Frangipani Décor

I’d like to live here…

2012-02-11T06:51:00.000+05:30

Quilts of Goa : The Making of a Godhadi (traditional Goan Quilt)

2012-02-03T10:51:00.001+05:30

The traditional Godhadi is actually quite simple in its design, but like most crafts, it takes time, effort and attention to details to get it right.

Old saris and leftover pieces of cloth are reused to make soft adult and baby-sized quilts. In the demos at the workshop, we saw different kinds of techniques and patterns.

Here, a single 6-yard sari is folded into half. There should be no ‘fall’ on the bottom edge as that will double the thickness of the quilt in that area leaving the other side a bit lop-sided.

To make a thicker quilt, two saris can be used together. Here, the green sari was folded into half, then opened out so that only one green layer was on the table. The white sari was then folded and kept on that green layer. The other half of the green sari was then put on top, making it look like a delicious green coriander chutney sandwich. The saris are smoothed again and again with both hands to ensure that no creasing or puckering happens. It is easier if two or more people are doing this at either ends of the table.

This method of using little squares or triangles to create a design on the quilt involves a template and lots of cutting! The squares are then individually stitched to one another and then onto the larger fabric.

Once the saris are in place, a simple running stitch in white thread along the border holds the two folded halves together. Additional stitches running horizontally and vertically make the quilt stronger, as do designs with thread along the border (flowers, semi-circles etc). The women at the workshop prefer to work with sewing machines as the output is quicker and the strain on the eyes and body is reduced. They still do hand-stitching, though, but the sewing machine is fast gaining popularity in this tiny group of women who are keeping the craft alive.

Many hands make light work.

All images by me.

Quilts of Goa

2012-02-02T17:01:00.001+05:30

When I heard of a workshop on the Quilts of Goa, I had to attend. I’m not a quilter myself, but the idea of patching together little pieces of cloth lovingly by hand is magical to me. The recycling of old saris/fabric has long appealed to me. Giving old cloth a new lease of life in the form of quilts, cushion covers or even jewellery is such a wonderful thing to do.

The workshop was held at Goa College of Home Science, a bustling college that I hadn’t been to yet. As I entered the room, I was greeted by a display of quilts tacked up against the windows. This one, in particular, reminded me of stained glass. It was made by a 97-year old woman who still hand-stitches the traditional Godhadi (quilts). She was going to be felicitated in the afternoon, but I couldn’t stay for that session.

Look at the colours!

This one was machine stitched and is charming in its own way.

I loved the light filtering through this one.

The ‘frock’ pattern is popular. This is a mini-quilt, which is quite common in Goa. Pregnant women stitch these for their newborns and you’ll find a variety of patterns from animals, religious symbols to local Goan iconography.

Patrick Finn is a researcher who has been documenting the quilts of India for the last five years. Now based in Goa, he showed us some of the quilts from around the country. This is an exquisite one from Bengal. The stitching is identical on both sides – my mind just boggled as I tried to figure out how it was done. It is such fine work that you cannot see the beginnings and ends. Knots are barely visible – magnificent.

Textile designer Poonam Pandit is also based in Goa and now documenting the quilts of Goa. She hopes to work with these women to help them with quality control and make it a more sustainable, thriving industry.

This hand-stitched choli has patterns on the back and sleeves. It took the maker 15 days to do this. I loved the autumnal colours – shades of rust and brown and white.

Coming up next: How to stitch a Godhadi Quilt.

The Quilts of Goa

2012-01-28T17:23:00.002+05:30

Sujata Noronha, one of my favourite people in Goa, sent me this email and I'm happy to reproduce it here:

As part of an initiative we are involved with, we are organising a Godhadi Workshop with 4 traditional Godhadi wallis from Keri, Bali, Margao and Panjim at the Goa College of Home Science on Tuesday 31st am. The day is a collaborative workshop between the Goa College of Home Science, Research Institute for Women and the Needlecraft Group.

The day will begin with a brief opening and felicitation of 97 year old Godhadi walli from Santa Cruz, a presentation on Quilts of India by researcher Patrick J Finn, an exhibition of the Needlecraft Group's collaborative quilt themed on Goa, and exhibits of many traditional forms and styles of Goan godhadis and manes.

The sessions will begin at 10.00 am and end by 4. 30 pm.

Please come to learn more about this revitalisation project, meet these traditional needlecrafters, join the Needlecraft group and view the exhibits.

Clay Foot-Scrubbers

2012-01-22T19:57:00.001+05:30

On the recommendation of a mum in M’s preschool, I picked up two of these clay footscrubbers at a recent craftsmela here. For just Rs. 20/- each, these little things are simply wonderful. They are so much more effective than pumice stones and leave your feet soft after a scrub. Sole-satisfying indeed.

Have you used these?

The crafts fair was busy and packed with artisans from all over the country. There was a disappointing stock of pottery and earthenware, though. Practical things are always in demand and we’d like to see more such stuff next time.

and beautiful, textured, handmade paper

I’d like to live here…

2012-01-21T06:10:00.000+05:30

Via Velvet and Linen

I’d like to live here…

2012-01-14T12:07:00.001+05:30

From Verandah Magazine found via Velvet & Linen

Countdown to Christmas

2011-12-01T06:46:00.001+05:30

This would be a wonderful way to prep for Christmas with the kids.

via Pinterest

Christmas is a’coming

2011-12-01T06:46:00.000+05:30

Image via NYT

Rajee Sood in my home

2011-11-28T15:00:00.001+05:30

When I saw the Kantha cushions on Rajee Sood’s online store, my heart skipped a beat. I fell in love with them and I pined after the white one. I emailed Rajee for more information and several sleepless nights later (over a cushion!), I decided to forego the white one (sob!) and try the red one instead.

The cushion cover is everything Rajee promised it would be: soft, delicate, bright and filled with lines of hand stitched thread. It is divine.

