Blending heritage & contemporary design

Chhaya Sharma

The festival of lights illuminates our homes and brings a unique opportunity for homeowners to transform their living spaces. The essence of Diwali lies in its traditions, yet contemporary homes call for a delicate balance between respecting heritage and embracing modern design trends. In this article, let’s explore how this fusion of the old and the new allows for a rich design narrative that captures both cultural reverence and modern elegance. As Indian homes become more globalised, blending traditional elements with contemporary interiors creates a festive environment that feels both rooted in culture and relevant to modern lifestyles.

Reviving Tradition: The Role of Cultural Symbols

Traditions are the bedrock of Diwali celebrations. From the lighting of diyas to the intricate patterns of rangoli, every element tells a story. These symbols of prosperity and joy are deeply ingrained in Indian culture and remain integral to the design ethos of Diwali. Rangoli, traditionally made with coloured powders, symbolises good luck and welcoming energy. In contemporary homes, designers are moving beyond the conventional, incorporating rangoli-inspired patterns into floor designs using marble, tile inlays, or even glass. Moreover, the diya is the symbol of light and victory in Diwali. While the classic earthen diya remains a beloved staple, modern versions in glass, brass, or metallic finishes offer an updated look. Designers are also leaning into artisanal lanterns that mix traditional shapes with contemporary materials, making them an elegant, reusable feature for Diwali and beyond.

Modern Elegance: Infusing Contemporary Design for a Festive Look

While tradition sets the stage for Diwali, modern design principles allow for a streamlined, and functional environment. Modern homes often feature neutral tones like whites, greys, and beiges. To infuse a festive spirit, designers suggest using accent pieces in rich Diwali-inspired hues like deep maroons, golds, and vibrant oranges. These accents can be integrated through statement cushions, festive rugs, or metallic accessories, keeping the overall look refined yet celebratory. Instead of traditional chandeliers or overhead lights, designers are incorporating recessed LED lighting, pendant lamps, and geometric light installations that create a subtle, warm glow.

Sustainable Festivities: Eco-Conscious Design Choices for Diwali

As more people become environmentally conscious, sustainability has begun influencing festive décor. Diwali, traditionally associated with excess, is now being reimagined through an eco-conscious lens.  For example, handcrafted bamboo lanterns or rattan seating add an earthy, elegant touch to Diwali celebrations. With sustainability in mind, homeowners are opting for energy-efficient lighting such as LED diyas or solar-powered lanterns. These modern lighting solutions provide the same festive glow while reducing energy consumption, making Diwali more sustainable for the environment.

Another emerging trend is upcycling. Designers are encouraging homeowners to repurpose old furniture or decor items by giving them a fresh, festive look. For example, an old wooden chest can be repainted in vibrant Diwali colours and used as a statement piece in a contemporary living room, blending the nostalgia of the past with the sensibilities of modern design.

Celebrating the Fusion of Tradition and Modernity

Diwali is more than a festival; it’s a time when families come together to honour their past while embracing their present. As Indian homes embrace the fusion of tradition and modernity, the season offers a timeless aesthetic that honours both cultural roots and contemporary tastes. This Diwali, let us focus on creating spaces that are festive and welcoming and are thoughtful reflections of the unique blend of past and present.

Chhaya Sharma, Founder and Principal Designer at Design ArTEC