This feed-reading application is created using free online FEEDS (RSS and ATOM files) aggregated using Google Reader API
If you find there is any copyright abuse, contact us as soon as possible, thanks.
If you find there is any copyright abuse, contact us as soon as possible, thanks.
Inspiration galore...
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Original Site: Rang-Decor {Interior Ideas predominantly Indian}Yes, inspiration in various forms and this month's inspiration e-zine is titled "Nook and Crannies: Inspirations in the Home."
Erin was very kind to ask me to participate in the 'Inspiration E-zine' for this month.
Thanks Erin!Everyone needs inspiration from time to time and a monthly Inspiration e-zine sounds perfect:-) So do visit design for mankind and download 33 pages of inspiration:-)
Les Indiennes.
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Original Site: Rang-Decor {Interior Ideas predominantly Indian}
Another post on block-print? Well, I am so taken by these beautiful Indian Kalamkari inspired designs by Mary Mulcahy, the one behind Les Indiennes.
I am sure many of you are aware of the amazing line of products by Les Indiennes, but what I really liked is use of just one or two colours, using Kalamkari technique which traditionally uses multiple colours.
Kalamkari is an ancient Indian Art which involves dyeing of sun-bleached cotton fabrics with natural dyes and then hand-block printing with carved wooden blocks.
Les Indiennes has products in various materials like fabric, paper & felt.
You can view & buy their products online and get inspired by these dreamy images in their Inspirational Flip Book.This is so soothing, so summery, so cool and so inspiring:-)
(images from Les Indiennes.com)
Beautifully Subtle...
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Original Site: Rang-Decor {Interior Ideas predominantly Indian}
Sanganer is a place in Rajasthan that is famous for it's traditional hand block printing. Sanganeri prints usually consists of floral motifs and the colours used are natural dyes derived from Turmeric, Indigo plants, banana leaves and so on.
The colours are usually bright & vibrant which is synonymous with the colourful Rajasthan, hence it was a pleasant surprise when I saw these prints in subdued and in single colour in the Toast Catalogue Online.
Check out their Quilts, Blankets & Throws in subtle colours. They have some lovely pillow and cushion covers too.( images from Toast Catalogue)
Petersham Nurseries
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Original Site: Rang-Decor {Interior Ideas predominantly Indian}
When I saw this photograph in housemartin a couple of day back, apart from the beautiful nursery the thing that got my attention was the huge 'Urli' a traditional Indian vessel. This got me curious and I read a bit about it online, but then today I pick up one of the old issues of 'Design Today' magazine from my table, and what do I see 'Petersham Nurseries' again. So taking a cue, here I am posting about this breathtakingly beautiful nursery which is an antique store and also a cafe. 
Francesco and Gael Boglione the owners of Petersham Nurseries in West London have travelled extensively around the world and to India. Which can be seen in these beautiful antiques and memorabilia that they have hand-picked and displayed so well in the nursery.
Raja Ravi Varma prints & Tanjore Paintings are displayed against blinds made of natural fibres.
The cart that is used by Indian Street vendors has been used very charmingly to prop pots.
A traditional bell compliments an exotic orchid plant.
They have some Indian fabric quilts also for sale. 
Handcrafted stone Buddha.
Carved Indian Doors.
Here is a famous brand of Indian cycle- Hero Cycles for cycling around the nursery?:-)
Handcrafted stone Buddha.Carved Indian Doors.Here is a famous brand of Indian cycle- Hero Cycles for cycling around the nursery?:-)( images from Petersham Nurseries Site)
Jivi Sethi
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Original Site: Rang-Decor {Interior Ideas predominantly Indian}
Some of you might remember I had featured Jivi Sethi's Goan home in December last year and yesterday as I flipped through the glossy pages of Elle Decor's latest edition I found myself staring at another eclectic space designed by Jivi Sethi, this time he shares his New Delhi residence.
A colonial daybed with vibrant cushions by Jivi, Sadr, Iris & Soleh. Glass paintings of Lord Hanuman & Ganesha on a Kashmiri screen. 
The entrance hall to the apartment has a 'Jaali' door designed by Michael Aram.( I love the flowers hanging in lovely water filled test tubes:-)
The things that I find interesting in his spaces are the carefree use of colours, art & crafts picked up from parts of India as well as abroad. His ability to very smoothly blend the east with the west and yet create a harmonious style, I find very unique. 
The terrace dining table has black stone platter with patterned jasmine inlay work, sculpture by M J Enas & block print poppy table cloth by Brigitte Singh
Painting by Haku Shah in the dining room, with doors salvaged from an old mansion. ( I love restorations:-)
The dining table all set with black marble inlay side plates, granite & bidri work tea-light holders and old brass oil lamps from Kerala on the consoles & Italian lamp overhead provide lovely light.