I had lots of ideas for where the cushion should go – my favourite carved bench in the hall; a planter’s chair, a settee…

Then, you-know-who came home from playschool and said, “That’s my pillow!” And so it has been. Rajee’s beautiful red kantha cushion became my son’s new sleeping buddy. He put it under his head, held it close to him, snuggled into its softness at every given moment. He loves the colours.

When I can get it away from him, it’ll find another home. Until then, Rajee, know that your work is admired and loved.

Browse through the lovely things available at Rajee’s store here.

{DIY} Ornament Chandelier

2011-11-24T06:07:00.000+05:30

Christmas is just a month away. Eeek.

This easy-peasy Ornament Chandelier should be fun to make with the kids (yours, not mine)

Tutorial and image via Real Simple

You are invited…

2011-11-23T17:39:00.001+05:30

{Gardening} Pebble Mosaic Floor

2011-11-18T06:46:00.000+05:30

Isn’t this garden floor gorgeous? Like a carpet.

Via Pinterest and Pinterest

{DIY} Frame a favorite fabric

2011-11-17T06:59:00.000+05:30

A beautiful piece of cloth is a work of art in itself. And when there are memories woven into that thread, it makes it even more special. The images below give us an idea of the variety of fabric that can be framed and how such art might fit into a home. Watch out for the different sizes, textures and of course, prints, patterns and colours.

This was the image that set off my desire to have framed fabric.

Stretch fabric as you would a canvas.

And here’s a tutorial on how to do it yourself at home.

Have you framed a favorite fabric?

Images 1&2 via Little Green Notebook, 3- Design Darling, 4- Real Simple, 5-A Little Great

Wednesday Wishlist: Mr. Darcy’s Declaration

2011-11-16T06:32:00.000+05:30

I’m in love with this pillow. It made my heart go a little faster – that’s sad I know, but I’m a hopeless romantic on some days.

Anna’s Trunk on Etsy has such lovely, lovely things. Sigh.

Santa, are you reading this?

Cork Planters

2011-11-11T06:40:00.000+05:30

Think Small.

Via Pinterest

Spilt Milk

2011-11-11T06:39:00.000+05:30

Brilliant!

Found via Pinterest

Casa da Moeda Festival 2011

2011-11-10T17:42:00.001+05:30

We are delighted to invite you to the 3rd Casa da Moeda Festival (25-27 November 2011, Panjim, Goa). Casa da Moeda is our home and was the Mint of Goa in the 1830s. You can find more information about the Mint, the house and previous editions of the festival here. All talks will take place at Casa da Moeda. The walks will begin from Casa da Moeda.

SCHEDULE

Friday, 25 November
5.30 pm: Traditional Brass Band
6.00 pm: Dr. Miguel Mateus : Heritage Intervention
7.15 pm: Dr. Luis Dias : From the Cradle to the Grave – the life and work of composer Franz Liszt on the occasion of his birth bicentenary.

Saturday, 26 November
9.00 am: The Goa Reporter Walk: led by Chennai-based writer Chandrachoodan Gopalkrishnan
6.00 pm: Rajendra Kerkar : The Importance of the Western Ghats to Goa’s survival
7.00 pm: Clement DeSylva : The Migration of Goans to Mumbai
8.00 pm: Caetano Filipe Colaço : A Tribute to Mickey Correa (1913-2011)

Sunday, 27st November
9.00 am: Tree Walk : led by botanist Miguel Braganza
6.00 pm: Wendell Rodricks : Revival and Celebration- The Kunbi sari
7.15 pm: Victor Hugo Gomes : Goa’s Agrarian Past
8.15 pm: Music recital : Orlando Noronha and friends in concert

All events are free and open to the public. Seating is limited and available on a first-come-first-served basis. For more information visit casadamoedagoa.wordpress.com or call 9922642059.

Casa da Moeda, Near Head Post Office, Panjim, Goa 403001.

Links: Blog | Facebook.

Supported by

{DIY} Funny Switchboards

2011-11-10T06:54:00.000+05:30

By the talented Priya Sebastian, found over at the Indian Summer blog.

You could also try stickers like this:

by Henrietta Smith, found at Furniture Fashion.

Coco Shambhala

2011-11-09T14:57:00.001+05:30

In a quiet corner of Goa, away from the crowds, is the village of Nerul. Popular for Coco Beach, the village has some lovely little restaurants known for the local food.

Coco Shambhala is a group of villas on Coco Beach. Each villa has its own pool and garden and is decorated with simple and elegant furnishings.

See more here. Images used with permission.

B is for… Benches

2011-11-08T05:41:00.000+05:30

Via Peter Carlson Photography | Source not known, sorry | Ellen McDermott Photography | Source not known | James Michael Howard

Pretty as a Picture

2011-11-07T05:08:00.000+05:30

Via

via

Via

Big, Small, Colour, Black and White, Home-made, Commissioned…Whatever your choice of art, make it something you enjoy looking at every single day!

West Elm Sale

2011-11-06T19:55:00.001+05:30

West Elm is having a sale on a lot of their products including lighting and furniture. The site displays prices in INR (for those of us in India) and many of the prices are very reasonable.

I was especially taken in by the range of lighting available. My favourites:

This one would look great in our house

I also love these industrial pendants very much. I’d love to see these in our kitchen.

More here.

Easy-Peasy Peanut Butter Bird Feeder

2011-11-04T06:29:00.000+05:30

What you need: An old toilet-paper roll, peanut butter, bird seed

Tutorial here.

{DIY} BlockPrint Door Knobs

2011-11-03T06:45:00.000+05:30

Found at the ever-creative Maryam in Marrakesh. This door is at her boutique hotel, Peacock Pavilions.

Nanowrimo 2011: are you taking part?

2011-11-02T18:53:00.001+05:30

For a magazine article, I'm looking for Indians who are taking part in this year's Nanowrimo. Anyone?

Please get in touch asap (and ask your friends, please). Thanks!

Varnam

2011-11-02T06:57:00.000+05:30

While doing the post on Shopo’s Diwali Fever, I fell in love with everything on the Varnam store. They have such gorgeous cushion covers, lamps and other accessories. The goods are simple, elegant and quite inexpensive.

