India is a country known for its rich heritage and diverse cultures. This vibrant mix of traditions and customs has greatly influenced the country’s architectural styles, giving rise to unique and beautiful design elements in Indian homes. From courtyards to pitched roofs and richly carved wooden furniture, these elements bring together tradition and elegance in a harmonious way. Vernacular design elements are an integral part of Indian homes, reflecting the cultural heritage and aesthetic sensibilities of the country. In this article, we will talk about 5 best vernacular design elements that can transform your home into a spectacular space.
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Creating a haven: Courtyards for interior spaces
Source: Pinterest/ Architectural Digest India
Courtyards have long been a part of Indian homes and serve as a response to the climate of the region. They provide a soothing buffer space within the house and help in escaping the summer heat. Courtyards also act as social spaces, bringing the family together and connecting with nature. They can be found in different types of Indian houses, such as Gujarat’s Pol houses, Maharashtra’s Wadas and Kerala’s Nalukettu houses.
| Type of Indian house | Description |
| Gujarat’s Pol houses | Houses with courtyards and narrow lanes built in the pol (neighbourhood) system. |
| Maharashtra’s wadas | Traditional houses with courtyards surrounded by residential and service units. |
| Kerala’s Nalukettu houses | Traditional ancestral homes featuring a central courtyard. |
Classic design with a purpose: Pitched roofs and verandahs in Indian architecture
Source: Pinterest
Pitched roofs are a common sight in Indian towns and villages. They are not only suitable for heavy rains but also provide a good height to the interior spaces. These roofs are often covered with Mangalore tiles made of red baked clay. Coupled with a verandah, the pitched roof becomes a physical expression of India’s traditional warm and welcoming culture. Verandahs act as intermediate spaces, opening the home to the outside world and reflecting the Hindu code of conduct of being hospitable to guests.
| Pitched roofs | Verandahs | Mangalore tiles | Traditional culture |
| Provide good height to interior spaces | Open the home to the outside world | Made of red baked clay | Reflect India’s warm and welcoming culture |
| Suitable for heavy rains | Act as intermediate spaces | Give a traditional aesthetic | Epitomise the Hindu code of conduct |
Weaving history into modernity: Pictorial motif references
Source: Pinterest/Darshanam
India’s rich history and cultural heritage are often manifested in the design of contemporary homes. Pictorial motif references offer a unique way to incorporate historical elements into modern living spaces, creating a juxtaposition of tradition and innovation. By drawing inspiration from various forms of art and architecture, homeowners can infuse their interiors with character and a sense of connection to India’s vibrant past.
One example of using pictorial motif references is to take inspiration from Mughal paintings, known for their intricate details and vibrant colours. These paintings often depict scenes of courtly life, royal hunts and flora and fauna. By incorporating elements from Mughal paintings, such as representations of horses or nature, into contemporary interiors, homeowners can add a touch of historical elegance to their spaces.
Another way to incorporate pictorial motif references is by drawing inspiration from rural architecture. Village houses in India often feature curved ceilings, which add a unique charm to the interior spaces. By replicating this architectural detail, homeowners can create a rustic and cosy atmosphere reminiscent of rural living.
References to the Bodhi Tree, which holds great significance in Buddhism, can also be used as pictorial motif references. The tree symbolises enlightenment and spiritual awakening. By incorporating motifs or images of the Bodhi Tree in their interiors, homeowners can create a serene and contemplative ambiance.
Additionally, the use of hanging diyas (lamps) as decorative elements can add a traditional touch to contemporary spaces. These lamps are often seen in rural households, where they are used to light up the surroundings during festivals and celebrations. By incorporating hanging diyas in their interiors, homeowners can evoke a sense of warmth and festive spirit.
Timeless grace: Richly carved wooden furniture
Source: Pinterest/ Apartment ideas by Beatriz
Wooden furniture with exquisite artistry and intricate carvings is a hallmark of traditional Indian style. These visually stunning pieces are not only a reflection of India’s rich cultural heritage but also a symbol of prosperity. Historically, they adorned the palaces and forts of royalty, showcasing the mastery of skilled craftsmen.