Seen here are Chinese Inlay and lacquer work of birds & bedside chest with Antje Weber sculpture.
I am a sucker for traditional oil lamps:-)) Here is a collection of brass lamps from Tamil Nadu, lithograph of a monument on the wall, a Lord Shiva mask from Varanasi & gold plated vegetables are served on a bidri work platter from his "Design Laboratory"
(images from elledecor magazine, Feb-Mar 2008)
The terrace dining table has black stone platter with patterned jasmine inlay work, sculpture by M J Enas & block print poppy table cloth by Brigitte SinghPainting by Haku Shah in the dining room, with doors salvaged from an old mansion. ( I love restorations:-)The dining table all set with black marble inlay side plates, granite & bidri work tea-light holders and old brass oil lamps from Kerala on the consoles & Italian lamp overhead provide lovely light.Seen here are Chinese Inlay and lacquer work of birds & bedside chest with Antje Weber sculpture.I am a sucker for traditional oil lamps:-)) Here is a collection of brass lamps from Tamil Nadu, lithograph of a monument on the wall, a Lord Shiva mask from Varanasi & gold plated vegetables are served on a bidri work platter from his "Design Laboratory"(images from elledecor magazine, Feb-Mar 2008)
Auroville, Pondicherry
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Original Site: Rang-Decor {Interior Ideas predominantly Indian}First, a big thanks to Masala Chai for the "You make my day" Award. I really appreciate it and also the post on 'The Dune' which kind of brought back lovely memories from our Pondicherry trip a couple of years back & inspired this post on Auroville:-)) 
My door obssession in Pondicherry, when I didn't have a digital camera, scanned from old photographs:-) 
The history of Pondicherry can be traced back to 1672 when the French bought this port town from an India King. The French connection grew when Sri Aurobindo an Indian scholar & mystic set up an ashram here in 1926. Mira Alfassa his French-born spiritual companion, also known as 'The Mother' established Auroville in the sixties.
Image of Matrimandir in Auroville.
Auroville is a series of self-supporting communities in villages which are very close to Pondicherry. Auroville's New Age ideal drew many Indians & Westerners including French architect Roger Anger who was the chief architect of the township of Auroville.
Featured here are a couple of homes from Auroville.
A fusion of natural & modern home of Frenchman Jean Legrand & wife Joy.
Natural light streaming in through the circular shapes on the ceiling and that is echoed by the natural rocks & granite slabs in Legrand's bathroom.
Love the angular and circular shapes of the kitchen & dining area, which has been designed keeping the light in mind.
Home of designer William Netter, an American Spiritualist and Sri Aurobindo follower.
The white-tiled kitchen with simple modern lines and ample natural light.
The design here is Minimalist with areas designated for different purposes. Here is the space for praying with 'The Mother's' and Sri Aurobindo's photographs with a votive candle burning in the centre and his work space.
A house designed by French architect Roger Anger for Christine Devin & her husband in 1976 in a design resembling toadstool shapes.
Beautifully designed circular bedroom with movable slats to adjust light & air flow. Love the red-oxide smooth flooring and a simple portrait of the Mother on the wall.
Locally made paper lantern and couple of floor cushions & wooden chest adorn the dining area. I absolutely love the shape of the windows ( reminds me of railway train windows:-)
The township at Auroville is heaven for architects from India & abroad trying to create something different, something new. You can read more about the various styles of architecture in Auroville here.
(images from Indian Interiors- Taschen & Auroville.org)
My door obssession in Pondicherry, when I didn't have a digital camera, scanned from old photographs:-) The history of Pondicherry can be traced back to 1672 when the French bought this port town from an India King. The French connection grew when Sri Aurobindo an Indian scholar & mystic set up an ashram here in 1926. Mira Alfassa his French-born spiritual companion, also known as 'The Mother' established Auroville in the sixties.Image of Matrimandir in Auroville.Auroville is a series of self-supporting communities in villages which are very close to Pondicherry. Auroville's New Age ideal drew many Indians & Westerners including French architect Roger Anger who was the chief architect of the township of Auroville.
Featured here are a couple of homes from Auroville.
A fusion of natural & modern home of Frenchman Jean Legrand & wife Joy.
Natural light streaming in through the circular shapes on the ceiling and that is echoed by the natural rocks & granite slabs in Legrand's bathroom.Love the angular and circular shapes of the kitchen & dining area, which has been designed keeping the light in mind.Home of designer William Netter, an American Spiritualist and Sri Aurobindo follower.
