Article Category: Lifestyle

Over the year of spending time with family, we’ve found many reasons to celebrate every single person around us. Considering Mother’s Day is this weekend, we recommend you celebrate the occasion by giving her something she’ll treasure.

Jute Collection by OBEETEE (see scroll above)
Obeetee’s legacy dates back to 100 years. With an international existence, the brand is known for its luxury rugs and carpets crafted with perfection and love from experienced artisans across India. In addition to being sourced locally, Obeetee products are ethical and sustainable. The new Jute Collection, 2021 is the perfect idea for a fresh start in order to do your bit for the environment!

Statement Mirror by Hèrmosa Design Studio

Born in the niche of luxury home decor brand Hèrmosa Design Studio, this lovely black and white statement mirror is one of their most eclectic designs. The brand aims to dress up a wall in a way that offers an aesthetic finish to the room while maintaining a high level of product efficiency.

Misa Luxury Candles

Misa, a luxury home fragrances brand, offers a selection of scented candles that serve as a gentle reminder to invest in self care and embrace the little things in life. They come in singles as well as gift boxes! The brand only uses the highest quality of natural essential oils and 100% soy wax, without any added chemicals, toxins or dyes. Each candle is cruelty-free and sustainably manufactured, without compromising on quality and finish.

LAB x Neon Attic

LAB x Neon Attic pioneers the concept of furniture as high art and commits to working exclusively with local artisans to encourage India’s art and craft sector, especially during the pandemic. Whimsical and playful, their designs are inspired by their travels and international experiences. Ara creates a dramatic appearance with its colourful feathers and playful nature of the macaw acting as a focal point for this plush chair. Sculpted for comfort, this chair’s design has a firmly cushioned seat to provide exceptional back support for long periods of time.

Amalfi Collection by Rena Germany

Inspired by the vivid hues, rugged cliffs and cubic houses of the Amalfi coast, the namesake collection by Rena Germany, offers a variety of serve-ware including but not limited to salad bowls, sushi plates, scoops and cubes as well as dessert plates. The entire collection is made of porcelain and is microwave, oven and dishwasher safe!

Calmosphere from The Serene Collection by Vaishali’s Atelier 

We love the Serene Collection by Vaishali’s Atelier that comprises hand-painted wall art and is the perfect soothing gift, similar to a mother’s calm embrace. Not only does this collection add a sense of charm but it also exudes a minimalist aesthetic to your home.

Bloom Magazine Holder by Baaya Designs

Spruce up your reading corner with this stylish magazine holder from Baaya Designs. Beautifully organising your reading materials, this stencil cut holder is drenched in an elegant platina finish, Kick back and put your feet up to enjoy your daily reads!

Lito Collection by L’Objet at Emery Studio

A chance encounter on a remote beach sparked a truly unique partnership between Mykonos-based jewellery designer Lito and L’OBJET founder Elad Yifrach! A captivating synthesis of artisanal craftsmanship and global design, the L’OBJET + Lito Collection newest range comes just in time for Mother’s Day! The magnificent Lito series comprises exquisite tableware such as plates and vide poches, a magnifying glass, a magnifying glass box, a letter opener, a stationery box, a vanity mirror, a bookend, a vase, candles and a paperweight. The stunning pieces from this collection will instantly enhance the interiors of any space! These products are available at Emery Studio.

Created as a collection of discussions, experiments and influences around artists, architects, and artisans, Spatial Dialogues by Shrine Empire in strategic alliance with FCML Design Initiative (FCDI) can be applied to Tschumi’s definition of “architecture as an event.”

Bernard Tschumi, an architect, uncovers architecture as a sequence of occurrences that humans encounter, envisage, develop, or thrive with.

Through their collaboration, Ayesha Singh and Abhimanyu Dalal establish a syntagmatic series of languages, meaningfulness, and light. Arabic, Brahmi, Devanagari, Bodo, Khasi, English, and a myriad of other languages refract and innovate authentic spoken and written interactions.

The installation of an inverted pyramid by Ayesha and Abhimanyu establishes an ambience of spoken words which drift through the light, countering the written dominance over the spoken. 

