INTERIOR DÉCOR TIPS FOR A PUJA ROOM AT HOME

In most homes, however modern or compact, a puja room or mandir oraprayer space is a must. Whatever the religion, all of us want an exclusive space in our homes to create a prayer space to talk to God. Be it an independent/large home or a small apartment space, we always find a prominent niche to create the puja room. Here are some expert interior tips to make this space a calming and transcendent one.

CHOOSING THE LOCATION AS PER VASTU SHASTRA

The first and foremost point is to choose where you want to set up your prayer space. The ideal would be to set it up either facing east or north-east. Vastu Shastra also recommends this. If this is not possible, you could place it in the west too but do avoid the south as this is not considered auspicious.

Ensure that this space is free standing and not placed under anything like a staircase, table, or shelf. Also, avoid keeping anything on top of the pooja unit.

If possible, choose a space that is not noisy as peace encourages introspection and reflection when you pray.

Keep it free of clutter – a neat space brings with it a sense of calmness and harmony, which are essential when you talk to your God.

CREATING A QUAINT SPACE IN A LARGE HOME

If you are building a house, you could design a dedicated room from scratch and customize it to be as elaborate or minimalistic as you wish. If you are moving into a villa or a large home that is already built, you can easily design an exclusive space. In this case, you could use a niche and put up lightweight wooden jaali doors to enclose it as a puja room. If you have a passageway with a wall at one end, you could use that space to set up your prayer space.

If you decide to build a puja room, the most preferred material as per Vastu Shastra is wood. Create one with metal details as that is considered auspicious. If you do not want to build a permanent puja unit or a bulky one, you could always enclose the chosen space using paneled wooden partitions.

CREATE AN EXCLUSIVE SPACE IN A COMPACT HOME

Our modern homes are built compact. And these usually don’t come with a dedicated puja room as the overall space available is very limited. However, this does not mean you cannot design one to suit the décor of the rest of the space. Choose from the many options available to create a puja room –

A wall-mounted unit – if you don’t have enough floor space. This could easily be mounted as a floating shelf above a telephone unit or a chest of drawers, making optimum use of limited space. Here, you could even think out of the box and get a triangle unit to be fit into a corner space, instead of looking for a traditional rectangular one.

Standing Puja Units – If you have the floor space, you could custom build a standing puja unit or choose one from the many ready-made options available. Choose one which has some shelves built in at the base so that you can store and easily access the puja essentials.

A chest of drawers – You could use place your deity on top of the chest of the drawers. However, ensure that the storage has related items – Vastu does not recommend the storage of non-puja related items and suggests that this place should be exclusive.

Partition a corner – Wooden jaali partitions can be used to separate the prayer space from the living room. Not only do these partitions offer some privacy, they can also double up as a décor element. Plus they are lightweight to be moved around during cleaning and don’t cost much. In the case of a fixed partition, you could consider one of glass with etched motifs as well.

SET THE AMBIENCE WITH THE CORRECT DÉCOR & ACCESSORIES

Use wood for the puja units or doors of a separate room as this looks rich. In case of movable partitions, using lightweight wood like MDF ensures that it can be easily dismantled, moved, and cleaned. You could use decorative jaali elements in the wood to enhance its look.

If going for a standing unit, you can also consider a marble one. The white of the marble signifies purity and serenity and is a preferred choice of many. You could also put in marble shelves if you have a permanent puja room.

In modern compact homes, the puja space is usually a part of the living room and as such should go with the rest of the décor. Hence, modern families prefer the use of glass and metal for their puja units.

To create a serene ambiance and highlight the space, you could use murals or a glass backlit panel with etching. Of course, lighting plays an important role – use soft warm lighting that will help in meditation. Use brass lamps, bells, incense burner, or candlesticks to up the décor as these help reflect light. If you have a separate puja room you could consider painting it yellow or orange as both these colors attract positive energy. If you like a soothing effect or want to meditate, you could also paint it a pristine white.