The white-tiled kitchen with simple modern lines and ample natural light.The design here is Minimalist with areas designated for different purposes. Here is the space for praying with 'The Mother's' and Sri Aurobindo's photographs with a votive candle burning in the centre and his work space.A house designed by French architect Roger Anger for Christine Devin & her husband in 1976 in a design resembling toadstool shapes.Beautifully designed circular bedroom with movable slats to adjust light & air flow. Love the red-oxide smooth flooring and a simple portrait of the Mother on the wall.Locally made paper lantern and couple of floor cushions & wooden chest adorn the dining area. I absolutely love the shape of the windows ( reminds me of railway train windows:-)The township at Auroville is heaven for architects from India & abroad trying to create something different, something new. You can read more about the various styles of architecture in Auroville here.
(images from Indian Interiors- Taschen & Auroville.org)
Saffron Marigold
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Original Site: Rang-Decor {Interior Ideas predominantly Indian}I was really excited when I received an email from Anisha Ghosh of Saffron Marigold.
Saffron Marigold~ The words that bring to mind vibrant colour, fragrance and textures...
Ruby Kilim ~ Designer Red Black Queen Duvet Cover
That's the name of this amazing online 'Luxury handcrafted Bedding & Linens store' that is owned & run by Anisha from two home offices, one in California and the other in India.
Starry Nights ~ Modern Contemporary Blue Queen Duvet Cover 
Purple Moon ~ Floral Indian Print Luxury Queen Duvet Cover
Anisha designs and prints traditional blockprinted home furnishings working closely with artisans in India. Saffron Marigold is comitted to the fair trade movement & revival of arts & crafts of India.
Spice Route ~ Red Orange Exotic Queen Duvet Cover
Saffron Marigold has a range of products from Bedspreads, Duvet Covers, Sheer Curtains, Pillow Covers, Table Linen, Cushion Covers & many more.
Ivy Lace ~ White Tab Top Cotton Voile Sheer Curtain Panel 
Ruby Kilim ~ Red Cotton Dinner Napkins & Purple Moon ~ Floral Cotton Dinner Napkins
Tropical Garden ~ Floral Decorative Cushion Cover & Memories of Shalimar ~ Green Gold Decorative Cushion Cover
Saffron Marigold~ The words that bring to mind vibrant colour, fragrance and textures...
Ruby Kilim ~ Designer Red Black Queen Duvet CoverThat's the name of this amazing online 'Luxury handcrafted Bedding & Linens store' that is owned & run by Anisha from two home offices, one in California and the other in India.
Starry Nights ~ Modern Contemporary Blue Queen Duvet Cover Purple Moon ~ Floral Indian Print Luxury Queen Duvet CoverAnisha designs and prints traditional blockprinted home furnishings working closely with artisans in India. Saffron Marigold is comitted to the fair trade movement & revival of arts & crafts of India.
Spice Route ~ Red Orange Exotic Queen Duvet CoverSaffron Marigold has a range of products from Bedspreads, Duvet Covers, Sheer Curtains, Pillow Covers, Table Linen, Cushion Covers & many more.
Ivy Lace ~ White Tab Top Cotton Voile Sheer Curtain Panel Ruby Kilim ~ Red Cotton Dinner Napkins & Purple Moon ~ Floral Cotton Dinner Napkins Tropical Garden ~ Floral Decorative Cushion Cover & Memories of Shalimar ~ Green Gold Decorative Cushion CoverI am absolutely in love with the beautiful blockprint motifs and the rich colours. If you love a specific print, you can also shop by print...wow, now that is awesome:-)
Do check out Saffron Marigold to bring in that Indian luxury & elegance into your homes...
(images from Saffron Marigold.com)
Bed, Breakfast & Fireplace...
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Original Site: Rang-Decor {Interior Ideas predominantly Indian}...said a small wooden board below the name 'King's Cliff'.
King's Cliff~ Yes, that's the name of one of two places we stayed during our trip to the beautiful hills of Nilgiri in Tamilnadu.
Sinfully delicious brownie with ice cream & chocolate sauce which they serve you on the porch after a heavy afternoon lunch & before you doze off reading a delightful novel.
The nine rooms are named after the works of 'Shakspeare' and each comes with a fireplace. *sigh* well it's been a while since I have been near a fireplace and slept to the sound of crackling wood.
A live-band playing our all-time favourite rock numbers, the bright winter sun, the chirpy birds, the waiters serving hot tea with chocolate cream cookies... 
Night falls, temperature dips, peaceful silence & a knock at our door. In comes a man with chocolate-mint candies, an extra woollen quilt & firewood to light our fireplace:-)
We were in heaven:-) Sweet dreams people, next post when I wake up;-)
King's Cliff~ Yes, that's the name of one of two places we stayed during our trip to the beautiful hills of Nilgiri in Tamilnadu.I absolutely love places with a history and this old colonial mansion which now is a hotel is charming. 