Some of my favourites:

Channapatna Candle Stands

Cushion covers in lovely colours. I’m still hankering after these.

Channapatna Bharni tea-light holders

Channapatna Bharni lamp base

and these gorgeous door-knobs that could be lollipops (or tops) in disguise

See their entire range here. Great going, guys.

You can catch a glimpse of the founder’s home on Rang Decor.

Vogue.in is hiring

2011-11-01T18:04:00.001+05:30

Vogue.in is hiring. From their Facebook page

“We’re looking for an intern to work at our Mumbai office for 3 months. Must be interested in fashion, beauty and the digital space, and be able to work with photoshop. Interested applicants can mail their resumes to vogue.digital@condenast.in”

Crochet Chest by Boca Do Lobo

2011-11-01T07:46:00.000+05:30

This chest designed by Lilliana Ferreira from the Portuguese design firm Boca Do Lobo is a real beauty.

Crafted to imitate traditional crochet work, this is actually metal. In the designer’s words,

The mood of the moment dictates fantasy and heritage. As its name denotes, this sensational piece was inspired by the traditional craft of crochet, a process of creating fabric that consists of pulling loops of yarn through other loops. The method of crocheting was reinterpreted in this piece through the forging of 60kg of classic brass pulls by a local jeweler resulting in a mesh which adorns the sinuous silhouette of the piece. The solid wood frame consists of seven drawers finished with a darkened gold leaf that ensures a mystery and an elegance which contrasts with the vibrant jewel toned purple of the handles.

See more of their beautiful work from the Limited Edition collection here, including this very colourful Pixel cabinet and a gorgeous, gorgeous gold folding screen.

Images courtesy Boca do Lobo.

Thought for the month ahead

2011-11-01T06:59:00.000+05:30

Via Pinterest

Happy Diwali

2011-10-25T16:46:00.001+05:30

(NASA image of India on the eve of Diwali)

Beautiful to look at, but think of the light pollution! Anyway, happy Diwali, everybody. Have a peaceful, bright one.

Shopo Diwali Fever

2011-10-24T16:54:00.001+05:30

Shopo is a wonderful place to buy handcrafted and unique items from some of our favourite designers and bloggers. From their stock, here’s what is on my wishlist:

These gorgeous plum and lavender cushion covers from Varnam would go beautifully with our upholstery

(actually, I want *everything* from the Varnam shop)

This Mogra High in Mumbai candle from Forty Red Bangles sounds divine

And I would like this Lokkhi Silk Tote, please

Colours Dekor and Shopo are having a giveaway on the Colours Dekor blog. Hop on over!

DIY: Newsprint art

2011-10-22T22:36:00.001+05:30

Saw these images over at Little Blue Deer and was struck by the simplicity (and ease) of these newsprint art.

Make your own version of the iconic LOVE print

Try random shapes or a collection of your favourites. Chairs, perhaps?

Images via Little Blue Deer

Goa ThinkFest 2011

2011-10-12T19:52:00.001+05:30

I'm excited to be blogging about the upcoming Goa ThinkFest 2011. This three-day festival (4-6 November) has a very impressive line-up of speakers from around the world. Thomas Friedman, Tina Brown, Leymah Gbowee, Frank Gehry, Hari Kunzru, Mohammed Hanif, Nandan and Rohini Nilekani, Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao, Mani Shankar Aiyar, Kapil Sibal, Jairam Ramesh, Omar Abdullah, P Chidambaram, Shashi Tharoor, Pavan Sukhdev, V S Naipaul, William Dalrymple, Siddhartha Mukherjee and Ashis Nandy are only some of the names on the calendar.

The world is coming to Goa this festive season. It's going to be an exciting end to the year.

See the list of speakers here.

Auction – The Property of the late Dr Jamshed J Bhabha

2011-10-12T13:20:00.001+05:30

Dozens of precious,rare and valuable items from the estate of the late Dr. Jamshed Bhabha are going under the hammer today and tomorrow. There’s lighting, jewellery, silver, glassware, paintings, rugs and furniture among other items. The catalogue is worth a look through just for the beautiful pieces. Try not to look at the prices!

Here are some of my favourites:

A Lalique Globular “Provence Shade” and Chandelier

A Regency-Style Ladies Writing Desk

A Regency-Style Side Table

A Sheraton-style display cabinet

A Bergere Chair

The jewellery is exquisite as is the art (including Hussains, Gaitondes and several Jamini Roys). See the entire catalogue here.

I’d like to live here

2011-10-08T05:24:00.000+05:30

Imagine stepping out to this every morning…

Via

Genius DIY ideas for your garden

2011-10-07T20:25:00.001+05:30

Whether you have a little patch of green on your windowsill or a large landscaped lawn, these simple ideas are totally do-able anywhere.

Forget which plant is which? Try these ingenious plant markers with old cork bottle stoppers tucked onto chopsticks. Use permanent marker to label the plant. via

Must rope in the local municipal corporation to try this out with all the discarded tyres that we find on our roadside. Spray paint, colourful plants, magic. via

Put that spare colander to use as a hanging basket. Perhaps for a herb in the kitchen? via

Turn an old chair into a vintage planter via and via

Turn an empty detergent container into a DIY watering can. Via

Hello October!

2011-10-01T06:49:00.000+05:30

Via

Ichbaan – handcrafted textile art

2011-09-27T19:54:00.001+05:30

Today, I’m pleased to feature Ichbaan – an exclusive range of handcrafted textile arts and home furnishings. According to founder Shruti Jain, “Our
creations are a unique combination of modern design and vintage techniques handcrafted in unimaginable fabrics and techniques.” Ichbaan also produces bespoke limited edition or custom built pieces suited to your requirements. All pieces are hand crafted in India.

I was intrigued with the cityscape textile art and asked Shruti about it. “The cityscape textile art belongs to a very contemporary city wall art series which is inspired by India and its people, with an added functionality of a wall clock. The scenes from the streets of India are represented of fabric through hand embroidery, having wall clock as a part of the view,” she explains.