What designs did you like best? Leave us your comments and tips. For customized puja room solutions, reach out to our team – we will be glad to help you!

Balinese Indoor Garden

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The Balinese Indoor Garden is the representation of Balinese rainforests within the four walls of the house. Lush greenery with natural elements of the Earth and a hint of exotic is the perfect blend for the Balinese Indoor Garden.

Just like any other South Asian style garden, bamboo is used widely for the purpose of both structure and privacy.

Key elements to the Balinese Indoor Garden are plants, water, stone and shade. The essence of the Balinese Indoor Garden is based on the foliage and type of plants that are used in its creation. The height of the foliage may also give it the effect of a forest. It is hence not a surprise that Balinese Indoor Gardens require large spaces to be able to bloom in their full essence. Plants that grow vertically like palm, bamboo and banana and with horizontal growth like aloe and fern help create the lushness of the Balinese Indoor Garden.

A key element in the Balinese Indoor Garden is ‘Spirit’. This is expressed through a statue of either religious or mythical figures. Such figures always add an element of peace and tranquillity to the space. Like most South Asian origin gardens, Buddha is one of the most opted figures. Since Bali has a majority of Hindu population, Hindu Gods like Ganesha may be placed. Occasionally, animal figures like elephant statues are also opted for.

Adding a stone pathway through a foliage enhances the experience of enjoying the Balinese Indoor Garden.

Water adds the element of movement and life to the Balinese Indoor Garden. A small pond with koi with may be incorporated into the garden. Alternatively, a pond laced with lotus flowers adds to the aesthetic of the garden. If there are space constraints or the individual does not want to put in a water body, a small fishbowl or earthen pot with aqua vegetation may also be incorporated. A water fountain may also be a good idea.

In a Balinese Indoor Garden that has a large amount of space, a gazebo made of natural material such as hay, bamboo and wood may be put up. These create a cool escape within the garden. Bamboo tables, chairs and even swings would create the perfect relaxing environment.

The best part about South Asian indoor garden styles is that there is no compulsion of the kind of space that they require to be built in. They may be created in a small corner of a garden using the basic elements or may an extravagant indoor garden embracing all the space in a backyard garden.

From the maintenance point of view, Balinese Indoor Gardens are easy to maintain. The maintenance mostly involves watering and basic gardening. Depending on the foliage chosen, regular manicuring would be required as tropical plants may grow rapidly in the right environment.

If tropical and exotic gardens is your aesthetic, then the Balinese Indoor Garden is definitely meant for you.

Thai Tropical Indoor Garden

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A Thai Tropical Indoor Garden is said to be the perfect celebration of modern homes and nature. Most tropical plants can be grown indoors. As long as there is a good irrigation system built and with cool temperatures and adequate space, tropical gardens can thrive.

Thai Tropical Indoor Gardens have the essentials of a tropical garden which include plants with large leaves and thick vegetation along with a water body or fountain. Additionally, certain elements add the charm of a Thai Garden.

Bamboo: Asian Countries consider Bamboo to be a lucky charm. Not only does it abide by the rules of Feng Shui, it also adds an element life to the tropical garden. Asian culture also considers it a symbol of good fortune. Bamboo is mostly used to provide structure and create steps. Bamboo is also a fast-growing plant and creates a wall like structure that provides privacy.

Stone: Stone is added to the Thai Tropical Indoor Garden to add an element of aesthetic. Round stones may be placed on grass, or stone tiles are layered on the walls to create an appealing backdrop for waterbodies or fountains.

Elements of Nature: Earth, Fire, Air and Water are prominent features in any Thai Tropical Indoor Garden. They are given utmost importance. Among these, water is considered the most significant as it connects the different elements of nature and creates a soothing and tranquil aesthetic.

Furniture: The furniture in the Thai Tropical Indoor Gardens is generally bamboo furniture to appeal to the aesthetics of the setting. In the modern Thai Tropical Indoor Gardens, however people also invest in comfortable, neutral coloured furniture. Contemporary furniture may also be repurposed to suit the beauty of the Thai Tropical Indoor Garden.

Decorations: Decorations in the form of earthen pots filled with water and small fish, or with flower petals are often included to add an element of life and colour to the Thai Tropical Indoor Garden. In place of a pot, coconut shells or any similar alternative may also be used.

There is also a cultural significance to some elements of decoration that are added to the Thai Tropical Indoor Garden. Buddha, elephants and serpent heads are considered an integral part of Thai culture and are often added to the Thai Tropical Indoor Gardens. People also add the symbol of a lotus either in the fountain or as a bowl since lotuses are sacred flowers in Thai culture.

Thai Tropical Indoor Gardens may also be set up in small spaces like a balcony where faux grass may be utilised and smaller plants are placed with a wall of foliage or a bamboo screen. Folding chairs can be used for easy furniture and earthen pots of water complement the element of life to the minimised tropical indoor garden. A small Buddha fountain or a lotus bowl can easily be added to bring authenticity to the Thai Tropical Indoor Garden.

DO YOU WANT TO KNOW HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR GARDEN, KITCHEN OR BATHROOM IN THE MONSOONS?

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Our previous post spoke about how you could care for your home during the monsoons. Today, we will share a few more simple tips that will help you enjoy the rains sitting in a green garden or balcony. And how you can keep your kitchen & bathroom smelling great and free from mildew.

HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR HOME GARDEN IN THE RAINS

Not everyone has a green thumb. But the rainy weather is your best friend if you want to grow something in your garden. Just keep in mind a few dos & don’ts and you can enjoy this awesome weather amidst thriving green surroundings.

Rain-Proof Your Outdoor Deck!

If you have patio seating, ensure that it all-weather-proof outdoor furniture. You could use weather-proof polish on wood or get furniture in materials like wrought-iron, plastic, rattan or synthetic leather.

If you have a balcony that is partially covered, put it blinds that that keep away the rain water from. You can choose from a variety of options like bamboo or PVC-chiks or even transparent ones depending on your preference for fibre and finish. You could also install retractable awnings.

You can brighten up a gloomy day by add some color with artificial grass that can withstand rain. You can add bright cushions too – these can easily be carried indoors when not in use and hence saved from rainwater.

Avoid Over Watering

Be it a lawn garden or in a balcony, all of us have been guilty of overwater at one time or the other. Since the moisture content is already very high during this season, pay attention to how much water you are feeding your plant. Some plants don’t even need watering every day! Make sure there is no stagnant water by choosing well-draining bright pots and planters. This will help avoid root rot, keep away the mosquitoes and related ailments.

Prune Away!

Only when you prune, do you make way for new life to start on your plant. So snip away at the right places and watch the green shoot-out & flourish!

Befriend Your Natural Gardener!

Frogs, toads, earthworms – while they may make us go EWWWW they help your garden thrive as they keep away insects, pests and help to keep the soil fertile.

MODULAR KITCHEN CARE FOR THE MONSOON

Wiring? Leaks? Check

The moisture affects the electrical wiring and sockets. And your kitchen is a space that has many of these because of the appliances that are used. Make sure you do a check of these periodically to avoid any accidents or malfunction.

Check for water leaks in the kitchen, especially under the kitchen sink cabinet. These can have water leaks which could lead to mildew in the weather. Similarly, check for any holes or gaps and fix them with cement as monsoon attracts ants as well.

Food Storage

If you have open packets of snacks, chips, biscuits or pulses, seal them in airtight containers or zip lock pouches. You can also place small packs of silica gel as these absorb moisture.

Clean & Disinfect

Monsoon attracts a lot of germs. Always wipe down your kitchen counter tops and keep them free of moisture. Use natural disinfectants like citronella or neem essential oil that also keeps away bugs.

