are sitting under a tree on an autumn evening for a cup of coffee.

    Most of the sitting area flows into the intimate garden placed within two courtyards. Although a glazed wall separates the two, they seem to be seamlessly trickling into each other. Studio Lotus perceptively ensures that the two courtyards make the space more breathable than enclosed.

    The exposed ceiling stylistically creates a halo for the greens, enhancing the importance given to nature in the creation of this café; Photography by Avesh Gaur

    A peripheral fence envelopes the primary courtyard, defining it as a semi-closed space. A barbeque counter and an extensive bar sit in the centre of the room, opening the café to the landscape. It guides one from the entrance to a tranquil oasis of green canopies.

    Acting as a sculptural background with its beautiful pergolas, the second courtyard brings abundant natural light into the café. Unique shadow patterns dance on the wooden walls as the tall trees sieve the golden sun rays.

    Structural, polished curved black stairs add a glorious backdrop to the café, making it perfect for some sun-kissed pictures. It leads to the serene alfresco terrace seating that accommodates movable landscape benches.

    Comfortable and cosy brown chairs sit in front of the rustic brown tables to blend into the background setting of lush foliage; Photography by Avesh Gaur

    Urban Expression within nature 

    Studio Lotus imbibes Imagine Studio’s design narrative to underline the surviving establishments and the legacy of the site. The café uses shades of grey granite with micro-concrete finishes to tread the delicate uniformity of the space. The exposed ceiling and structural system highlight its urban expression. Bright red-brick colour splashes the monotony of the palette with some liveliness.

    The design studio resourcefully adapts an existing silo to make it into a kitchen utility. The silo, repurposed into a lantern, playfully juxtaposes the room’s rectilinear architecture to add a fresh touch to the indoors.

    You may also like: Everyday escapes — ADND concocts The Nest clubhouse by Lodha Group and weaves a visual play between interiors and nature

    The synergy of nature and luxury will proclaim to renew you at The Westin Resort & Spa, Himalayas

    The synergy of nature and luxury will proclaim to renew you at The Westin Resort & Spa, Himalayas

    Imagine waking up to the soft murmur of birds, a magnificent view, and the clouds drifting away quietly below you. With a scenic drive of about an hour from Dehradun’s Jolly Grant airport, I landed in the lap of simple sophistication and peerless services offered at The Westin Resort & Spa, Himalayas. After a swish welcome upon arrival at this stunning mountain resort with a Garhwali Topi, I took a heartwarming sip of the Burans tea, an authentic red-coloured welcome drink made of the state flower that felt like a warm hug after a queasy mountain drive.

    Marvel at the captivating fusion of modern luxury and traditional hints, and experience a world of refined beauty at The Westin Himalayas; Photographs courtesy The Westin

    The moment I entered this paradise on earth, I was mesmerised by the simplicity of the foyer, a mountain cabin-like feel of the lobby (just so much grander), the breathtaking scenes coupled with chilly mountain air and of course my home during the stay — the Garden Suite, it all felt like a cosy hug with all the possible comfort and facilities one could ask for. 

    The Westin Resort & Spa is poised 4,500 ft above sea level and spans the spectacular Shivalik hills of Himalayas, advantageously situated near the centre of the world’s yoga capital with picturesque views of Rishikesh and surrounding areas. I was especially impressed with the thoughtfulness of little details across the 141-key property’s design — a suave setting with the concept of biophilia inspired by seed pods and cocoons that elucidate Westin’s six pillars of well-being— sleep well, eat well, move well, feel well, work well, and play well. 

    Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and indulge in a luxurious stay at The Westin Himalayas, where stunning interiors are inspired by the natural world; Photographs courtesy The Westin

    A Tranquil Refuge

    This majestic sanctuary is designed to provide its visitors a haven of serenity, the swanky property amidst 12 lush acres in the foothills of Himalayas offered spectacular outdoor and indoor views with mindfully designed stay options that are comfortable and aesthetically beautiful, ranging from their humble balcony rooms, the garden suites that feature a temperature-controlled infinity pool and luxurious private villas nipped in a quaint corner of the property for solace and solitude, all an exemplary epitome of simplicity in a modern canvas inspired and surrounded by nature. I reckon it is in the details right from the sink-in bed that snug me like a dream (I slept like a baby), the service that is both intuitive and friendly — they actually took care of every little thing (said and unsaid).  Since my choices for the skincare items are comprehensive (being honest!) I usually judge if the basics like bath amenities are not on point — but at the Westin I absolutely loved the signature white tea aloe bath and body products that pampered me with utmost luxury.