Follow Ichbaan on Facebook to learn more about their work and products.

Preparing for November

2011-09-19T03:30:00.000+05:30

From now until November, we will be working on sprucing up our house in time for the three-day festival we host every November. We have an eclectic line-up of speakers this year and I’m really looking forward to it.

After all the cleaning we have in store for us is done and dusted with, I want to hunt for some interesting planters to keep in the house to replace the antique porcelain that gets put away during the festival. We can’t risk breakages (or theft) with the dozens of people that traipse through the house during the three days. While terracotta looks good anywhere, I’d like something more elegant and decorative this time.

We have similar pots (below) that will get put away.

I want to have some more artwork around the house, hopefully home-made (either paintings or photographs). God knows we have the wall space for them. I want fun, fresh artwork in the kitchen and bathrooms. I’m a bit obsessed about doing this correctly, especially since we debate a lot about putting new nails into our fragile laterite walls. I was thinking of vintage advertisements for the bathroom and some bright prints for the kitchen. I want to clean and re-use vintage kitchen items already in the house like baskets, copper pots and pickle jars.

In the bathroom, I want to repair and install a similar vintage medicine cabinet that we have lying around. Ours is a pale yellow and needs a bit of cleaning.

I’d also love to find a good spot for one antique window that is lying around in the attic.

In the middle of all these ambitious plans, I need to co-ordinate the planning, keep the speakers in the loop and most importantly, find sponsors to help with our expenses. If you know of anyone who could help defray our (rather minimal costs),do get in touch with me. We are not a big corporate event and I would appreciate any leads for grants or like-minded funders in India or elsewhere (corporates are welcome,subject to meeting our ethical criteria). Thanks.

For more information, visit the Casa da Moeda site. And if you’re in Goa in November, drop in!

Images via Junkgarden, Jon Day Photography, Mary McDonald, Mixx.se, Tumblr, Source not known, French Larkspur, Erin Rodriguez.

The Latest Lonny is now Live!

2011-09-10T23:55:00.001+05:30

Happy 2nd anniversary, Lonny!

My favourites from the September issue:

Images via Lonny

Orange Bicycle Giveaway @ Simz Corner

2011-09-08T17:11:00.001+05:30

These cool hippo bookends and lovely mustard Ganesha from Orange Bicycle are up for grabs at Simz Corner. The giveaway is open to all (yay!) and closes on 19 September. Hop on over and take a look.

Wish for the month ahead

2011-09-01T06:34:00.000+05:30

May your boat not be blocked by a rubber ducky. Sail on!

Image via Maluna

Love… Minimalist Children’s Books Posters by Christina Jackson

2011-08-30T05:44:00.000+05:30

I discovered Christina Jackson’s work via the Pratham Books Blog and was instantly enamoured by her minimalist children’s book posters. These are edgy, funky and very modern.They would look totally at home in a traditional or a contemporary setting.

See all her wonderful posters here.

Booked for life

2011-08-27T23:54:00.001+05:30

Love this Penguin classic inspired wedding invite. Wish I had thought of this – isn’t this cool?

See more bookish invites on the Pratham Books Blog

I’d like to live here

2011-08-27T05:01:00.000+05:30

This is a gorgeous country home in Andalucia, Spain. See more of it here at Chic Deco – the interiors are as lovely as the outdoors.

Love…The new H&M collection

2011-08-26T01:29:00.000+05:30

I’m in love with these cushion covers and teatowels from H&M. We’ve got similar bottles at home and I’m really tempted to dust them off for a photographic session and then find a screen printer to do them justice.

and these cloth storage bags.

I haven’t looked at the clothes yet. Just goes to show my priorities these days!

See more at the H&M site.

{Guest Post} From Painted Porcelain to Lovely Room

2011-08-25T06:36:00.000+05:30

Hi, everyone, I’m Susi and I write as a guest blogger for Design Shuffle, a fabulous social media site that promotes interior designers and their work from around the world. My writing focuses on things I'm passionate about: interior design, decorating ideas, home furnishings, gardening, travel and art. I get to look at gorgeous things all day and write about them. I'm a very lucky girl! I am happy to be invited by the lovely Miss Frangipani to blog about blue and white porcelain inspired rooms. Blue and white porcelain has been popular for centuries and it is amazing to see how this age old decorative art can inspire traditional, cottage and contemporary spaces. Enjoy!

Martha Stewart via

Blue and white porcelain originated in China and was later copied by European and American firms. Its ancient heritage makes it a classic choice for traditional interiors. The blue and white combination, however, can work in every style room.

At Home via

Blue and white tiles set the tone for this crisp blue and white living room. Dark blue walls are offset by white mouldings and plantation shutters. Love the spots of bright green.

Love Design via

Blue and white porcelain pieces mix with more contemporary elements in this living room. Bold stripes and patterns mix with solid colors and clean lines. All great living room design ideas.

House Beautiful via

A floral contemporary wallpaper with a deep navy background reminds me of flow blue china. Lots of white keeps the room from being too dark.

DecorPad via

Blue and white toile has the same decorative feeling as blue and white Delftware. Charming and classic. Gold trimmed blue panels also have a classic feel to them.

Censational Girl via

Blue stenciling on cream walls recall spongeware or splatterware pottery. This room has a more casual feeling to the space set by the folk art inspired walls.

The Lennoxx via

Blue and white porcelain is as much about pattern as it is about color. Love the mix of blue on white and white on blue florals in this crisp, white bedroom design.

Shades of Chic via

A blue and white porcelain inspired wallpaper works in this modern dining room. Modern pendant lights don't compete with the floral pattern on the wall.

This content is provided by Design Shuffle, where you can find and share talented interior designs from from New York interior designers, Los Angeles interior designers, and more, check out the latest at Design Shuffle.

Diane Keaton’s Spanish Colonial

2011-08-24T23:51:00.001+05:30

Spanish Colonial is one of my favourite architectural styles and this beautiful early 1920s property is no exception. This lovely Beverly Hills home belongs to the talented and beautiful Diane Keaton and the images give me lots of ideas for our own home here in Goa. The dark wood, the styling, the elegant nooks and crannies. I’d like to move into that library right now.