The well manicured green lawns with white wrought iron chairs & exotic varieties of flowers almost takes you back hundred years when butlers in white served hot cups of high grown Nilgiris tea to the 'Sahebs'. Well, they still do:-)
So we sat back and soaked in the beauty of the view of the hills through the windows of 'Earl's Secret'- The restaurant which lives up to it's reputation of serving delicious food.
The well manicured green lawns with white wrought iron chairs & exotic varieties of flowers almost takes you back hundred years when butlers in white served hot cups of high grown Nilgiris tea to the 'Sahebs'. Well, they still do:-)So we sat back and soaked in the beauty of the view of the hills through the windows of 'Earl's Secret'- The restaurant which lives up to it's reputation of serving delicious food. Sinfully delicious brownie with ice cream & chocolate sauce which they serve you on the porch after a heavy afternoon lunch & before you doze off reading a delightful novel.The nine rooms are named after the works of 'Shakspeare' and each comes with a fireplace. *sigh* well it's been a while since I have been near a fireplace and slept to the sound of crackling wood.
A live-band playing our all-time favourite rock numbers, the bright winter sun, the chirpy birds, the waiters serving hot tea with chocolate cream cookies... Night falls, temperature dips, peaceful silence & a knock at our door. In comes a man with chocolate-mint candies, an extra woollen quilt & firewood to light our fireplace:-)We were in heaven:-) Sweet dreams people, next post when I wake up;-)Two for joy, immense joy...
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Original Site: Rang-Decor {Interior Ideas predominantly Indian}...wondering what I am talking about?
Today I am sharing with you not one but two great spaces which have got imprinted on my mind ever since I saw them a couple of days ago.
The first on, is designer Jivi Sethi's ultra-stylish residence in Assagao in Goa.
Jivi Sethi's home which is featured in Vogue Magazine, this month is an eclectic blend of antique objets d'art with contemporary furniture. 
He has styled his home with loads of glass, mirrors & chandeliers. I love the way he had brought in the old goan charm by using antique chandeliers, old wine bottles & loads of floral arrangements:-)
Look at the fusion of antique goan wooden cupboard with contemporary glass & lacquer coffee table designed by him:-)
Flowers everywhere...*sigh* Love the way he floats the 'Parijat' flowers with the orange stalk upwards adding colour & texture to the arrangement
Another thing striking is the use of vibrant colours, his home is filled with art from his friends blending in with his own pieces of heirloom from his family home in Amritsar & Delhi.
There is something fun, colourful, vibrant & eclectic in this space which reflects the personality of this very creative & stylish designer.
Join me in gliding along the backwaters in a 'Kettuvallam' or the traditional Houseboat. Earlier these boats with coir and bamboo roofs were used as cargo boats but nowadays they are used as 2-3 room houseboats cruising along the Malabar coast. 
A passage along the side of the boat. The boat is lit by oil lamps in the night. You can see a traditional brass lock on the door.
A small deck at the tail of the boat from where one can watch the magical sunsets in the backwaters.
The arches of the boat have been constructed with palm-leaf matting, woven into a bamboo frame and tied together with coir ropes (very eco-friendly, I must add)
Imagine sleeping under this romantic canopy and waking up to the gentle sound of the oars splashing the water.....now that's a thought!
On that note, I take your leave for a couple of weeks. I am taking a 'Winter Break' and will be doing some travelling and practicing loads of photography:-)
Meanwhile do check out Neece Clark's Shop Online. She has some amazing paintings up for sale for the holidays.
Will also be keeping my eyes open for fellow blogger An Indian Summer's Bazaar which is opening in January 2008.
So do visit her too where she will be bringing to you '...an eclectic mix of select Asian and Indian crafts and products of exquisite design and high quality.'
Today I am sharing with you not one but two great spaces which have got imprinted on my mind ever since I saw them a couple of days ago.
The first on, is designer Jivi Sethi's ultra-stylish residence in Assagao in Goa.Jivi Sethi's home which is featured in Vogue Magazine, this month is an eclectic blend of antique objets d'art with contemporary furniture. He has styled his home with loads of glass, mirrors & chandeliers. I love the way he had brought in the old goan charm by using antique chandeliers, old wine bottles & loads of floral arrangements:-)Look at the fusion of antique goan wooden cupboard with contemporary glass & lacquer coffee table designed by him:-)
Flowers everywhere...*sigh* Love the way he floats the 'Parijat' flowers with the orange stalk upwards adding colour & texture to the arrangementAnother thing striking is the use of vibrant colours, his home is filled with art from his friends blending in with his own pieces of heirloom from his family home in Amritsar & Delhi.There is something fun, colourful, vibrant & eclectic in this space which reflects the personality of this very creative & stylish designer. From the a vibrant home to the placid backwaters of Kerala....