Martand Khosla, on the other hand, has a dialogue with himself, questioning whether the square caters, defragments, or expands on. Martand is actively having conversations with the city, its scales, streets, and inhabitants in his architecture. He interacts with wood, brick dust, and metal—elements with such a pervasive and beguiling effect in the designed atmosphere of our cities—embedded in the clear sense of the material. 

For the past 20 years, Shruti Mahajan has been interacting with architect Ravindra Gundu Rao. Their warp and weft interactions have been sculpted through varying frames of perspective and components, culminating on the ghats of the River Reva (Narmada) in Maheshwar. 

Parul Gupta and architect Madhav Raman’s art emerges from their configurations of illumination, mirrors, and reflections, and the voids developed by all of these, but more of a method than a completed art piece. Making us wonder if their work of art an entity, a performance, or perhaps both?

Spatial Dialogues Exhibition will be on display until 30 June 2021!

A charismatic tranquillity and an overriding sense of calm make The Healing Centre by Sonia Gehlot a much sought-after destination.

The heritage space has been flawlessly transformed into a healing centre, complete with two counselling cabins as well as a space where workshops on spirituality, meditation and yoga can be conducted. 

Gehlot has accentuated the structure’s virtues—high ceilings, gracefully arched windows and rafters—by making the most of the natural light that seeps in, brings a sense of warmth and glow that enhances the meditative ambience. 

The heritage structure has been stripped down to its bare minimum and restored with utmost care (with the help of skilled workmanship) over a lengthy period of time.

The blend of chamfered wood and whites in the reception area lends an ageless elegance. The vanity areas are simplistic yet stunning. Plus, colonial-style furniture alludes to this heritage site’s iconic appeal. We love that Gehlot, a firm supporter of upcycling, uses refurbished furniture pieces in the interiors.

A more conventional seating space for the visiting counsellor is curated keeping in mind the backdrop of the arched window and the overlooking landscape. Gehlot says, “We were privileged to have a handful of balconies that had been transformed into green havens.”

Meanwhile, the meditation space is planned as an all-white interiors to inculcate a feeling of tranquillity. Its sunlit energy facilitates relaxation, giving wellness seekers a chance to relax and rejuvenate.

“Since the creative process favoured the meditator’s experience, the room has been intentionally kept minimal and clean, encouraging the exposed rafters, high ceilings, colonial-style arches, and scattered light to take the spotlight,” adds Gehlot. 

In conclusion, Gehlot shares insight into her emotive design philosophy: “While designing spaces, my key concern is the emotion I like to orchestrate for the audience, which becomes my guiding force.”

Delectable cuisine paired with a captivating ambience! What more could you need to sort out the weekend? Our list of restaurant recommendations includes some of the coolest eateries across the country!

Bastian, Mumbai
The renowned seafood restaurant opens up a brand new and revamped avatar at Worli with a brazenly visionary architecture style. The latest outpost co-owned by Ranjeet Bindra and actor Shilpa Shetty Kundra boasts a 40ft-high ceiling and a 28ft-tall bar that’s accessed through a funky elevator with art deco flourishes. Multiple seating areas, a bar lounge and a private dining section are all part of the luxurious decor. 

Bastian menu’s distinct quasi-Asian and edgy-Californian flavours have now expanded to an even more diverse palette. Mexican, Latin American, Colonial, and European elements have been skillfully incorporated into an immensely extensive vegetarian and vegan menu. 

Notomoro, Udaipur

This rooftop resto bar cafe is located in the stunning City of Lakes. Designed by Gaurav Kharkar and Associates, it features rustic grey floor tiles contrasted with vivid yellow, black and white mosaic tiles, and red fire bricks for a balanced ambience. Colour pops in the form of cushions, a vertical greenhouse and the bricks, all of which contrast against the neutral backdrop.

Plum by Bent Chair, Mumbai

This one-of-a-kind dining and retail experience in Bandra offers delectable pan-Asian cuisine. Spread over 4,000 sq ft, the bar and sushi counter are created using a multicoloured brick-pattern art stone that fades to monochrome as it darkens. RGB lights alter the designs on the wallpaper behind the bar and in the sushi corner, and funky ‘bug’ lights fly around the ceiling. On the whole, the interiors of the restaurant are plum-hued in keeping with its moniker! 