    Enter a world of refined elegance and tranquil charm, where the majestic Himalayan landscape meets the stunning interiors of The Westin Himalayas’ welcoming lobby; Photographs courtesy The Westin

    An Incredible Gourmet Experience

    It’s remarkable (not to mention scrumptious!) how closely connected food and travel are. I (a foodie) often look forward to trying new foods and experiencing local cuisines. Food is a reflection of a region’s culture, history, and produce. For me it is a way to connect with locals and learn more about their way of life. 

    The culinary experiences at The Westin Resort & Spa, Himalayas were diverse and toothsome ranging from teppanyaki theatricals layered with the hilarity of the chef’s ‘bad jokes’ (I laughed more than I ate) at the resort’s stunning Pan-Asian restaurant Toya situated in a quiet niche of the property to the humble and wholesome Garhwali Thali that heroes the local produce — it featured ingredients like the stinging nettle leaves, fiddlehead ferns, and hisalu berries (which I had never tried and they were soulful!) generously served by the skilled team headed by Vivekananda Saha, Executive Chef, The Westin Resort & Spa, Himalayas. Then there was the resort’s Akasa — an all-day dining restaurant, located at the core of the property with a beguiling view of the infinity pools and beautiful patio seating, serving a delicious and scrumptious glocal breakfast every day which I relished to my heart’s content. The staff’s warm smiles and dandy service guaranteed that I was satisfied without being intruded on. Every restaurant at the resort provides a thoughtful, diverse menu that serves up both traditional and cutting-edge delicacies each made using premium, fresh ingredients and is artistically plated. Whenever you visit, I insist you try the Hot Chocolate Experience at the Haven Lounge. Here, the hot chocolate is both brimful and sinful. It was perfectly in sync with mountain rains and served alongside eclairs in sundry flavours. A globule of chocolate floats and reveals tiny bits of heart shaped marshmallows and puts up quite a show when a sizzling chunk of melted chocolate is poured into the cup — I can go back just for that mug of gorgeous hot chocolate again! 

    Escape to The Westin Himalayas’ Haven Lounge, where luxurious comfort and stunning decor come together to create a serene and inviting atmosphere for ultimate relaxation; Photographs courtesy The Westin

    Welcoming Wellness 

    A day here was like a wake-up call to mental and physical well-being that made me realise the importance of self-care and mindfulness.  I took a panoramic 15 km walk in the breathtaking Shivalik range and admired the raw nature in bloom. It was followed by a luxurious Heavenly Spa  back at the resort and offered options that included ayurveda massages and Balinese treatments . The skilled artisanal masseurs here made this happenstance worthwhile with her knowledge and care in a pampering milieu of beautiful aromas and fine amenities. After a relaxing spa time and a baby-like snooze, I went on the top of the world (literally!) — a gorgeous trek within the property took me to the most magical mountain peak ever seen, I sighed at the mesmerising view while listening to my favourite tracks and taking in the nature’s redolence – the resort’s trek guide who accompanied me had already put up a tent and cooked up freshly made tea and maggi that I devoured in a wink! This experience was peaceful, pristine and pure —I know I will never forget. The Westin Resort & Spa promotes a holistic approach to health and encompasses physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being with rejuvenating regimes and made my staycation rewarding. 

    Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas, as you step out of your suite and onto the balcony of The Westin Himalayas, where stunning views await you; Photographs courtesy The Westin

    Reflections

    The Westin Resort & Spa is a perfect setting and will capture your heart , it will compel you to lengthen your stay. Featuring a large, imposing facade that emanates elegance and beauty, and lush interiors that offer an inviting setting for guests to unwind and appreciate. Their traditional Indian ethos of hospitality shines through, making you feel at home and welcomed. Every creature comfort you could ever need is beautifully blended with the traditional Indian hospitality, making your stay an unforgettable experience. The amenities are second to none, and you’ll be spoiled silly with all the luxury that the resort has to offer.