Join me in gliding along the backwaters in a 'Kettuvallam' or the traditional Houseboat. Earlier these boats with coir and bamboo roofs were used as cargo boats but nowadays they are used as 2-3 room houseboats cruising along the Malabar coast. A passage along the side of the boat. The boat is lit by oil lamps in the night. You can see a traditional brass lock on the door.A small deck at the tail of the boat from where one can watch the magical sunsets in the backwaters.The arches of the boat have been constructed with palm-leaf matting, woven into a bamboo frame and tied together with coir ropes (very eco-friendly, I must add)Imagine sleeping under this romantic canopy and waking up to the gentle sound of the oars splashing the water.....now that's a thought!On that note, I take your leave for a couple of weeks. I am taking a 'Winter Break' and will be doing some travelling and practicing loads of photography:-)
Meanwhile do check out Neece Clark's Shop Online. She has some amazing paintings up for sale for the holidays.
Will also be keeping my eyes open for fellow blogger An Indian Summer's Bazaar which is opening in January 2008.So do visit her too where she will be bringing to you '...an eclectic mix of select Asian and Indian crafts and products of exquisite design and high quality.'
Happy Holidays to all you lovely people!
( Images from Vogue India, Dec 2007 & Indian Interiors, Taschen)
Pitch your tent...
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Original Site: Rang-Decor {Interior Ideas predominantly Indian}...on the exotic desert sands of Rajasthan. 
Soak in the local flavour sitting by the bonfire and listening to the folk songs or wake up to call of peacocks just outside your tents...
The concept of Manvar Desert Camp dates back to the 17th century when Mughal Emperor Jehangir known for his luxurious lifestyle used to set up royal tents with all the amenities during their hunting trips. 
Manvar Desert Camp has 30 tents arranged in a semi circle around a central 'durbar' hall. 
The central dining area from where stunning sunrises & sunsets can be seen.
The interiors of the tents are extremely luxurious with custom designed block print motifs & large teak wood beds. Huge windows with pull up flaps allow the fresh desert breeze to come in and nets to keep insects out:-)
Live like royalty from the bygone era. Spend some amazing time under the starlit skies of Rajasthan in Manvar Desert Camp.
( images from manvar.com)
Soak in the local flavour sitting by the bonfire and listening to the folk songs or wake up to call of peacocks just outside your tents...
The concept of Manvar Desert Camp dates back to the 17th century when Mughal Emperor Jehangir known for his luxurious lifestyle used to set up royal tents with all the amenities during their hunting trips. Manvar Desert Camp has 30 tents arranged in a semi circle around a central 'durbar' hall. The central dining area from where stunning sunrises & sunsets can be seen.The interiors of the tents are extremely luxurious with custom designed block print motifs & large teak wood beds. Huge windows with pull up flaps allow the fresh desert breeze to come in and nets to keep insects out:-)Live like royalty from the bygone era. Spend some amazing time under the starlit skies of Rajasthan in Manvar Desert Camp.
( images from manvar.com)
Villa Balquisse
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Original Site: Rang-Decor {Interior Ideas predominantly Indian}
My International pick today is from one of the most exotic places~ Bali.Villa Balquisse- a tropical retreat set between coconut groves & mangroves in Jimbaran. The retreat has old Balinese Villas that have been restored and decorated in an eclectic style.
The interior designer's latest travel ifluence her designs- you'll find exquisite cushions & bed linen created from Java silks & Jaipuri sari's.
You can relax by the emerald swimming pool made out of natural stone or walk down to the beach which is only a 300 meters away:-) 
Enjoy a sumptuous dinner made by their Chef under the twinkling stars...
Each Villa is decorated in a unique style.
They have 3 bedroom, 4 bedroom, 5-bedroom & a 9-bedroom villa! So take your pick, enjoy a great mediterranean style holiday with family and friends...
Exotic flowers displayed in unique artifacts handpicked by the owner. You can buy some of the furniture & lamps from their online store Villa Balquisse Living
Absolutely love the cream canopy drapes & simple rustic furniture.
Soak in the Balinese hospitality, the great attention to detail, de-stress with some amazing massages & enjoy the heavenly food prepared by the Chef.(images from Villa Balquisse)
Happy Diwali!
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Original Site: Rang-Decor {Interior Ideas predominantly Indian}
Wishing all you lovely blogger friends a very happy and bright Diwali! The 'Festival of Light' where the lights or lamps signify victory of good over the evil within every human being.
Sorry for the late post, have just about found some quiet time to sit down and assimilate all the festivity around me:-) Today I am going to share the festivities in our home....Welcome!
A simple rangoli made with white poster colours greet you at our doorstep. My favourite Frangipani flowers in terracotta bowl.
Traditional brass peacock lamps at the entrance.
Tealight candles in 'Chai' glasses add light and festivity to our dining table which is dressed in it's colourful best;-) Also seen here are some traditional Indian Sweets.