See the entire slideshow here (via AD).

This clock is no good if you’re on a deadline.

2011-08-18T16:39:00.001+05:30

Via Maluna

Spell bound

2011-08-03T17:00:00.001+05:30

Gorgeous vintage Indian jewellery, all the way from Australia. See more of this silver collection here.

Visit Spell here.

All images via Spell’s blog.

I’d like to live here

2011-07-31T06:52:00.000+05:30

See more of this lovely Tuscan home here.

Via Everything Fab

Live, Love and Decorate – Martyn Lawrence Bullard’s first book

2011-07-21T23:02:00.001+05:30

Designer to the stars, Martyn Lawrence-Bullard’s first book will be out this October. Called ‘Live, Love and Decorate’ this promises to provide a peek into his celebrity homes, his design philosophy and his “know-how into creating a sensational home”.

Lawrence-Bullard’s homes are traditionally photographed by the talented Tim Street Porter and I’m sure the book will be replete with gorgeous images.

How to make your decor more exotic

2011-07-18T06:59:00.000+05:30

I am delighted to host this guest post by Arcadian Home Decor. Founded in 2002, Arcadian Home Decor originally started selling decorative home lighting fixtures and lamps online with its first website Arcadian Lighting, and has become one of the top Internet retailers for home lighting products. Visit their website and cool blog for more information. Enjoy.

Looking for a way to design your home décor in a way that reflects your ethnicity? Or perhaps you're after a look that idealizes your favorite getaways? Either way, if you want to make your house decor more exotic, it's actually pretty easy. Look towards exotic, tribal, ikat or suzani prints for your textiles, and then add some exotic relics you may have collected. Take a look at these beautiful images for tips on making your home décor more exotic.

Apartment Therapy via Elle Décor

In this gorgeous living room, designer Anne Backer created a space that reflected her world travels. You'll see that she mixed and layered prints and colors, which is common in exotically decorated homes.

Elle Décor (via)

In the home of Brazilian designer, Sig Bergamin, home accessories and decor ranging from mid-century modern to Bahia and back, decorate this living room. A pair of Kenyan masks flank a painting, hung above a sofa draped in suzani fabric and colorful pillows.

Luster Interiors via Nuevo Estilo

For those who desire an exotic interior on the more subdued side, an accent like a zebra-skin rug is a great place to start. You can also decorate with art, lighting and furniture from exotic locales in lieu of playing with prints and patterns. Love that copper wall decor!

AphroChic (flickr) via Elle Décor

This bedroom, too, is subdued, though it is, of course, full of African influences. You can replicate this look by decorating your bedroom in white, browns and blacks, laying a jute rug and zebra skin rug around your bed. To complete the look, don't forget to hang African masks on the wall, if you can find them.

Archinspire (via)

This Balinese bedroom is so serene. Who wouldn't feel at peace getting to go to bed here, everyday? Get this look by decorating with Balinese wood accents, and draping knotted white fabric above your bed for a canopied look. Hopefully now, you're one step closer to achieving a more exotic look in your home décor. For more ideas, read the design magazines of your favorite destinations and frequent international fairs for handmade, exotic décor or art. Or, of course, you could hop on a plane to your favorite getaway and handpick some items yourself...if only!

Content provided by Arcadian Home Decor, a site that specializes in top quality home accessories at extremely affordable prices. Come visit us today!

Gorgeous spaces I’ve been writing about

2011-07-17T16:39:00.001+05:30

I’ve been writing a series of articles for Home Review magazine. They are a leading design magazine in India and tend to have a focus on modern, contemporary spaces.

Here are some of the spaces I’ve written about lately. (Note: Images are not from my articles, but sourced from the web. To read my article, you need a copy of the magazine or archives from the publication’s website.)

Cheryl Tiegs’ tropical LA Home (Home Review, April 2011). See more images here.

A Lake house in Kamshet by Opolis Architects (Jome Review, June 2011). More images here.

Kid Rock’s surprising home (June 2011). More images here

The Yellow Brick House (Home Review, July 2011). More images here.

Twenty Five Lusk (Home Review, July 2011). More images here.

Emersonmade in India

2011-07-13T18:33:00.001+05:30

I have long been a fan of Emersonmade. I love their quirky photos, elegant clothes and impeccable styling. These images are from a recent trip to India and I think she looks so gorgeous in these colours and fabrics. Great photography, too.

I like the idea of having henna on just the finger-tips rather than the whole hand.

A tux with a kurta (tunic) and skinny jeans. Looks great on her. Not sure if I’d be able to carry off the combination!

and some tunics from her new India collection

All images via Emersonmade. Love.

Wednesday Wishlist: USB Locket

2011-07-13T06:06:00.000+05:30

Via Pinterest

Lonny July/Aug 2011 ~ Things I love

2011-07-12T11:22:00.001+05:30

The new Lonny is out and it is full of lovely spaces as usual. These are my favourite images:

Love… that painting on the cover. It is fabulous!

Love… that chair! It’s the Aurora armchair and I’d really like one, please.

Love…that colour palette

Love…this gorgeous yacht-turned-restaurant in Heidelberg, one of the most beautiful places I have been to.

Love…these simple photographs of nautical images.

The beauty of simplicity

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What do you think of this chair?

This is from a cottage in Nova Scotia which was featured in the NYT. The chair was made in honour of the owner’s birth, by his father’s roommate at Harvard, in 1969.

I love the simplicity and elegance of the design. A long plank for the back, a smaller one for the seat and two legs. Voila! A chair! A design like this is so easily do-able; I’m not sure how sturdy it would be, though. I’m quite tempted to ask our carpenter to do something similar for us with the piles of left-over wood we have stashed in our house.

The house itself is very lovely, with lots of vintage and modern pieces blending seamlessly into the decor. I find that blue colour on the wall very soothing and it is magic with the outdoors. See the full house tour here.