    There are so many favourite memories to choose from that it’s hard to pick just one. The resort is a perfect destination for a holistay, and you’ll leave feeling refreshed, recharged, and eager to return. Overall, The Westin Resort & Spa is a beautiful, tranquil, and luxurious oasis that will leave you craving for more.

    Looking to make a reservation? This will take you to their website.

    You may also like: Aramness Luxury Safari Lodge in Gir National Park cracks open the secret of hospitality in the wilderness

    The new Sabyasachi flagship in Mumbai is an Indian couture dream become a historic reality

    The new Sabyasachi flagship in Mumbai is an Indian couture dream become a historic reality

    After creating many landmark moments for the country, Sabyasachi Calcutta opens doors to their largest flagship store. Sprawling over 25,862 sq ft within the CP Fort Heritage Building in Mumbai, a Grade II A heritage structure, it probes a larger discussion on the perception of history and our cultural aspirations for the future. 

     

    The Sabyasachi flagship store in Mumbai
    Interiors and Creative Direction by Sabyasachi Mukherjee; Photography by Björn Wallander

    Within this century old building are archives of a glorious past, some of which are older than the building and the colonisers who built it. It was 1913 when Chambers & Fritchley completed this neoclassical building in the Italianate revival tradition for the British Bank of the Middle East. Today it houses age-old Tanjore paintings, Pichhwais in the Deccan, Nathdwara and Kota style, Mughal miniatures, rare bronzes, 19th century Company Paintings and rare lithographs in the company of 100 chandeliers, 275 carpets, 3,000 books and 150 works of art created by the Sabyasachi Foundation. 

    The Sabyasachi flagship store in Mumbai
    Interiors and Creative Direction by Sabyasachi Mukherjee; Photography by Björn Wallander

    Acquired from beyond the length and breadth of the country, the space is lined with curiosity cabinets sourced from souks, modernist interpretations of Persian Qajars, 18th century Venetian handcrafted chairs, rare French Art Nouveau cabinets and arrogant brass sculptures made in Calcutta. Leather-bound books, Tang dynasty pottery, rare Canton vases and odd antiquities lie on retrofitted turn of the century furniture with fine inlay work, alongside the house’s now signature block printed silk velvet lined busts, vitrines and lampshades pay homage to the India and its subcontinent. All this and more, as the man emphasises, is yet only a ‘sliver of India’s grand crafts legacy’. 

    The Sabyasachi flagship store in Mumbai

    Aptly called a living museum in the present day, the space encompasses not the Sabyasachi Bridal collection and other finery but also the brand’s largest collection of jewellery in the world. Alongside, the museum houses a micro-exhibit from the Sabyasachi archive, showcasing couture from the inaugural Sabyasachi X Christian Louboutin collaboration Bater, 2015 and its sequel Firdaus, 2016. 

    The Sabyasachi flagship store in Mumbai
    Interiors and Creative Direction by Sabyasachi Mukherjee; Photography by Björn Wallander

    This juxtaposition of the old and new, colonial and regional, metaphorical and literal is perhaps a slice of history — events and exchanges that shaped the world. But theories, analogies and ideas apart, as history and modern heirloom continue their narratives, Sabyasachi’s vision for the brand stays constant, to immerse into timelessness with complete abandon. To step away from the everyday and embrace the decadence of age-old heritage and slow luxury.

    The Sabyasachi store in Mumbai opens on 18th April 2023 | Monday to Sunday: 11.00am – 7.00pm

    An Italian love story unfolds in New Delhi with Cafe Dali, one pasta bite at a time

    An Italian love story unfolds in New Delhi with Cafe Dali, one pasta bite at a time

    Rome was not built in a day and neither was Cafe Dali. It took Prateek Gupta, the Founder multiple Youtube videos in his basement during the pandemic to create a delivery brand which would become so popular that it called for a standalone cafe in Delhi.

