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Text: Ar. Gaurav Pathak, Founder and Principal Architect, Design 21, Gurugram

Home design involves selecting furnishings and decor elements preferred by the family, regardless of their origins or style. They could be antique or contemporary, but they must be intelligently integrated to blend in with different aesthetics and colour palettes to transform a space.

• A mix of styles

Traditional or contemporary architecture or interiors are opposites, but one can blend them to create an impactful space. They must select décor that complements the chosen style that in turn is liked by the homeowner. Positioning a sleek component against a statement wall lends aesthetic balance to the room, thereby creating the desired ambience.

• Design elements

Colours, textures, patterns, and materials play a significant role in styling a home as they impact the room’s mood and perception. Play with different materials and textures on the walls and floors with a vibrant colour palette to stimulate the human sense and ignite visual pleasure. While bolder palettes add dynamism to the space, neutral palettes denote sophistication.

• Components and elements

A balanced interconnection of décor elements lends individuality to the home, which is possible through a single detail repeated at different corners. Or, one could have a series of components belonging to a singular style arranged around the house. Principles of symmetry, repetition, patterns, balance, emphasis and proportion create aesthetically honest compositions. Patterned flooring pleases the human eye, and the symmetrical positioning of décor on walls and ceilings lend balance.

• Illumination 

Appropriate lighting, when combined with other design elements, influences human sensory perceptions. Using a soft, warm glow against bright colours brightens up a space, such as with wall sconces, pendant lights, strip lights and lamps. A room must also be equipped with a series of general lighting fixtures for practical purposes, such as office lights, study lights, and kitchen lights. These should also be installed to reduce eye strain and perform different tasks efficiently.

• Breathing spaces 

Free spaces are required to avoid clutter, allow for smooth circulation between spaces and lend fluidity to the area. Excessive elements in a room can make it suffocating, and such sufficient free zones in a room can make it look expansive and unobstructed. Both quirky and elegant are expressed through thoughtful design ideas in home interiors.