Reclaimed Furniture ~ Narmadeshwar Exports

2011-07-11T06:16:00.000+05:30

While writing about Furnism’s Goa series, I discovered Narmadeshwar Exports, a Jodhpur based company that exports furniture and other accessories. I really liked the range of reclaimed furniture available on the site. From sideboards, bedside tables and cupboards, there is a good selection to choose from.

The company has a lot of other styles of furniture available, but in my opinion, this series was the best. See more here.

I’d like to live here

2011-07-09T06:59:00.000+05:30

I know you can’t see much of this house in the photo. This is a cottage on a hilltop in Nova Scotia and has the most amazing views. The house itself is gorgeous and you can see the interiors (and the jaw-dropping outdoors) here.

Love…Furnism’s GOA series

2011-07-08T06:51:00.000+05:30

I discovered this Goa series of furniture quite accidentally just now and was quite taken by them. Designed by Furnism, a Danish company, the GOA series of chests and sideboards are made from reclaimed wood, salvaged from demolished buildings and old structures in India.

I love the look of the reclaimed wood and the patina is wonderful. It inspired me to leave more furniture unpainted or unvarnished. Aren’t these lovely?

Furnism “develops furniture and accessory objects from a vision of sustainability, social awareness and a belief that, like art, our material surroundings can inspire and motivate us to greater things.” Amen to that.

Visit the Furnism website here.

A vintage wedding ~ Kate Moss

2011-07-08T06:18:00.000+05:30

Another non-decor related post. Apologies; couldn’t help myself!

When Kate Moss married Jamie Hince on Friday, her look was decidedly vintage. I rather like the sheer, clingy dress – it is perfect for her. The flower girls are so cute in their simple little smocks, flowers in their hair and simple pumps. Do you like it?

Photo via

Something blue

2011-07-07T17:09:00.001+05:30

This is not decor related, but how cool is this? Messages from the bride’s nearest and dearest to guide her down the aisle. What a wonderful keepsake and a lovely twist to the old ‘something blue’ tradition.

Via

Gelato Sheets

2011-07-07T06:28:00.001+05:30

I spied this colourful sheet on the equally colourful Bright Bazaar blog recently and it looked vaguely familiar. Wait a minute! We’ve got two of these right here at home!

We have two single vintage sheets which I’ve been using for M’s crib. The colours are a little faded, but they’re still very cheery and soothing at the same time. Ours are yellow, cream and blue striped and I like them very much!

Image via Bright.Bazaar

PS: I just spied this identical sheet hanging to dry in the neighbour's home this morning. Must have been the rage at one point, I think :)

Bikes in your bedroom (or any other room)

2011-07-06T06:45:00.000+05:30

Do you have bikes inside your home? We do! Mr.R’s fancy bike (with a zillion gears, came back with us from England) and now lives in our entrance hallway next to our bookcases. I hope to get a companion for it soon. M’s shiny new green tricycle doesn’t really count.

Via Notmybeautifulhome, Brabourne Farm, Keywordpicture, D*S via Riding Pretty

Greige on my mind

2011-07-05T06:22:00.000+05:30

Not many houses in India do greige well. In fact, I don’t know of any. We do yellow and vanilla and pinks and greens. Pale blue and white are other favorites. The occasional red (or orange) feature wall will make an appearance but not a sophisticated gray or navy. Nope.

Why is that I wonder? Is it because painting one’s home is such an expensive affair that we can’t afford to experiment? Very few people in India really DIY painting their homes. We hire painters. And painters with all their paraphernalia can be an unaffordable proposition if you change your mind about your colour.

Or is it because the light here is so bright and can be harsh at times? Gray does well under soft, mellow light. How will it show under the Indian sun?

Well, the monsoons outside our battered Dutch doors are in full swing and it is putting me in the mood for some greige. Do you love this colour? I enjoy the shadows it creates, the smoothness and elegance it conveys. It can be bright or cozy depending on the shade used. I love these rooms; don’t you?

All images via Greige (the world’s best blog for people passionate about gray :) Hop on over to see many, many more beautiful images.

Love…Harriet Damave

2011-07-04T06:39:00.000+05:30

I’ve known about Harriet Damave for some time, but had not seen much of her lately. I was therefore delighted to find a photo of her beautiful hand painted porcelain hearts on the Verandah House blog. She paints her porcelain in the traditional Dutch Delft technique using cobalt oxide and a gloss glaze. I love the hearts series but there are a lot of other beautiful things in her store.

Whimsical Brooches

Wall hangings

and necklaces in lots of designs

Don’t forget to check out her other etsy store where she sells fun painted stuff including mugs like the ones below, customised to a photograph you send.

I’d like to live here

2011-07-02T06:02:00.000+05:30

Via awesomespaces

Introducing ~ New York Goa Diaries

2011-07-01T14:35:00.001+05:30

I am delighted to introduce to you a new blog – New York Goa Diaries – written by AM, a young architect who divides her time between NY & Goa.

AM and her husband are building a house in Goa. The blog hopes to record the growth of the house, discuss sustainable architecture and AM’s attempts to lead a ‘green’ life here in Goa. The introductory posts talk about the philosophy of this project, design concepts and the inspiration behind it. There are site photos and other inspirational photos, which you might enjoy. I’m really looking forward to watching this project develop because this is going to be one lovely house!

Visit New York Goa Diaries here and say hello to this new blogger-on-the-block!

In the NYT: The Ahluwalia Residence in Nandgaon

2011-06-28T16:39:00.001+05:30

The NYT has recently featured the Nandgaon home of Kawal Singh Ahluwalia, former husband of jewellery designer Jamini Ahluwalia and father to Maithili, owner of Bungalow 8. With the Phansad Wildlife sanctuary and the sea visible from the house, it is indeed a “view to give thanks for”.

Read the article here.

Ayesha Puri ~ All Things Pretty

2011-06-28T11:08:00.001+05:30

You’ve seen Ayesha Puri’s new range of furnishings all over the blogosphere lately. This young lady gave up a corporate career to launch her own line called ‘All Things Pretty’ and has cushions in a wide range of materials. She plans to expand to table and bed linen soon.