    A vintage Italian charm with old school interiors, candles and chandeliers make for a comfortable ambiance at Cafe Dali

    Cafe Dali in Lodi colony, New Delhi pays homage to The Surrealism movement and its pioneer— Salvador Dali (artist, author and provocateur). The Surrealism Movement and its artists unleashed their unconscious mind and found magic in ​​the most unexpected places. Similarly how Prateek Gupta, founder of the Ristorante, brought the Italian culture to his home turf- a city of chaats. 

    Step into Italian ambiance, hospitality and exquisite food at Cafe Dali

    Cafe Dali takes pride in sourcing produce from Europe, Nonna’s recipes, handcrafted pastas and sauces perfected with time and patience. With Michelin Star Chefs and consultants, came a curated menu of gourmet food which is deeply homestyle and wholesome to suit the varied taste buds of the Capital.

    Your eyes eat first at Cafe Dali with delicate plating

     

    From huge libraries to chandeliers and portraits, Cafe Dali truly transports you to Florence

    Fresh truffles, the classic Cacio e Pepe, Rigatoni in Vodka sauce, the Lobster Linguini and Artisanal Pizzas baked in a wood fired oven are some of the many dishes of the customisable menu. The menu is tweaked on a monthly basis for creating a surprise element for the regulars. 

    Feed your soul with wholesome and gourmet style food at Cafe Dali

    Ristorante by Cafe Dali is all about Michelin Star chefs, picturesque dishes, a marvellous library, private soirees, elements from the founder’s travelogues and interiors enriched with Italian culture.  Who needs visas and plane tickets, when you can step into Cafe Dali, take a sip of their wine and be transported to an intimate ambiance of art.

    You may also like: Indulge in glorious food and nostalgia with these new restaurants in India

    Aramness Luxury Safari Lodge in Gir National Park cracks open the secret of hospitality in the wilderness

    Aramness Luxury Safari Lodge in Gir National Park cracks open the secret of hospitality in the wilderness

    Exploring the wilderness is child’s play for adventurers, and now it can be for everyone! Setting a benchmark for the new Indian safari experience, the village-styled lodge entrenched in Gujarati culture is designed with authenticity and luxury in equal measure. Aramness Luxury Safari Lodge is the only boutique lodge that borders the Sasan Gir National Park. Evolving as a brand that aims to protect the Asiatic lion population, it also delivers an exceptionally crafted luxury experience.

    Jimmy Patel, the Founder, along with Nicholas Plewman Architects, Fox Browne Creative and Field Works Design Group,  created Aramness, a 12-acre property that encapsulates the essence of Gujarat.

    aramness luxury safari lodge Gujarat
    Inside Aramness Luxury Safari Lodge. Photo: Aramness Luxury Safari Lodge

    Hand in hand with nature

    Aramness is Jimmy Patel’s dream project, “Over the years, my frequent expeditions to Sasan Gir with my family left an indelible mark on me and inspired me to develop something that would both celebrate and highlight the plight of conservation in my home state and further afield. I aim to do this through the delivery of an exceptional resident experience,” says the founder.

    This thought birthed a new Indian safari experience—the village-style lodge,  entrenched in local culture. Here, the last remaining Asiatic lions in the world co-exist with the semi-nomadic Maldhari tribe.

    Aramness Luxury Safari Lodge
    Tour the many corners of Aramness Luxury Safari Lodge. Photo: Aramness Luxury Safari Lodge

    Where architecture supports the vision

    Sustainability encompasses every aspect of Aramness — from the way it is built to the way it operates. In the building of the lodge, a clever choice of organic and natural materials is put to use. Sensitive to the ethos and culture of the region, hand-cut sandstone, sun-baked clay roof tiles and reclaimed wood were ethically sourced from the surrounding villages and Gujarat.

    In and around Aramness

    The driveway leads to the gates of the haveli, beyond which lies the heart of the Aramness experience — a village street, modelled with the similarities seen in nearby villages or nesses. To the left of the haveli, guests can enjoy a great deal of relaxation in the swimming pool, spa, gym, craft gallery and yoga and meditation pavilion.

    aramness luxury safari lodge
    At Aramness, a clever choice of organic and natural materials is put to use. Photo: Aramness Luxury Safari Lodge

    The lodge’s design is inspired by the characteristic local village, Haripur, which has central cobbled streets fringed with courtyard homes (kothis). Immensely luxurious and comfortable yet unpretentious and elegantly simple, the 18 kothis at the property celebrate the best of Gujarati design, with a baraza seat and planter on its street façade. Each kothi is a spacious double-storeyed building with either one or two ground floor bedrooms, a sitting room, and a luxurious and spacious bathroom with a tub and an outdoor shower.

    All the kothis have a cool shaded courtyard and a first floor verandah where guests can catch the breeze under the shade of clay tiled roof that overlooks the waterways and beyond to the dense teak forest. A small swimming pool, inspired by the characteristic Indian stepwells is constructed for each kothi.

    The guests come together in and around the haveli (traditionally a manor house or mansion with historical significance, that has a large central courtyard authentic to Gujarat homes) whose spacious and cool courtyard is fringed by the dining and sitting room that looks out over the beautifully landscaped, terraced gardens and a library. The key feature in this library is an original wooden lattice screen façade of the building that creates a beautiful vantage over the gardens. The library can also be booked for private dinners. There is an infinity pool, for all guests alike, which serves all-day dining accompanied by a fresh juice station, coffee bar and gola cart!

    Sustainability encompasses every aspect of Aramness — from the way it is built to the way it operates. Photo: Aramness Luxury Safari Lodge

    Going beyond relaxation and tranquillity, Aramness proudly hosts the guests in their spa, steam rooms, massage rooms and nail bar—the perfect respite for wellness and enjoyment. To match the need of gym regulars and yoga practitioners, the infrastructure is built accordingly to cater to them with a gym and a yoga pavilion.

    Located on our grounds within the original farmland of the property is a vegetable garden terrace and a garden breakfast pergola surrounding the greenhouse.

    You may also like: Bookmark these resorts in India that host adventures for your child and the child in you

    India Design ID 2023 is geared to open new chapters in Indian design with an all new perspective to design

    India Design ID 2023 is geared to open new chapters in Indian design with an all new perspective to design

    With a fresh lens to redefine Indian design on a global platform, India Design ID is set to unveil its latest undertakings as it opens doors on 23rd February. Hunar, ID Collectibles and Living Traditions have been curated with a sharp focus to not only celebrate but also delve into ideas and practices that are critical to the future of design in India. Here’s what you can expect!

    1. Hunar: curated by Preeti Singh, Brand Director India Design ID and Shabnam Gupta

    Shabnam Gupta, curator, Hunar

    Twenty leading architectural and interior design firms of India will partake in a digital exhibition to highlight creative design expressions in a 2 minute short film. With an aim to providing a comprehensive perspective to the work, the exhibition will celebrate the rich and diverse design culture and craftsmanship of India. Striving to bring attention to the extraordinary work that goes behind the scenes in design studios and practices, Hunar aims to inform about the craft being utilised to finesse a creative idea.

    ID Collectibles by Misha Banth (Curator and Head of Strategy)

    Modern design discoveries through the eyes of visionary Indian designers, ID collectibles features contemporary work made using traditional skills and methods. It illuminates the nation’s mettle alongside throwing light on the legacies of its past. Exhibiting brands include: Phantom Hands, Atelier Ashiesh Shah, Klove Studio, PINAKIN STUDIO, BeatRoot Co, Stem Design, DeMuro Das, Pieces of Desire, Design Ni Dukaan, JOSMO, TAKE editions, Project 810 and ORI/Folded Dreams

    Living Traditions by Farah Siddiqui and Natasha Mehta 

    Farah Siddiqui and Natasha Mehta

    The ceramic exhibition at INDIA DESIGN ID 2023 brings together a glimpse of the works of some of the top women ceramic artists of the country. As one of the most recognisable and tangible element of Indian art that thrives till the current date, the exbibit features intricate painted designs, highly polished bowls, animal figures, totems and more mark relics of art, history and culture.

    India Design ID will be on exhibit from 23rd – 26th Feb 2023. Head here to book tickets! 