Queensline Sea Yah, Mumbai

An Istanbul river cruise ship was transformed by SDM Architects into a 75-seater floating restaurant in Mumbai. The four-levelled vessel houses an open-air bar, dance lounge and VIP room. Indian teak, brass and wood embody the rich Indian maritime palette. Quirky elements such as a brass sculpture of a blue whale skeleton, a staircase inspired by a spine and rib structural skeleton are some of the key highlights of a meal onboard. 

Split Bean Cafe, Indore

Located in Indore’s C21 Business Park, this cafe is curated by Atelier Earth such that there’s a surprise for patrons in every corner! Each section within this 4,700 sq ft venue is distinguished by distinct flooring. We love the use of decor elements such as the exquisite bird cages, artificial greenery, pink flowers, Moroccan flooring, frosted glass ball lamps, emerald green leather sofa and Prussian blue velvet chairs.

Social With Distancing, Delhi

India’s first Covid response restaurant and bar opened up in the capital city of Delhi. The 4,400 sq ft venue, part of Riyaaz Amlani’s Social properties, is designed by Renesa Architecture Design Interiors Studio to respond to the “new normal” with the help of natural materials and softwood tones. Tonal hues, an array of greens and rice brick wall textures help create a simple yet rejuvenating appearance. Plus, organic cane furniture and lighting perfectly balance the light interiors. 

The BBQ Company, Delhi

This unconventional, live BBQ restaurant by Design Ethics Architecture Studio (DAC) is divided into three zones—one for private dining and two for open seating. The aesthetic exemplifies ‘yin and yang’ through the use of turquoise against muted shades. The foundation canvas is kept neutral (white, grey, soft brown and nude), which is refreshed by placing fresh plants and creepers.

TORI, Mumbai

Tori brings Latin Asian flavours to Bandra. Launched by Chef Thomas Catley and serial restaurateur Abhayraj Singh Kohli, this venture blends two cultures that results in an unparalleled experience. Tori’s philosophy is uncomplicated: a dish’s intensity is calculated by its main elements. These plates are served in a space designed by Gauri Khan in collaboration with Kohli and his creative wife. We love the Asian-inspired murals on the outdoor walls as well as the metallic sculptures seen inside. 

The House of Celeste, Gurugram

This extraordinary dining space planned by Studio Lotus brings India’s multiculturalism to the fore. It features multiple seating arrangements indoors and outdoors. One of our favourites are the fine-dine zone with royal blue walls, circular mirrors and animal statuettes. Another is the private dining area christened Pinjra that boosts diner’s sensory experience of being in a birdcage. Then, there’s the Cabinet of Stories, portrayed against a verdant wallpaper, featuring flora, fauna and foliage graphics.

OCTA, Kolkata

Designed by scenographer Swarup Dutta, OCTA adheres to a spritely theme by merging industrial elements with 1960s geometric accents impacted by Verner Panton’s work. A pop of yellow punctuates the predominantly grey and metallic palette. The bar counter uses a pegging style with a geometric pattern built using repurposed industrial components. To complete the look, a low seating arrangement is planned using old industrial era furniture, where faux tan leather upholstery complements the use of copper tints. 

Banquet of Hoshena, Mumbai

A theatrical dinner setting is now on offer at Ramee Guestline Juhu. The Banquet of Hoshena, a multi-sensory experience is directed by Nadine Beshir in collaboration with Studio McGuire, which takes diners on an engaging voyage over a seven-course set meal, using technology, multicoloured visuals, conceptual props and delicious fare. Enter a mystical universe that is illuminated, iridescent and full of drama!

With Women’s Day right around the corner, we’ve made a selection of gifting ideas—many of them are created by women!—that are sure to make the day a special one for loved ones…

Towels from Etisha Collective

We love these luxurious handwoven towels by designer Etisha Pipada’s venture Etisha Collective! The collection employs 17th-century techniques, preserved in the Ottoman weaving heritage, and includes a range of towels that are cosy enough to curl up in! 

