National Handloom Day: 5 tips to incorporate Indian crafts into modern interiors

National Handloom Day is celebrated every year on August 7 to honour the country’s handloom weavers and highlight India’s handloom industry. Skilled artisans labour over exquisitely intricate designs in the heart of India’s rural areas, carrying on legacies that have endured for generations. When integrated into architecture and interior design, these unique and rich Indian crafts offer an important connection to the past and a strong sense of identity.
Indian crafts bring a wealth of cultural heritage and detailed artistry into modern interiors, adding character and supporting traditional artisans. Joya Nandurdikar, Founding Partner, Untitled Design, shared with HT Lifestyle creative ways to blend Indian crafts seamlessly into modern spaces. (Also read: National Handloom Day 2024: From Baluchari to Rangkaat, 5 lesser known crafts and textile traditions of India )
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India’s diverse textiles, such as Kalamkari, ikat, and malmal cotton sarees from Bengal, can introduce vibrant colours and textures. Layer Kalamkari cushions on solid-coloured ones use ikat table runners and sofa throws, and consider sarees to be elegant curtains. These elements provide striking contrasts against minimalist furniture and neutral walls, creating captivating focal points.
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Furniture that showcases traditional craftsmanship, like an old chest from Rajasthan or West Bengal, can add warmth and heritage to a space. Mix these with modern furniture for an eclectic look. An old Naga table brings rustic charm into a contemporary setup, showcasing the fusion of old and new.
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Display traditional Indian art, such as Pichwai wall panels or Mata Ni Pacheri textiles, as statement pieces. Mirrors with gilded solid wood frames from South India or Thekri work from Rajasthan add elegance. For a creative touch, convert old stone sculptures from Orissa, Kochi, or Rajasthan into table lamps, lending an artistic flair to formal areas.
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Incorporate Indian motifs like paisleys, floral patterns, and geometric designs subtly through wallpapers, rugs, or stencils. These elements allow for a contemporary take on traditional designs, making them feel fresh and relevant in modern settings.
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Balance traditional crafts with modern elements for a subtle yet impactful design. Pair vintage wooden benches with sleek metal accents or traditional Indian rugs with minimalist sofas. This approach creates a harmonious blend that honours tradition while embracing contemporary aesthetics.
Incorporating Indian crafts into modern interior design celebrates heritage while embracing modernity. By thoughtfully combining traditional elements with modern sensibilities, you can create spaces that are visually appealing and meaningful. This fusion enriches the living experience and keeps the spirit of traditional crafts alive in a modernising world.