    ELLE DECOR India rewind—Instagram posts of 2022 that served major decor inspirations

    ELLE DECOR India rewind—Instagram posts of 2022 that served major decor inspirations

    And just like that, ELLE DECOR India’s 22nd year is over. Before we set foot in the new year, let’s take a recap of all that transpired on our Instagram feed. As fun as it is to scroll through endless photos of beautiful homes, glamorous locales and creative projects, it takes a village to establish a feed that inspires people to hit the ‘heart’ button. 

    The year came with its own challenges, IGTV became obsolete, the algorithm went for a toss, yet we were ever-ready with your daily dose of design. From linking countless projects in our bio, to candid conversations, our Instagram sure has been a hot-spot and breeding ground for all things design. 

    Join us as we dig in the past with immense gratitude for what went by, and gear up to welcome the new design interventions with open arms. Here’s presenting the top 10 posts on the Gram, specially curated by our editor and driving force Mrudul Pathak Kundu! 

    1. OFF DUTY GLAMOUR ON THE #COVERHOME BY RAJIV SAINI

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by ELLE DECOR India (@elledecorindia)

    As all of India gathered to revel in the festivities of October—celebrating the good over evil, investing in gold (it’s tradition), we amped up our perspective about glamour through our cover story. Bringing a whole new dimension and renewed perspectives to glamour and opulence, our October—November 2022 issue set out to redefine the conventional. 

    On the cover, Rajiv Saini rendered a colossal canvas for art and furniture from across the globe in this home located in New Delhi. The customised dining table with marble vases from Milan caused quite a stir on Instagram as we were inundated with questions about the space. 

    Click here to read more!

    2. WHEN CONCRETE MET CRAFT

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by ELLE DECOR India (@elledecorindia)

    Beyond the walls, columns, beams and materials, a home is weaved with unwavering love and associations. This sprawling home in New Delhi, engineered by Verendra Wakhloo with interiors devised by EDIDA winner Ashiesh Shah, is an embodiment of the incredible blend of crafts and concrete. What’s endearing to see is the magic that unfolds when stellar partnerships like these result in such a fascinating space, combining the best of both worlds. Or how we like to put it— #BetterTogether!

    Click here to read more!

    3. SEA LA VIE—POSTCARD PERFECT MUMBAI HOMES

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by ELLE DECOR India (@elledecorindia)

    No prizes for guessing, what stayed with our followers is definitely the larger-than-life artwork created by former EDIDA winner Mangesh Lungare and his team! Whether you turn left or right, every turn in this Mumbai duplex unveils a picture-worthy corner. We invited you to jump right in and witness the sheer beauty and function of design that thrives on an organic palette of stone, marble, wood and greens.

    Click here to read more!

    4. GIMME RED

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by ELLE DECOR India (@elledecorindia)

    Oh the sweet taste of victory! After winning the EDIDA Interior Designer of the Year, reD Architects—Rajiv Parekh, Ekta Parekh and Maithili Raut gave us a ‘sneak’er peek’ into their routines and design preferences! Transforming spaces, one reel at a time, Instagram’s favourite designer trio share the belief that none of their projects should be visually identified as a reD design, only then can maximum versatility be achieved. Don’t miss the beautiful Green Niche crafted by ICA Italian Wood Finishes!

    Click here to read more!

    5. THE GOLDEN TOUCH

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by ELLE DECOR India (@elledecorindia)

    For our first ever digital cover, we embarked on a trend that is less paisley, more party. The brainchild of our consulting creative director Yashika Punjabee, we savoured a playful modern day feast that would encompass if King Midas was around today. Fit for that Diwali after party, gilded glamour made a royal comeback accompanied with charcoal infused foods and contemporary textures.

    6. LOVE AT FIRST SITE OR LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by ELLE DECOR India (@elledecorindia)

    In a quick-witted rapid fire round with us, the power couple of the Indian design fraternity Aamir and Hameeda Sharma spilled a lot of tea about each other and their craft. We visited them at their studio to know how and where the duo met, their love for their city Hyderabad and what inspires them. Discovering this unique side of Aamir and Hameeda was something Instagram had never seen before, especially for fans of Aamir, who follow him for his automobiles, it was quite the revelation!

    Click here to explore their stunning project, also featured in our October-November 2022 issue!