From traditional designs to contemporary motifs, you’ll surely find something you like here. These are some of my favourite covers:

All Things Pretty is certainly going places. Her range now retails at over ten stores including Barefoot in Goa (which is just round the corner from my house and chock-a-block with lovely, lovely things). Ayesha’s also part of Style Radha, the new online store by the fab girls at The Key Bunch.

Visit the All Things Pretty Facebook page here or shop on Etsy.

I’d like to live here

2011-06-25T06:31:00.000+05:30

Image via symbiosis

{Photographer} Brie Williams

2011-06-20T06:11:00.000+05:30

I was quite taken by the work of photographer Brie Williams, when I spotted some of these images on the DesiretoInspire blog recently. Every one of these rooms has given me ideas for our home. These are such simple spaces, but elegant and inviting. Lots of little lessons to be learned here – in terms of colour, styling and art. You can browse the rest of Brie’s terrific portfolio here.

I’d like to live here

2011-06-18T06:27:00.000+05:30

Via Symbiosis

My heart beats for Navy

2011-06-17T19:12:00.001+05:30

I LOVE these navy silk curtains. Aren’t they gorgeous?!

World Busk 2011 - Join us at Literati, Calangute on 18 June

2011-06-09T12:23:00.001+05:30

Apologies for all the non-decor posts. I’m drowning in deadlines and other things (as you’ll read below). If you’re in Goa on 18 June, please come and say hello!

We’re busking at our favourite bookshop, Literati, on Saturday 18 June 2011 to raise funds for our charity Child’s Play India Foundation. Do join us for an evening of classical and light music. Entry free.

For more information or to RSVP, click here.

See you on the 18th!

Introducing India’s first Official BookCrossing Zone

2011-06-02T16:44:00.001+05:30

I am delighted to be managing India’s first* Official BookCrossing Zone (OBCZ) right here in Panjim. BookCrossing, for those of you not familiar with the term, is a social networking site that connects people through books. Users register books on the site (doesn’t matter if you’ve read it or not) and then ‘release’ it in a public place for someone to find (called a ‘wild’ release) or give it to someone you know (called a ‘controlled’ release).

The OBCZ is located in Panjim Inn, one of Goa’s most popular heritage hotels. I’m grateful to Jack Ajit Sukhija for saying yes to the OBCZ and I hope you will all drop in when you’re next in Goa (or in the neighbourhood). Panjim Inn is also home to a lovely art-gallery and cafe, so please come visit our little book-box, take anything you like (Bookcrossing books are always free!) and let us know what you think.

I’ll be leaving a bundle of books tomorrow; if you’d like to give some books to this wonderful project, please leave them at Panjim Inn or send them to me. If you email thefrangipanijournals at gmail dot com, I’ll give you my postal address.

I’ve been wanting to do this for so long, and I’m glad it has finally happened!

Join bookcrossing if you haven’t already. It’s marvellous and you’ll be so glad you did. My user-id is wordsworth1612 and the details of the OBCZ are below:

The link to the PanjimInn-OBCZ
http://www.bookcrossing.com/mybookshelf/PanjimInn-OBCZ/

Books currently available at PanjimInn-OBCZ: http://www.bookcrossing.com/hunt/20/2773/116732/660998

See you on BookCrossing (or at Panjim Inn!)

-------------------------

* I say ‘first’ because there’s no record of any other OBCZ’s in India. I’m happy to be corrected.

Portulaca

2011-05-26T06:48:00.000+05:30

Blooming on our veranda.

Didn’t know what it was called, but discovered a similar plant on the Mad Momma blog. Please correct me if I’m wrong about the name!

It’s Curtains for this one (Need ideas here)

2011-05-25T21:51:00.001+05:30

See this photo? This is the informal entrance into the house. The photo is taken from the dining room looking outward, so the door is to your right (partially open).

The window with the ugly curtain overlooks the neighbour’s house. Their verandah is on a higher level – the same level as the window, actually. Which means that if it isn’t for a curtain set against the window, privacy becomes an issue.

I don’t like this kind of window-treatment. To me, it seems outdated and well, it doesn’t look nice at all. I hesitated posting this photo – not exactly flattering. Neither does it fit in with the kind of elegance of the house in general.

So, I ask you for help. What alternatives can you suggest?

Here are some problems as I see them:

There is a pair of windows, followed by a full length door that closes off the window when required. Which means a regular curtain rod may not really work.
We need a solution to keep the curtain in place – flyaway curtains defeat the privacy issue while thicker curtains will block the remaining natural light. This is a dark corner of the house, as it is.
My idea was to have one of those cafe-curtains – the kind that go halfway across the window and offer light and breeze while still protecting your privacy. I’d try a curtain rod at the top and bottom instead of these wire-‘rods’ that we have at the moment, just to maintain the tautness.

Any other ideas?

Images via Southern Living, Great Interior Design, Martha Stewart, Little Emma English Home

I’d like to live here

2011-05-21T06:20:00.000+05:30

Ahhhhh. All that green. Just looking at it makes me feel cleaner, lighter, fresher. Those rolling waves on the hills are like a green velvet blanket spread out under that red house. And when the sun makes an appearance, the greens shift to yellow and gold and the shadows in the folds are dark and delicious.

Image found at Show and Tell

Collector’s Day

2011-05-18T15:12:00.001+05:30

Today is International Museum Day and the Museum of Christian Art (MOCA) in Old Goa has been marking the occasion with a week-long calendar of events. MOCA is one of Goa’s best maintained museums,set in the Santa Monica convent premises and you must visit if you come to Goa.

Sunday, May 15 was Collector’s Day. MOCA had arranged a eclectic display of collections sourced from the public. Here’s what was on display:

Iconography

Pencils, spoons and frogs

coins and notes

transfer ware

miniature bottles, perfume bottles,

and matchboxes galore.

The collectors pose for the camera.

The evening ended with some music, as benevolent angels looked on.

What do you collect?

cross posted here.

MOCA blogs here.

