FROM BANAL TO BEAUTIFUL, HOW TO TRANSFORM YOUR INTERIORS
Beauty may lie in the eyes of the beholder but luxury does in the ability to afford the good life. For luxe interiors, it is all about how you plan the space, what materials you select and how it responds to you contextually.
"Good design is what defines luxury today. True luxury lies in creating a space that reflects one's personality, fosters wellbeing and inspires creativity. From sumptuous fabrics to exquisite craftsmanship, luxury in interior design is all about creating spaces that not only exude grandeur but also nurture the soul," says architect Rahul Bansal, who is a partner at the Delhi-based multidisciplinary design firm groupDCA. Bansal shares some ways to attain this.
Blur the indoors-outdoors line
"The art of crafting a luxurious home prioritises expansive living spaces that seamlessly transition onto landscaped terraces, creating a versatile space for relaxation or entertaining. Modern residential design blurs the lines between the interiors and exteriors," says Bansal.
Verandahs, patios, balconies, open-plan layouts with floor-to-ceiling glass windows and strategically placed greenery contribute to this approach. "This expands the usable living area and fosters a connection with nature, a key element of luxurious living. Incorporating an interplay of materials on the facade, perhaps with a modern twist on traditional elements, can further enhance the connection between indoors and outdoors," he adds.
Harness the power of nature
Large windows, double-height spaces and open landscaped areas are recurring themes in the modern home and facilitate the creation of a home connected to nature. "Amidst the chaos of city life and closed rooms, luxury today is defined by harnessing the power of the natural elements, such as daylight and ventilation. Natural light brightens a space and fosters a connection with the outdoors, creating a sense of spaciousness and an inviting atmosphere," says Bansal.
Strategically-placed skylights can further enhance this effect, reducing dependence on artificial lighting. This, in turn, instils a sense of grandeur and openness that offers occupants a sense of freedom and openness.
Light as an artful element
Artificial lighting is vital in setting the mood and creating an ambient space. "Layered lighting options, including recessed lighting, task lighting and accent lighting, allow you to control the ambience and highlight specific features within your home," says Bansal, adding: "Be it chandeliers, pendant lights or even floor lamps, lighting can create visual stimulation, resulting in a regal aura."
Create a personalised oasis
"It's about indulging in sumptuous fabrics, exquisite craftsmanship and refined details that evoke a sense of opulence and sophistication," says Bansal. Be it Egyptian cotton sheets, polished marble countertops or designer accents, luxury transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. "It's about creating an ambience of exclusivity and comfort that envelopes you in a cocoon of indulgence. For instance, an expansive en suite bathroom with a luxurious jacuzzi can further personalise your private haven," he explains.
Embrace materiality to evoke luxury
"Materials such as wood, stone and high-quality fabrics offer superior durability and timeless elegance. Consider incorporating these materials throughout your home, from flooring and furniture to countertops and accents," says Bansal. He gives an example of combining stone flooring, leather and wooden furniture in the bedrooms to express grace and affluence.
Give your walls a luxurious treatment
Whether you opt for wall paint or wallpaper, they turn your walls into a canvas of luxe living. "The choice of colours, textures and patterns can instantly elevate the ambience. Rich, jewel-toned hues, such as deep emerald greens or velvety purples, evoke a sense of opulence while metallic accents add a touch of glamour and allure," says Bansal. "Alternatively, intricately designed wallpapers with delicate motifs or bold geometric patterns can create visual interest and depth, transforming ordinary walls into works of art."
"Remember, luxury is a feeling and an experienceânot a price tag. The key is creating a comfortable space that inspires, uplifts and reflects your taste," says Bansal.
2024-05-06T13:57:19Z dg43tfdfdgfd