    7. UNDER THE COCONUT TREE IS THE PLACE TO BE

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by ELLE DECOR India (@elledecorindia)

    Seldom is a house designed with an agenda to keep its people outside its four walls. But when Mumbai-based Amritha Karnakar was faced with restoring an aged structure to suit new needs, she did exactly that. With this home nestled on the coasts of Kelwa, we introduced you to emerging names in the design and architecture spectrum who are breaking the mould of conventionality (and materiality) across diverse terrains!

    8. CONSCIOUS CHOICES FOR THE WIN

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by ELLE DECOR India (@elledecorindia)

    From Alwar in Rajasthan and Bharuch in Gujarat to Kelwa in Maharashtra and Delhi—all the homes carried in it the soulful secrets of building conscious homes for conscious living in locations that are simply breathtaking!

    Crafted by Shipra Singhania of Sketch Design Studio, the #CoverHome Mud House intently explored an uninterrupted tonal and organic narrative with locally sourced objects such as cane baskets, terracotta pottery, serveware and wooden storage shutters.

    9. A WORTHY THRONE—THE CHANDIGARH CHAIRS

    As part of our #SundayReads segment, we scouted for fun and equally intriguing stories on design, art and architecture. And since we’re talking about nostalgia, it’s never too late to learn about the inception of this legendary chair which happens to be everyone’s favourite!

    Explore more here!

    10. FRIENDS IN NEED

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by ELLE DECOR India (@elledecorindia)

    This is the thing about Instagram. You follow your favourite designers or chefs and ‘think’ you know them but catch them once on #CandidwithED and witness a camaraderie like no other! Pooja Dhingra’s home designed by EDIDA winner Ravi Vazirani was a part of our April-May #BetterTogether issue and we managed to capture the duo in their element!

    11. BUT FIRST, COFFEE!

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by ELLE DECOR India (@elledecorindia)

    We paid a visit to The Craftery by SUBKO and offered more than a sneak peek to our  followers! Visit for a lingering coffee experience and spot the monopoly of materiality with a synergy of brick, crafted metal, granite, concrete, Indian spotted marble, teakwood and glass. 

    Tap here to explore!

    12. CRAFTS—INDIA MODERN

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by ELLE DECOR India (@elledecorindia)

    For our greatest craft-throwback of all times, we took cues from this truly bespoke Jaipur-based home by Shantanu Garg crafted with the aim to project our culture beyond ethnicity by redefining and raising the bar of all things Indian. The biggest takeaway for our followers was how to dress spaces in the heritage of India, thanks to our selection of notable local crafts that will not only render your home in culture but also furnish aesthetics of modernity.

    Take a tour of India Modern and be inspired!

    13. SUNDAY SHENANIGANS 

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by ELLE DECOR India (@elledecorindia)

    Lastly, raising a toast to the year that was! Thank you, dear followers, all 282k of you, for your continued support, views, likes and comments. See you next year with more design interventions and IDEAS THAT YOU CAN USE!

    Choose your next lighting adventure with The White Teak Company by Asian Paints as it opens the doors to its latest showroom in Bengaluru

    Choose your next lighting adventure with The White Teak Company by Asian Paints as it opens the doors to its latest showroom in Bengaluru

    Lighting is an extremely important consideration—irrespective of the space being designed, it is hard to think of an aspect of interior design that is more critical than effective lighting. And with the festival of lights around the corner, you want every space to express itself, that’s what premium lighting is for! The epitome of premium lighting and decor, The White Teak Company by Asian Paints have added another store to their expansive list of outlets across India. They recently launched their premium lighting and decor showroom in Jayanagar, Bengaluru.

    Inaugurated by Mr. Amit Syngle, MD and CEO of Asian Paints, this store offers an immersive shopping experience for its customers and helps them visualise the space ahead of their purchase. This state-of-the-art store caters to technological trends to enhance the customer experience for its visitors. As a premium luxury home decor and lighting store, The White Teak Company by Asian Paints showcases cutting-edge creations that inspire designers, influencers, and homeowners alike.