Even today, many traditional Indian homes proudly display beautifully carved window and door frames, showcasing the continuing appreciation for this timeless art form. These meticulously crafted wooden furniture pieces add an element of elegance and grandeur to any space.
In a traditional Indian living room setup, one can often find designs like the four-poster bed with elaborately carved posts and legs. These intricately detailed beds become the centrepiece, exuding a sense of luxury and craftsmanship. Accompanied by long cushioned diwans adorned with bolsters and complemented by Indian or Persian carpets, a traditional Indian living room captures the essence of comfort and opulence.
Let us now take a closer look at some examples of richly carved wooden furniture:
| Furniture piece | Description |
| Carved window frames | Elaborately carved frames featuring motifs inspired by nature, mythology or religious symbolism. |
| Carved door frames | Entrance doors with magnificent carvings depicting scenes from epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata or showcasing intricate floral patterns. |
| Four-poster bed | A regal bed with richly carved wooden posts and legs, often accompanied by a grand canopy. |
| Carved coffee table | A centrepiece table with detailed carvings, adding a touch of artistry and elegance to the living room. |
Touch of romance: Jharokha-style balconies for contemporary spaces
Source: Pinterest/ Manana Siradze
Jharokha-style balconies, also known as skylights, were traditionally used in palaces to observe the outside world without being seen. They have found many contemporary adaptations across India, showcasing the romance and history associated with this architectural element. Jharokhas add an Indian appeal to contemporary decor and can be made from various materials like wood, marble, brick and concrete. False windows with relief statues or carved wooden railings are examples of how jharokha-style balconies bring a quirky traditional context to walls.
Examples of Jharokha-style balconies
| Material | Description |
| Wood | Jharokha-style balconies made from wood exude warmth and rustic charm. The intricate carvings on the wooden railings add a touch of traditional elegance. |
| Marble | Jharokha-style balconies made from marble are perfect for a luxurious and grand look. The smooth and polished surface adds a sophisticated touch to any space. |
| Brick | Jharokha-style balconies made from brick give a rustic and earthy feel. The natural texture and warm tones of brick create a cosy and inviting atmosphere. |
| Concrete | Concrete jharokha-style balconies offer durability and versatility. They can be moulded into different shapes and sizes, allowing for unique and creative designs. |
FAQs
What are vernacular design elements?
Vernacular design elements refer to architectural features and design styles that are unique to a particular region or culture. In the context of Indian homes, vernacular design elements include courtyards, pitched roofs, jharokha-style balconies and more. These elements reflect the diverse cultural heritage of India and bring a sense of tradition and elegance to the home.
How do courtyards enhance interior spaces?
Courtyards serve as buffer spaces within the house, providing a soothing environment and helping to escape the summer heat. Additionally, courtyards act as social spaces, bringing the family together and connecting with nature. They can be found in different types of Indian houses, such as Gujarat's Pol houses, Maharashtra's Wadas and Kerala's Nalukettu houses.
What is the significance of pitched roofs and verandahs?
Pitched roofs are commonly seen in Indian towns and villages due to their suitability for heavy rains. They not only offer protection from rain but also provide a good height to the interior spaces. Verandahs act as intermediate spaces, opening the home to the outside world and reflecting the Hindu code of conduct of being hospitable to guests.
How can pictorial motif references be incorporated into modern spaces?
Pictorial motif references are a way of incorporating historical elements into contemporary homes. For example, a representation of a horse inspired by Mughal paintings can be adapted to a present-day application. References to the Bodhi Tree or the use of hanging diyas (lamps) and curved ceilings typical of village houses can also bring a rural architectural touch to modern spaces.
What is the significance of richly carved wooden furniture in traditional Indian style?
Wooden furniture with intricate carvings is a quintessential feature of traditional Indian style. These pieces are a symbol of prosperity and can be found in palaces and forts.
What are jharokha-style balconies?
Jharokha-style balconies, also known as skylights, were traditionally used in palaces to observe the outside world without being seen. They have found many contemporary adaptations across India, showcasing the romance and history associated with this architectural element.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |