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A Home After Heart

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A home rings with the life and laughter of those occupying it. Here is a home of nature and sunshine, from Nirvana Design Studio

Words by Likhitha P Nair    Photographs from Nirvana Design Studio

Basically, a house is a structure with four walls and a roof above your head. It becomes a home only when it holds the heart and smiles of those who live in it. The home of architect Avinash Joshy and interior designer Steffy Thomas is simple, comfortable, yet personal. Their skill in designing and the depth of personal touch is what is special about this about this home situated in Kochi, Kerala. Walking in, you are immediately transported to a calm, serene living space close to nature. Entry to the house is from the west side through the foyer which has paintings by local artists placed against plain walls. The foyer opens up to double height living and dining area with a ceiling that is polished cement with horizontal grooves. This blends perfectly with the space and also the minimalist furniture. Each room feels extremely spacious. “We planned the house in a manner that there is privacy from the streets and also consists of views into the courtyard,” says Avinash.

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Sunshine and Grey

Since the dining, living and kitchen areas always bring the family together, they have been aligned in a single line, with a lot of space for movement. The living area has metal French doors and fixed windows that opens out to a beautiful courtyard. The plants filter the harsh sun, while keeping the flow of energy and the lightness of a beautiful day intact. Sitting on the couch, you look up to see lights hanging from a double-height ceiling that visually connects to the floor above.

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A century-old chest of drawers has been placed at the entrance of the living room as a prayer table. The modular kitchen has unfinished cement walls, giving it a rustic look. With little green bottles and bonsai plants on the fridge, green powder-stained wooden shutters and natural stone counter top, the kitchen looks almost like it’s been cut out of nature. What better place to plate your meals than here! The simple and minimalistic interiors of the house makes you feel comfortable immediately. The wall surfaces are a mix of eggshell paint, polished bricks and cement. The floors are of traditional gray oxide with inlaid brown oxide on the borders. Rugs made from coir define the spaces.

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Of Simple Things

The upper bedroom on the east side has a room-wide narrow window above the bed which lets in the early sunshine. The room is naturally well lit through the day. It has a floor to ceiling bay window made in powderstained wooden frames letting in the cool western breeze. The ceiling is made in weathered concrete sheet with clear polish. The master bedroom also has a bed-side window seat with adjustable curtains. The room is Steffy’s favourite spot in the house. “The bedside window that opens outside has an extension where you can sit and read in the evenings. The room has a different mood in each corner and with the changing shade of light from the sun. You never really feel like you have been in one place all day,” she says. The bedroom has an open bathroom, with the wardrobe acting as a partition between the sleeping area and the washroom. A painting of the famous Thrissur pooram by regional artists has been placed in the wardrobe. The inner partitions of the bathroom are finished in black oxide and the wash counter is an old wooden study table, with a plant resting near a meditating Buddha statue.

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The best part about this ‘contemporary but tropical’ home is its detailing. As architect Miles Van der Robe said, “less being more” fits the right description of this house.A wooden dining table which was built in-house, the sofa sourced from a local shop in town, a vintage grocery box and a ceramic ‘bharani’ in the kitchen, a small blue cycle on the TV stand and fresh indoor plants – adding all this up, it is evident that this home is where our heart is at.

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Architecture

5 Sustainable Interior Design Trends to Embrace in 2024

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As the world becomes increasingly aware of the importance of sustainability, it’s no surprise that eco-friendly practices are making their way into the realm of interior design. In 2024, we can expect to see a surge in sustainable interior design trends that not only enhance the beauty of our living spaces but also minimise our environmental footprint. From repurposed materials to energy-efficient solutions, here are five sustainable interior design trends to embrace this year.

Upcycled Furniture:

One of the most prominent sustainable interior design trends of 2024 is the use of upcycled furniture. Instead of buying new pieces, consider giving old furniture a new lease on life by refurbishing or repurposing them. From reclaimed wood tables to refurbished chairs, upcycled furniture adds character and charm to your space while reducing waste and conserving resources.

Biophilic Design:

Biophilic design, which emphasizes a connection to nature, continues to gain popularity in 2024. Integrating natural elements such as plants, natural light, and organic materials into your interior design not only enhances aesthetics but also promotes well-being and sustainability. Consider incorporating living walls, indoor gardens, and sustainable wood finishes to bring the outdoors inside and create a healthier living environment.

Energy-Efficient Lighting:

With a growing focus on energy conservation, energy-efficient lighting solutions are becoming a staple in sustainable interior design. LED lights, in particular, consume significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer, reducing both energy consumption and maintenance costs. Additionally, consider incorporating natural light sources such as skylights and large windows to maximize daylight and minimize the need for artificial lighting during the day.

Sustainable Textiles:

When it comes to upholstery and soft furnishings, opting for sustainable textiles is key to reducing environmental impact. Look for fabrics made from organic or recycled materials, such as organic cotton, hemp, bamboo, or recycled polyester. These materials not only reduce the use of harmful chemicals and pesticides but also minimize waste and support eco-friendly production practices. Additionally, consider investing in durable, high-quality textiles that stand the test of time, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Smart Home Technology:

In 2024, smart home technology continues to evolve, offering innovative solutions for sustainable living. From smart thermostats that optimize energy usage to home automation systems that control lighting and appliances, these technologies can help reduce energy consumption and increase efficiency in your home. Additionally, smart home devices such as occupancy sensors and smart meters provide valuable insights into your energy usage, empowering you to make informed decisions about resource management and conservation.