    Premium lighting made better by The White Teak Company by Asian Paints

    A resplendent showroom spread across 3000+ sq ft, this space is the 13th White Teak store in India and the third in Bengaluru with the other two being at Leela Palace and Bellary Road, respectively. Located in Jayanagar, the store is strategically placed in a venue with premium and chic clientele of South Bengaluru. Designed to cater to this affluent residential neighbourhood, the store offers everything in lighting one would need to turn a bare space into a home.

    The latest White Teak Company store in Bengaluru

    The White Teak Company by Asian Paints is a one-stop shop for lighting that offers an array of decorative lights including but not restricted to chandeliers, pendants, floor lamps and outdoor lights amongst others. Moreover, it also has a wide variety of options when it comes to architectural lights, decorative fans and decor items.

    With Diwali just around the corner, create a vibrant feel in every room.

    The brand is synonymous with luxury and sumptuous lighting in the country and ensures an unmatched and convenient shopping experience for its customers. With highly skilled experts at the store to guide consumers in their purchase decisions, each member of the staff is adept at the work they do. Being a one-of-a-kind store, its charm and USP lie in its creative beaucoup of offerings.

    Each room is like a stage set in a play with its own unique look and essence and lights are a huge part of this makeover, isn’t it? Hence, it is important to achieve a look that suits not just the space but also you, and The White Teak Company by Asian Paints is here for that!

    You may also like: ‘From Craft to Contemporary’ by St+art India Foundation and Asian Paints integrates traditional art forms with the urban aesthetic 

    A sustainable bathroom is now a reality with Hansgrohe — discover the tips to splash sustainability in your spaces

    A sustainable bathroom is now a reality with Hansgrohe — discover the tips to splash sustainability in your spaces

    We are beginning to reevaluate our beliefs, practices, and lifestyles in light of the importance of preserving the planet for future generations. With improved technology, there is room for improvement in ways that conservation for the benefit of our environment can transpire right at home.

    Hansgrohe steps in here — the premium brand is synonymous with sustainable and innovative bathroom and kitchen solutions that save water and energy. Its deep roots in traditional blends and cutting-edge technology with eco-friendly practices lay out an impressive array of products that stand the test of time.

    Photographs courtesy Hansgrohe

    Being sustainable with Hansgrohe

    Putting limelight on Hansgrohe’s EcoSmart and CoolStart technology and water-saving solutions, the homeowners can effortlessly meld facets of sustainability in their bathrooms. With the innovation of water-saving hand-held showerheads like the Pulsify, Raininfinity with EcoSmart technology, environment-consciousness becomes easily a part of our bathrooms. 

    By limiting the water flow through the nozzle, one can save an equivalent of 8000 kilowatt hours per year—enough to power a four-person family! 

    Meet the beauty of water

    Technology can be beautiful and Hansgrohe exemplifies it with their latest strides. Their creations add not only to the environment but also visually maintain the feel-good atmosphere of this one space that we like to spend our time at. 

    The Hansgrohe EcoSmart hand-held showers feature a special flow control. Because of their ingenious design, only about 9 litres per minute of water is used by the cutting-edge spray nozzles. 

    While timeless with their finishes, they are available in different variants, making them a pleasing choice for diverse kinds of bathroom designs. This also helps aesthetically preserve the relaxing ambience of one’s private bathroom.

    Photographs courtesy Hansgrohe

    Several lines of showerheads, including the Raininfinity and Pulsify S, exhibit their ability to conserve water and cut down on energy use.

    Incorporating Hansgrohe’s CoolStart technology into regular living is a smart way to make one’s home and routine more eco-friendly. This mechanism ensures that when the handle is in the middle position, the faucet automatically delivers cold water. Resulting to this, no extra energy is used to heat water for brief on-and-off periods.  

    With the successful launch of Hansgrohe’s new line Pulsify, the brand converges the world of modern living and technology-savviness by being at the forefront of innovation, design and quality.

    Click here to explore all the ways Hansgrohe is making bathrooms sustainable 

    By using this website, you consent to our use of cookies. For more information, visit our Cookie Policy

      • ED AROUND THE WORLD
      • CAREERS
      • TERMS & CONDITIONS
      • CONTACT US
      • SUBSCRIBE
      • ADDRESS BOOK
    Nexiontiles