The Enchanted Collection by Namak India

Father-daughter duo Aditi Gupta and Ajay Gupta present The Enchanted Collection to spruce up home interiors. The series includes creative and chic pieces, including this Horse Bookend, which is an ideal choice for avid readers!

Mahal T-Light Holder from Artisan Lab

Perhaps one of the prettiest gifts, this solid marble piece by sisters Noor Sethi and Neimat Sethi is influenced by the enigmatic alcoves of lost tombs and Marrakesh’s fascinating culture. 

Brass planters from P-TAL

Along with the Thatheras of Jandiala Guru in Punjab, Aditya Agrawal presents brass planters that are shaped like flower pots and boast hammered bottoms in keeping with the conventional lines of ranjan. 

Green Breathers by DBEL Studio

DBEL’s Green Breathers is a lighting design concept, which blends energy-efficient LED lights with planters for a cool effect. These are minimalist, elegant and suitable for contemporary landscaping indoors. 

Saphed collection from The Calico Guild

Ashni Tapuriah Shah and Sanna Daya Hasan have created a selection of cushion covers and a throw for their brand’s Saphed collection. The stylish series pays an ode to the picturesque white salt desert of Kachchh, and also takes cues from the region’s heritage for each of its airy and tropical piece.

The Paro Collection by GoodEarth

Indulge in the goodness of organic cotton bedding, which is better for your skin, wellbeing as well as the earth. As we’ve come to expect only excellence from Anita and Simran Lal, it’s unsurprisingly that Paro’s entire bedding range is made from GOTS certified organic cotton which promises a luxurious, good night’s sleep!

OSYNLIG Collection by IKEA 

IKEA launches OSYNLIG, an exclusive limited series of candles, in collaboration with Ben Gorham, the founder of luxury fragrance and fashion house Byredo. The edition includes an array of 13 fragrances ranging from fresh, floral and woody—and are a real treat whether it’s Women’s Day or not!

Steel Over The Top by Linchpins Designs

Architect and industrial designer Charu Priya, who founded this brand, presents a series of stainless steel accessories in 3D geometry. She uses the green and recyclable material to produce designs that are unique and artistic such as the Geo salt and pepper shakers.

Sabre side table by Colonial Collections

Nilofer and Reshad Rustomji’s 1990-established Colonial Collections presents a wide array of furniture and furnishings. Among these, one of our favourites (and we have many!) is this Sabre side table, which is made in stainless steel with a champagne finish topped off with a brown mirror top.

Kala Cotton Linen from Ikai Asai

Founder Ananya Birla and CEO Kanupriya Verma have spearheaded this range of table linen in Kala Cotton, one of the most carbon efficient in the world. It draws inspiration from the seasonal wetlands of Gujarat and is an excellent way to bring a bit of our past into our present.

Le Motif L’amour Water Bottle from Wonderchef

With temperatures rising, hydration is the key to good health and we recommend Wonderchef’s portable Le Motif L’amour water bottle, which comes with a high-grade 304 stainless steel spill and leak proof body.

The Beehive Collection by L’Objet from Emery Studio

The Beehive Collection by L’Objet from Emery Studio pays homage to nature’s most admired creatures, employing the geometric design of beehives with a vivid gold hue of honey. We love the single wick paraffin wax Beehive candle, which is made using porcelain and 24 carat gold! Isn’t it the perfect way of adding sweetness to Women’s Day?

Amaranthine Collection by Libellule

Woman’s day will be incomplete without flowers! Made of 75% foraged, dried and lovingly repurposed materials, the collection has a longer shelf life than traditional arrangements, these beautiful arrangements are everlasting and sophisticated. A perfect gift for the women in your life!

The Forest Essentials Room Surround Spray

These surround sprays use the essential oils of fresh Sweet Orange, Grapefruit & Ginger, which are blended together to create a fragrance that refreshes and uplifts the mood!

The turmoil of 2020 has made us truly value our life, priorities and the essence of our home. And the Nest exhibition at Threshold Art Gallery—founded in 1997 by Tunty Chauhan—embodies this element. 

The words ‘nest’ and ‘nesting’ are no longer used only in the context of birds. Indeed, these expressions have come to be symbolically, allegorically associated with all those who’re fascinated with the conception of the nest. Gharonda, baserā and nīḍ are some of the ways the concept is referenced in Hindi.

Regardless of the many languages that have specific terms for it, the principle and purpose remains universal. It is a place that offers the identical warmth and affection of a welcoming atmosphere…an impression of community, stability and comfort.

Chauhan and Prayag Shukla—poet, writer, art historian, curator, translator and editor—have carefully curated this exhibit. They’ve included the works of 10 of India’s best known artists for this month-long exhibition at the Delhi-based Threshold Art Gallery.

The participating artists include Anindita Bhattacharya, Jayashree Chakravarty, Manisha Gera Baswani, Nilima Sheikh, Pandit Khairnar, Pooja Iranna, Rajendra Tiku, Sudhir Patwardhan, Suneet Ghildial and Yashwant Deshmukh.

The exhibition begins on March 1, 2021 for the entire month at Threshold Art Gallery

The 1993-founded art foundation DAG encompasses several sectors—museums, art galleries, exhibits, publishing, libraries, etc, with programmes for the specially abled. And we’re super excited about this historic exhibition titled Ways of Seeing, which showcases over 150 works that mirrors India’s contemporary art phenomenon.

This DAG exhibit brings back into focus concepts such as scopophilia or the pleasure of looking at something or someone with reference to the gazer and the gazed. It explores the subtle distinctions in the ways that artists of both sexes create and experience art.

Ways of Seeing is divided into two parts. The first, Women Artists, features 22 prominent artists, including Sunayani Devi, Devyani Krishna, Amrita Sher-Gil and Rekha Rodwittiya, to name a few. While the second is Women as Muse and includes 32 names such as MV Dhurandhar, Jamini Roy, FN Souza, MF Husain and Jogen Chowdhury. 

The exhibition discusses the implicit distinctions between the approaches of artists from both genders and how they produce and interpret art.

It is as far from the fact as it can be that ‘male artists paint entirely female subjects’ but the voyeuristic intention of the male gaze is undoubtedly more conspicuous in their artwork. It does seem that female Indian artists paint differently, although they have not refrained from illustrating the nude body. However, the divergence lies in their desire to convert the body into a manifestation of their potentially feminist interpretation. For women artists, the female figure is rather an opportunity for inquiry into societal disillusionment.

The showcase represents artists born in the second half of the 19th century all the way to those born in the mid-20th century—India’s most revolutionary period in terms of contemporary art, which saw the exploration of concepts, techniques and formats.

“With this show, DAG looks at two aspects that define the gaze. Women artists, their examinations of their own bodies as well as the territories of art they occupy. This would have remained incomplete without the male artists and their surveillance of the female body. It was necessary to confine the work of these artists with reference to women, suggesting a skew that does not necessarily denote their wider canvas of work or view. But it was essential to establish the confrontation between the male gaze and the female gaze as real—and evident,” shares Ashish Anand, CEO and MD, DAG.

The discerning eye calls out the differences between the “gaze” of female and male artists among the 150 artworks that are on display. In Women Artists, although most portray the nude body, the gaze is not unscrupulous but is considered to be part of a humanitarian paradigm. Whereas in Women as Muse, the emphasis is primarily on the observation of women as a subject. 

Ways of Seeing is open for public viewing online as well as at DAG (The Claridges, Delhi) till March 7, 2021

This season of love, adorn your home with decor and artefacts devoted to the theme of romance. Our Valentine’s Day recommendations are sure to win hearts!

Valentine’s Day decor by I’m The Centre for Applied Arts
Choose Parisian and vintage themed decor (see scroll above) such as the Blush armchair, the Venn Table, Crimson Pleats Chair to add a touch of romance to interiors.

MAD et LEN by The Pure Concept Home

MAD et LEN enchants and enthrals with experimental fragrances. Designers Sandra and Alexandre have drawn inspiration from their global travels and chosen exquisite seasonal materials for this Pot Pourri Apothicaire and Parfumage De Chambre.