As we strive to create more sustainable living environments, embracing these five interior design trends can help reduce our environmental impact while creating beautiful and functional spaces. Whether you’re upcycling old furniture, incorporating natural elements, or investing in energy-efficient technologies, every sustainable choice contributes to a greener future for generations to come. So let’s embrace these trends and make sustainability a cornerstone of our interior design practices in 2024 and beyond.

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Architecture

Designing a Functional Home Office: Tips for Productivity and Comfort

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In today’s ever-evolving work landscape, the home office has become an essential sanctuary for productivity and creativity. Whether you’re a remote worker, freelancer, or entrepreneur, designing a functional home office is paramount for maintaining focus, maximizing efficiency, and enhancing overall well-being. Here are some expert tips to help you create a workspace that promotes productivity and comfort:

Choose the Right Location

 Select a quiet and well-lit area in your home that is conducive to work. Ideally, this space should be away from distractions like heavy foot traffic or noise from common areas.

Invest in Ergonomic Furniture

 Your office chair and desk are vital components of your workspace. Invest in ergonomic furniture that promotes good posture and reduces the risk of discomfort or injury during long hours of work.

Prioritize Natural Light

 Position your desk near a window to take advantage of natural light. Natural light not only enhances mood and energy levels but also reduces eye strain and fatigue.

Declutter Regularly

Keep your workspace clutter-free by organizing cables, files, and supplies. A clean and organized environment fosters clarity of mind and helps minimize distractions.

Personalize Your Space

 Incorporate elements that inspire and motivate you, such as artwork, plants, or motivational quotes. Personalizing your space can boost creativity and make your home office feel more inviting.

Optimize Technology Setup

 Ensure that your technology setup including your computer, monitor, keyboard, and mouse is optimized for efficiency and comfort. Consider investing in accessories like an adjustable monitor stand or a wireless keyboard and mouse for added flexibility.

Incorporate Greenery

 Introduce plants into your home office to improve air quality and add a touch of nature to your space. Plants not only enhance aesthetics but also have been shown to reduce stress and increase productivity.

Create a Distraction-Free Zone

Minimize distractions by setting boundaries with family members or roommates and establishing specific work hours. Consider using noise-canceling headphones or a white noise machine to block out unwanted sounds.

By implementing these tips, you can design a home office that promotes productivity, creativity, and overall well-being. Remember that every individual’s needs and preferences are unique, so feel free to experiment and adjust your workspace to suit your specific requirements. With a well-designed home office, you’ll be better equipped to tackle your tasks with focus, efficiency, and comfort.

 

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A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Colors for Your Home Interior

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Your home is your sanctuary, and choosing the right colors for its interior can significantly impact the atmosphere and ambiance of each room. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy retreat, a vibrant living space, or a serene oasis, selecting the perfect color palette is key. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of choosing the right colors for your home interior to reflect your personal style and create a harmonious living environment.

Consider the Mood You Want to Create:

The first step in choosing the right colors for your home interior is to consider the mood or atmosphere you want to evoke in each room. Do you prefer a calming and serene space, or are you looking for something more vibrant and energizing? Think about how you want to feel when you’re in each room and choose colors that align with those emotions.

Take Lighting into Account:

Lighting plays a crucial role in how colors appear in a room. Natural light can enhance certain hues while making others appear dull. Consider the direction and intensity of natural light in each room when choosing paint colors. Rooms with ample natural light can handle bold and vibrant colors, while those with less light may benefit from softer, lighter shades.

Create a Cohesive Color Scheme:

To ensure a cohesive flow throughout your home, choose a consistent color scheme that ties all the rooms together. You can achieve this by selecting a few key colors and using them in different combinations throughout the house. Neutral colors like whites, grays, and beiges make excellent base tones, while accent colors can add pops of personality and interest.

Explore Color Psychology:

Color psychology can help you understand how different colors can affect mood and behavior. For example, blue is often associated with calmness and tranquility, making it an excellent choice for bedrooms and bathrooms. Yellow, on the other hand, can evoke feelings of happiness and energy, making it ideal for kitchens and living areas. Consider the psychological effects of each color when making your choices.

Test Paint Samples:

Before committing to a color for your walls, it’s essential to test paint samples in the actual space. Paint a small section of the wall with your chosen colors and observe how they look throughout the day in different lighting conditions. This will help you make an informed decision and ensure that you’re happy with the final result.

Don’t Forget About Accents and Accessories:

In addition to wall colors, consider how accent pieces and accessories can complement your chosen color scheme. Throw pillows, rugs, curtains, artwork, and furniture upholstery can all add depth and dimension to your space while tying the room together visually.

Choosing the right colors for your home interior is a personal and creative process that can transform your living space into a place you love to call home. By considering the mood you want to create, taking lighting into account, creating a cohesive color scheme, exploring color psychology, testing paint samples, and incorporating accents and accessories, you can design a home that reflects your unique style and personality. So, let your creativity flow, and enjoy the process of bringing your vision to life!

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