Aromatic Kitchen

The damp odour that is typical of the wet weather may be common in some kitchens which don’t have good ventilation. The natural aroma of freshly brewed coffee or a cake in the oven or some hot yummy food on the stove covers the smell of mildew to a large extent. For other times, keep perfumed bath salts in cabinets or burn essential oil to ensure that your kitchen is always smelling good.

TIPS FOR BATHROOM MAINTENANCE DURING MONSOONS

Strange but true fact – this is an area of the house which offers peace and comfort due to its privacy. Hygiene is of utmost importance and needs extra attention in the rainy season.

Electrical Connectivity Check

Here too, a wiring and electrical check is mandatory. Ensure your exhaust fan is work as this help air out the closed space of the bathroom and keeps the air circulating. Check your geyser is working well – you can enjoy luxurious dip in a bathtub of hot water in this damp weather!

Mats and Shower Curtains

Remove cloth foot mats as these don’t dry well in the rains and can give out a damp smell. Replace them with all-weather anti-skid bath mats. Similarly, ensure your shower curtains are dry and aired well to avoid fungus.

Bathroom Décor

Finally…pay special attention to the décor. Personalise your bathroom and create a soothing ambience by adding a few things. You can add a small pot of plant like Orchids which love the humidity of the bathroom or a Snake Plant or Aloe Vera which helps purify the air. Add small pots of aromatic bath salts or potpourri & burn scented candles. These not only make your bathroom look chic but also ensure that it smells great!

What are the other things that you do to maintain your garden, kitchen or bathroom during the rainy season? Do write in with your tips!

Indoor Zen Garden and Balcony Garden

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A Zen Garden, or a Japanese Rock Garden is a stylised garden created through a careful arrangement of sand, rocks, bushes, moss and water. Zen Gardens were originally created with the intention to imitate and recreate the feel of nature, in a miniature version that would aid in meditation and maintaining peace.

The newest growing trend is an Indoor Zen Garden within homes or in office spaces. Indoor Zen Gardens may be set up in a small corner, or even in a flat bowl.

Unlike the open space Zen Gardens, Indoor Zen Gardens are easier to set up and require lesser elements.

The two basic elements are required for an Indoor Zen Garden are rocks and sand. Small plants like Bonsai or succulents may also be added for aesthetic.

The sand used in Indoor Zen Gardens is fine sand. Sometimes, white sand is also used as it creates an appealing colour scheme.

The rocks used may be river rocks, or decorative glass rocks. This depends on the discretion of the individual. The rocks are generally either place one on of the other, with the largest rock at the bottom and the smallest rock at the top. Alternatively, the rocks may be kept in a line formation. The size and placement of the rocks may depict different things in the Japanese culture.

Keep in mind, that the formation and combination of sand, rocks and plants should not overcrowd the Zen Garden, and cause it to lose its essence.

Since Indoor Zen Gardens are much smaller and cosier, they are usually ideal for relieving stress and calming the mind.

Japanese Balcony Gardens are ideal gardens in a modestly sized balcony. They are also good for small space gardening. It permits full utilisation of the balcony space. Japanese Balcony Gardens are known for being a serene space with a minimalistic layout and presentation.

The inspiration of a Japanese Balcony Garden is Nature. The essence of the Garden is to create a space within the house where different elements of nature can be seen in harmony.

Nature is known to have a calming effect on the fast-paced human mind and the Japanese Balcony Garden attempts to calm the mind and relieve stress.

The elements seen in the Japanese Garden include stones, water or sand and plants. In the Japanese Garden, unlike the Zen Garden, has no specific symmetry or formation that the different elements have to be place in.

The elements in the garden depict different things.

For instance, Water symbolises life, and brings life to the garden. Water may be replaced by sand or gravel. Stones symbolise eternity and strength. Green plants depicts longevity and adds a longer life to the arrangement.

Rocks, in any type of Japanese Garden are a fundamental element that represents mountains, or are seen as a symbol of the figure of Buddha.

In both Indoor Zen Gardens and Japanese Balcony Gardens, a small statue of Buddha may be added to add an element of tranquillity.