Designing a Home That Speaks ‘You
Part 2 of "A Homeowner’s Journey from Chaos to Clarity"
The story of Ravi and Priya continues...
In continuation of "A Homeowner’s Journey from Chaos to Clarity"
Ravi and Priya had finally completed their home, carefully planned with a designer who understood functionality, materials, sustainability, and efficiency. But one thing still felt incomplete.
One evening, as they sat in their perfectly styled living room, Priya looked around and sighed:
"This home looks beautiful… but does it feel like ours?"
That’s when it hit them.
Despite all the planning, the space felt generic—like it could belong to anyone. It lacked their personality, their roots, their story.
Most homes today are designed with:
Scandinavian minimalism
Western-inspired pastel color palettes
Pinterest-perfect furniture that’s the same everywhere
But where is the personality? Where is the culture? Where are the emotions?
A home is not just about aesthetic beauty—it’s about emotional connection. It should tell your story, reflect your heritage, and make you feel at peace.
A well-designed home should:
Reflect Your Roots
Use materials, textures, and finishes that feel familiar.
Example: If you grew up in a home with wooden doors and brass handles, incorporating similar elements adds subtle nostalgia.
Celebrate Handcrafted & Local Art
Instead of mass-produced décor, incorporate handmade pieces that tell a story.
Example: A Pochampally weave framed as art, a Chettinad-style pillar, or hand-painted Warli designs on a wall.
Use Colors & Textures That Evoke Emotion
Not everyone connects with beige or grey!
Example: Earthy reds, deep blues, or rich greens inspired by Indian temples, nature, or traditional homes can create warmth and belonging.
Blend Tradition with Modern Comfort
Heritage-inspired elements don’t have to look ‘old-school’.
Example: A Jaali partition that allows light while adding Indian character. A handcrafted wooden swing in a contemporary setting.
Tell Your Family’s Story Through Objects
Not everything should be new! Repurpose old furniture or décor from family homes.
Example: Your grandfather’s old writing desk can become a reading nook. An old brass urli can be turned into a stunning centerpiece.
Incorporate Ritual & Sentiment in Design
A home should be designed around how you live and what matters to you.
Example: If morning tea by the balcony is sacred for you, design a cozy seating area that enhances that ritual. If you love festive gatherings, plan a welcoming central space for people to connect.
When Ravi and Priya revisited their home with this perspective, they made some simple but powerful changes:
Swapped generic décor for handmade ceramics and wooden elements
Hung up family heirlooms and traditional art instead of framed quotes
Created a small puja corner with soft lighting, rather than hiding it away
Suddenly, the space felt alive—like it truly belonged to them.
They realised design is not about following trends. It’s about creating spaces that feel like home.
A well-designed home should not just be:
A showroom of expensive furniture
A copy-paste version of what’s "in style"
A collection of catalog-chosen pieces