Flowers & candles...what more can you ask for:-)
Waiting to burst some sparkly fire crackers with my family:-)
Happy Diwali and thanks for all the encouragement, suggestions, appreciations and love that all of you have shown me during the last couple of days.
Thanks Everyone!!! Have a great Diwali!
Diwali Ki Shubhkamnayen: 7.11.2007
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Original Site: Rang-Decor {Interior Ideas predominantly Indian}Dhanteras is celebrated on the first day of the five day Diwali celebrations. 
This day Goddess Lakshmi- who is the Goddess of Wealth is worshipped for wealth & prosperity.
It is extremely auspicious to buy gold & jewellery today as it is believed to bring happiness, wealth and good luck:-)
Here is a simple Dhanteras arrangement with faux gold coins obviously:-)
(Images & ideas by Arch, feel free to get inspired and link to me but if you want to use my photographs for some other purpose please send me a mail)
This day Goddess Lakshmi- who is the Goddess of Wealth is worshipped for wealth & prosperity.It is extremely auspicious to buy gold & jewellery today as it is believed to bring happiness, wealth and good luck:-)Here is a simple Dhanteras arrangement with faux gold coins obviously:-)(Images & ideas by Arch, feel free to get inspired and link to me but if you want to use my photographs for some other purpose please send me a mail)
Diwali Ki Shubhkamnayen: 6.11.2007
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Original Site: Rang-Decor {Interior Ideas predominantly Indian}
This has to be one of those impromtu ideas, which just strikes you when you are doing something as simple as making Idlis for breakfast;-)
Serve traditional Indian sweets in one plate of an Idli mould, dry fruits in the other and light oil diyas in the mini-cocktail Idli mould:-)
You have a simple, instant Diwali Decoration ready!(Images & ideas by Arch, feel free to get inspired and link to me but if you want to use my photographs for some other purpose please send me a mail)
Diwali Ki Shubhkamnayen: 5.11.2007
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Original Site: Rang-Decor {Interior Ideas predominantly Indian}
This is an out & out traditional arrangement. Beautiful green beetle leaves arranged in a circular fashion with festive, cheery yellow marigolds and pink buds giving it that colourful contrast.In the center is a mini traditional Kerala lamp lit with wicks dipped in oil. Shiny brass diyas complete the outer circle with their festive brightness:-)
(Images & ideas by Arch, feel free to get inspired and link to me but if you want to use my photographs for some other purpose please send me a mail)
Diwali Ki Shubhkamnayen: 4.11.2007
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Original Site: Rang-Decor {Interior Ideas predominantly Indian}
I am very excited about this decorating idea, since this doesn't fall into the 'traditional' slot yet it has interesting traditional elements in it:-)Antique ceramic Japanese tiles from Chettinad, look at the interpretation of Goddess Lakshmi!
I completely adore the blue & pink combination. Arrange on your table, float some pink gerberas or lotus if you can get them in glass bowls.
I have used simple kerosene lamps to add that white glow to the arrangement and I don't have to worry about it blowing off!(Images & ideas by Arch, feel free to get inspired and link to me but if you want to use my photographs for some other purpose please send me a mail.)
Diwali Ki Shubhkamnayen: 3.11.2007
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Original Site: Rang-Decor {Interior Ideas predominantly Indian}Rustic. Simple. Divine.
I love the simplicity in this style of decorating. Beauty carved in stone. Pluck flowers from your garden, scatter it all around. Float them in stone diyas ( let your creativity flow:-)
Put some pebbles in the diya before lighting them. Add a dash of colour with 'Kum-Kum' or Vermillion and you have a simple yet beautiful decoration ready.
I float flowers in just about any thing;-) So this was a natural choice, flowers in diyas for beauty & festivity!
I love the simplicity in this style of decorating. Beauty carved in stone. Pluck flowers from your garden, scatter it all around. Float them in stone diyas ( let your creativity flow:-)
Put some pebbles in the diya before lighting them. Add a dash of colour with 'Kum-Kum' or Vermillion and you have a simple yet beautiful decoration ready.
I float flowers in just about any thing;-) So this was a natural choice, flowers in diyas for beauty & festivity!(Images & ideas by Arch, feel free to get inspired and link to me but if you want to use my photographs for some other purpose please send me a mail.)
Diwali Ki Shubhkamnayen: 2.11.2007
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Original Site: Rang-Decor {Interior Ideas predominantly Indian}
Diwali- The Festival of Lights, of happiness, of celebration, of prayers, of beauty, of prosperity.It's a day where we pray to Goddess Lakshmi to fill our lives with health, wealth & happiness.
What better way to decorate, bring out those silverware, line the 'Thali' ( plate/platter) with shiny one rupee coins, fill it up with colour powders of your choice, or get creative fill it up with coloured rice, pulses, shells or crystals!
Offer your guests some chocolates, a great alternative to traditional Indian Sweets;-)
Add some fresh flowers & diyas and you have created a super, shiny, silvery & shiny Diwali arrangement!
(Images & ideas by Arch, feel free to get inspired and link to me but if you want to use my photographs for some other purpose please send me a mail.)
Diwali Ki Shubhkamnayen: 1.11.2007
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Original Site: Rang-Decor {Interior Ideas predominantly Indian}
Dust that old spice box, bring out that antique jewellery box your mother gave you, better still if it has some compartments in them.Display it on your center table or that coffee table in your drawing room where you welcome your guests for Diwali.
Fill each compartment with dry-fruits, sugar candies, chocolates, take your pick:-) Drop a tiny tea light candle in one of the slots and see the festive glow it it brings into your home and on the faces of your guests:-)
(Images & ideas by Arch, feel free to get inspired and link to me but if you want to use my photographs for some other purpose please send me a mail.)
Diwali Ki Shubhkamnayen: 31.10.2007
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Original Site: Rang-Decor {Interior Ideas predominantly Indian}Diwali is the time when major cleaning, painting, sprucing up is done and homes are transformed into a special abode for Goddess Lakshmi (Goddess of Wealth)
There is brightness everywhere. My Diwali routine includes taking out all my brass lamps, the simple brass diyas to huge Kerala Lamps.
Here is a simple idea that you can use as a center of interest on your dining table, infront of a picture of Goddess Lakshmi or at the entrance to your home.
Polish those simple brass diyas, place it in between the grooves of an egg tray (which you can pick up from any grocery store). Use any flower of your choice to fill up the gaps in between the diyas. Voila! You have a gorgeous centerpiece ready.
(Images & ideas by Arch, feel free to get inspired and link to me but if you want to use my photographs for some other purpose please send me a mail.)
Diwali Inspirations...
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Original Site: Rang-Decor {Interior Ideas predominantly Indian}
With Diwali- 'The Festival of Lights' around the corner, I have been looking everywhere for inspiration to decorate my home. There are amazing, sparkly diyas & lamps available in the market, fancy gift packs of dry fruits & sweets, amazing packaging of chocolates and so on but I want to do something innovative, something simple, something beautiful, something traditional, something different.So why look elsewhere? I keep sharing ideas from my home now and then, but this is the first time I have decided to share Diwali Decorating Ideas formally.
Some ideas & inspirations from my home to your home every single day from today to Diwali that is on 9th Nov, 2007. (Ok, I have said it!)
Now please be with me and do tell me what you think of this. While I try and share some inspiring ideas, the next couple of days...
Bungalow 8
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Original Site: Rang-Decor {Interior Ideas predominantly Indian}The name of an unusual home accessories store which is situated in an unconventional location beneath the benches of the famous Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, India.
The store's philosophy of juxtaposing contemporary blockprinted linens in Art Deco cupboards, sleek Jaisalmer bathroom accessories on vintage basins is extremely interesting.
Bungalow 8 is a store where you'll find an eclectic, traditional & rare mix of furniture & fashion hand picked from India and from all over the world.
The store was set up by Maithili Ahluwalia in 2003 in an unconventional location of a bylane in a residential area and started the minimilist trend. Today she has won many accolades both in India as well as internationally.
Bungalow 8 - "Modern home accessories, Designs inspired from tradition & Global origin".
(images from bungaloweight.com)
The store's philosophy of juxtaposing contemporary blockprinted linens in Art Deco cupboards, sleek Jaisalmer bathroom accessories on vintage basins is extremely interesting.Bungalow 8 is a store where you'll find an eclectic, traditional & rare mix of furniture & fashion hand picked from India and from all over the world.
The store was set up by Maithili Ahluwalia in 2003 in an unconventional location of a bylane in a residential area and started the minimilist trend. Today she has won many accolades both in India as well as internationally. Bungalow 8 - "Modern home accessories, Designs inspired from tradition & Global origin".(images from bungaloweight.com)
Art & Crafts of India #7: Gond Tribal Painting
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Original Site: Rang-Decor {Interior Ideas predominantly Indian}
Gond Tribal Painting is done by Gondi people who live in parts of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Chattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh & Orissa.Gondi people pray to various Gods & spirits. These paintings like various other tribal art is done on the walls of the houses.
The depiction of their environment in the form of forests, trees, animals, birds is prominent in the paintings. 
Lord Krishna dancing on the serpent head, part of the Hindu mythology.
Beautiful depiction of animals.
Black & White Gond paintings from www.indiahandicraftstore.com
Serpent's Head Tree by renowned Gond painter Bhajju Shyam.Bhajju Shyam's work won a State award in 2001 and today he has illustrated 'The London Jungle Book' by Tara Books.
Lovely art form from the tribal forests of Gond. Amazing colours & intricate workmanship makes it a winner.
Already on my list of 'To-Buy':-)
(images from indiahandicraftstore.com, resurgence.org, tarabooks.com, shot at Chitrakala Parishad )
Pink for the Cure...
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Original Site: Rang-Decor {Interior Ideas predominantly Indian}
My post for 'Breast Cancer Awareness Month"Let me start with this bright pink studio home of fashion designer Malini Ramani. This space is a mix of bohemian, goan & international styles. 
Crystal lotus infront of a multi-faith mandir (shrine/temple) in her lounge area.
The lounge area has lot of pink velvet with pictures of friends and her guru in the backdrop. The wrought iron & shells chandelier is her own creation.
Old rose walls with a Gautam Vaghela painting in one of Pinakin Patel's Alibag projects.
Priti Paul & Jaouad Kadiri's Moroccan retreat.
'Vogue' Magazine Photographer Norman Parkinson captures the richness of India through his camera.
The MTV Office in Bangalore by Sandeep Khosla & Associates
Alpana & Rahul Kirloskar's bungalow in Pune with a large centre table with Sanskrit script on torched granite in the living room. A painting by J Swaminathan on the wall.
A verandah with a large wenge seagrass sofa with vivid pink upholstery.
Some pink festive decorating ideas from Elle Decor Magazine.
Glass Candle Stand from Klove Studio, Fabric from House of Ishatvam, Atmosphere, Old Goddess Lakshmi print from Moonriver.
Wrought Iron lamps from Good Earth, Chair from India Chic, Fabric from Muslin.
Bright pink upholstery from Atmosphere.
Crystal lotus infront of a multi-faith mandir (shrine/temple) in her lounge area.The lounge area has lot of pink velvet with pictures of friends and her guru in the backdrop. The wrought iron & shells chandelier is her own creation.Old rose walls with a Gautam Vaghela painting in one of Pinakin Patel's Alibag projects.Priti Paul & Jaouad Kadiri's Moroccan retreat.'Vogue' Magazine Photographer Norman Parkinson captures the richness of India through his camera.
The MTV Office in Bangalore by Sandeep Khosla & AssociatesAlpana & Rahul Kirloskar's bungalow in Pune with a large centre table with Sanskrit script on torched granite in the living room. A painting by J Swaminathan on the wall.
A verandah with a large wenge seagrass sofa with vivid pink upholstery.Some pink festive decorating ideas from Elle Decor Magazine.Glass Candle Stand from Klove Studio, Fabric from House of Ishatvam, Atmosphere, Old Goddess Lakshmi print from Moonriver.
Wrought Iron lamps from Good Earth, Chair from India Chic, Fabric from Muslin.Bright pink upholstery from Atmosphere.&
finally an artist whose paintings I really admire- Dhruvi Acharya.
She says,"My paintings focus, through allegory, on the roles of being a woman and artist plus a mother and daughter, of living life as a couple with two boys, or life as a couple with two careers … it is all these dualities, the “two-ness” of my existence that makes life both stressful and enjoyable. And these dualities find their way into my paintings, through allegories and metaphors, images and colours... read more here "
Bound, Acrylic on panel, 2001 
In the Middle of the Night, Acrylic on panel, 2002
Flower Power
Unplugged, Acrylic on Canvas, 2000
In the Middle of the Night, Acrylic on panel, 2002Flower PowerUnplugged, Acrylic on Canvas, 2000(images from Elle Decor Magazine, Indian Design by Daab, Inside-Outside Magazine, Vogue, Dhruvi.com)
Shine on...
00/00/0000, 00:00 | Original Site: Rang-Decor {Interior Ideas predominantly Indian}I am partial to wooden furniture for my home, but these beauties are making me rethink.
Embossed white metal covered side table with Ram head chair from Graham & Green
Beautiful four poster bed from Adarsh Gill.
Embossed White Metal Coffee table made by the skilled craftsmen in Rajasthan.
Details of the intricate metal design by Adarsh Gill
Embossed white metal covered cupboards from Graham & Green.
Adarsh Gill's range of furniture design.
Rajasthani Styled embossed white metal side table.
Now for some shiny accessories to lighten up your homes.
Antique Silver vases from Amrapali
Silver photo frames from Sukra.
Silver Banana Leaf plates from Amrapali.
Beautiful four poster bed from Adarsh Gill.Embossed White Metal Coffee table made by the skilled craftsmen in Rajasthan.
Details of the intricate metal design by Adarsh Gill Embossed white metal covered cupboards from Graham & Green.
Adarsh Gill's range of furniture design.
Rajasthani Styled embossed white metal side table.Now for some shiny accessories to lighten up your homes.Antique Silver vases from AmrapaliSilver photo frames from Sukra.Silver Banana Leaf plates from Amrapali.