Kitched at Discern Living

Check out Kitched’s capsule collection, which includes romantic crimson and maroon cushion covers to effortlessly glam up your home. Each piece is intricately bedecked with appliqué work, embellishments, chevron and more. 

You’re a Firecracker – Indiglam box by Vpop

Choose the limited edition You’re a Firecracker – Indiglam box by Vpop to dining settings. These custom crafted table mats sparkle like crystal under any lighting and pair excellently with the brand’s antique sequin table runner.

The Valentine’s collection by Sarita Handa

The Valentine’s capsule collection includes an array of luxurious cushions and lavish quilts. The cushions are adorned with signature Sarita Handa embroidery and come in invigorating hues of reds, pinks, greys as well as ivory, ideal for a cosy, celebratory weekend!

Crimson decor collection by Baro Design

Mumbai based Baro Design‘s artisanal furniture encourages you to slow down and reflect. From its latest offerings of mid-century cabinets, lamps and statement seaters, our favourites are definitely the seaters designed by Siddharth Sirohi.

The Emel collection by All Home Living

What’s not to love about this set of four Victorian classic photo frames, which promise to hold on to your most cherished memories. If it’s the style you like, the brand even has Victorian-inspired vanity boxes and table clocks.

Lovestruck collection by Izhaar

The Summer Love hamper features delectable cookie jars as well as picnic-themed baskets for romantic retreats. Or opt for Mi Amor and get a versatile fragrance package, a photo frame, stationery box and London phone booth-styled jewellery box. 

Eco-friendly lanterns by Orange Tree

Create a romantic setting with tea lights in these minimalist lanterns for supper settings. Orange you glad we recommended these to you?

La Vie En Rose Selection APR

We can’t have a Valentine’s recommendation and not reference Paris, the city of love! Parisian decor pieces from APR include the 88 Secrets Bar in Blush Rose by Nika Zupanc for Scarlet Splendour, Macaron Light by Brokis, Pinker Paints Rug by Yo2, Pastilles Boxes by Lison de Caunes, and more.

Just Us collection by Portico India

Make breakfast in bed a luxurious affair with this range of versatile and plush duvet covers and king-sized bedsheets in ravishing shades of Ruby Rose and Luxury Nude.

The Rug Republic

The Rug Republic’s latest array of organic, handcrafted Indian rugs, pouffe and accessories include the Adono floor covering, Elbe pouffe, Adono cushion, Sewells stool and more.

Valentine’s Day cushion and pouch collection by SanSar Home

Simple and sweet, that’s what SanSar’s vibrant cushions and pouches are. Just using the L-word sometimes is just enough to encapsulate the theme of the season.

Bundle of Love collection by It’s All About Home

The brand’s range of handmade, embroidered cushions are enough to create a plush setting and share the mundane moments of life with loved ones.

Fresh DIY cocktail kit by Swizzle

This is the perfect gift for cocktail lovers. Try out your mixology skills or simply choose from their range of gift boxes. We especially like the Love Hangover Gift Box.

Home appliance by WonderChef

Start the day with a hot steaming cuppa joe with the help of this Duet Coffee Maker and set the tone for the rest of the celebrations that’ll follow

Valentine’s Day decor by Hermosa Design Studio

We love this handcrafted tray that’s finished in 24 carat gold, which is covered in a blushing hue, to turn mundane activities into magical ones. 

Silverware by SR Artefacts

From among a unique selection of stunning silverware, we’ve chosen a pair of silver champagne flutes to toast your loved one in a simple yet chic way.

The Kolam Collection by Tania and Sandeep Khosla for Jaipur Rugs

Tania and Sandeep Khosla’s Kolam collection for Jaipur Rugs is inspired by the ritualistic folk art of creating patterns from rice flour at the entrance of homes in southern India. We love this red tinted rug, which is perfect for the season’s celebrations at home.

Candle stands by Ochre at Home

Enticed by French quintessential design, these pillar-like candle feature magnificent sculptural detailing of the French Renaissance—a perfect match for a coq au vin.

Picante collection by Ellementry

We love this two-piece Picante Coffee Mug Set, whose lids can be used as biscotto coasters, making them an ideal present for coffee lovers. P.s. It comes in a reusable and durable wooden gift box.