I’d like to live here

2011-05-14T06:03:00.000+05:30

There’s something about neatness and symmetry that gets me every time.

Via Awesome Spaces

I’d like to live here

2011-05-07T06:35:00.000+05:30

Via Outdoor Sanctuaries

Spray painted rocks and shells

2011-05-05T06:01:00.000+05:30

I must admit that the idea never occurred to me until I saw the rocks that Rajee Sood spray painted gold for a shoot. They looked amazing and blended in so beautifully with her calm and peaceful decor. I was reminded of this when I chanced on this photo on Pinterest.

Aren’t these silver shells lovely? A bit too shiny, perhaps but a nice idea nevertheless. Would a different colour look better, I wonder?

Image via Pinterest

I couldn’t find any more good images of painted shells. Have you seen any?

Rocks, on the other hand, are a-plenty. See chalkboard paint rocks, painted and stencilled rocks and even a tutorial for a rock-bookend using spray painted rocks via D*Sponge.

Have you spray painted rocks or shells?

Blom House, Copenhagen

2011-05-04T16:38:00.001+05:30

I was browsing through photographer Richard Powers’ fantastic portfolio when I came across this lovely home in Copenhagen. Every photo has lots of things for the eye to admire and many ideas to copy. What do you think of the super-sized Gandhi artwork in the dining room?

I absolutely loved this gold wallpaper in this powder-room. What an elegant choice! It goes really well with the mirror and lights too.

See more of this house here and keep aside an afternoon to browse through Powers’ collection of beautiful houses, places and interiors here (including three lovely houses in Sri Lanka with those perfect tropical punches that make you go aah).

For the month ahead

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Something to make you smile.

What do you do?

Here’s to a happy May. Sunshine, for those who crave it. Rain, for those who need it. Remember to ignore the signs – they never did anyone any good.

Via Room269

I’d like to live here

2011-04-30T06:32:00.000+05:30

Flickr, via Symbiosis

Love…The Rose Chair

2011-04-29T06:36:00.000+05:30

More info here. Found via Outdoor Sanctuaries

Green Thumb Decor at the Mint House

2011-04-28T12:34:00.002+05:30

I’ve been moving plants in and out this week. This is what it looks like at the moment.

The entrance hall has three bookshelves along one wall. Here’s one:

This is the Fiction and Poetry cupboard (English language books only). Part of my TBR collection is housed here, as a reminder to get moving on them.

I got this container from the Dastakari Haat that came to Goa last year. It sits in a vintage plate and the shells and pebbles are from a recent trip to Vainguinim Beach.

Our telephone table gets a shot of green in a shell vase.

In one corner of the veranda, a Periwinkle stands guard with a terracotta duck. A windmill spins madly in the April breeze.

This table needs some serious love. It is wooden, the polish long worn off in the onslaught of the monsoons; the top is marble and could do with a scrub/polish. I really like this table and hope to revive it, perhaps for indoor use someday…

Close-ups of the table vignettes. The brown tips on the plant are not due to lack of care. That’s the pink flowers saying goodbye and making way for a fresh bunch. Really.

The ceramic watering can is also from Dastkaari Haat.

Did you notice Pinocchio hiding in the forest? You can catch some of his adventures on my other blog.

The long ledge running along the front of the house has a whole row of assorted greens. I want to paint these pots a deep maroon, so that they’ll stand out.

Right now, we are a pink garden. There’s bougainvillea,

and Periwinkle

and this one that I don’t know the name of.

We’ve also got a new growth of coriander that survived the pigeons.

Thanks to Patty for this lovely series on her blog. I’ve got tons of inspiration for my ‘garden’!

Architecture Digest to have an Indian edition

2011-04-14T15:49:00.001+05:30

Conde Nast will launch AD’s Indian edition in March next year. Can’t wait.

Wednesday Wishlist

2011-04-13T06:13:00.000+05:30

No, not a camera, but a pencil sharpener! Isn’t this cool?

Via Savvy Housekeeping

5 things I love but won’t work in my house right now

2011-04-11T12:59:00.001+05:30

You know when you see a gorgeous photo and your heart goes thump-thump a bit? Like many of you, I have oodles of these images gathering e-dust on my hard disk, waiting to be pulled out as inspiration for our own space.

Well, here are 5 things are very, very lovely, but they might not work in our house right now. Here’s why:

1. Crisp white bedding. Oh my. How I’d love a bed with white sheets. But with a 2 year old child and an almost-200 year old house that attracts more dust than a Berber tent, dust issues are MAJOR, to put it mildly. Patterns, it is then, for now.

2. Floor to ceiling bookshelves. We have the tall rooms for this, for sure. The problem? I’ll give you three: It’s difficult to find competent carpenters to do a job of this calibre in Goa. Even if we do, it is likely to be prohibitively expensive. And our biggest fear? We’ll do this major project and then promptly discover a wet patch on the wall the next monsoon. Sigh.

3. Ruffled curtains. I like the idea, but where would I put them, huh?

4. Dark, dark walls. I don’t know anyone in India who has navy or gray walls. Do you?

5. A Zebra piñata. No reason why I can’t do this here. Just need to convince the family now :0

Photos via Tumblr: Think Decor/ Sweet Home Style / Bookshelves

Thought for the week ahead

2011-04-10T06:49:00.000+05:30

Via Maluna

Thought for the week ahead

2011-04-03T06:38:00.000+05:30

Have fun. Pencil it into the schedule, if you must.

Antiques ‘n’ Ethinix Clearance Sale

2011-04-01T12:11:00.001+05:30

This treasure trove of old and new things has been around in Goa (Porvorim, to be exact) for over nine years, but I only got around to visiting them now. They advertised a clearance sale in the papers recently and this is what they had on display.

(I’m sorry for the bad photos –the light was not too good indoors and I was also balancing a half-asleep toddler who didn’t care much for antique reproductions* (but wanted to take a huge marble elephant home). There’s no accounting for taste, I tell you.)

Walls of mirrors in metal and wood

A staircase lined with boxes of all shapes and sizes.

painted wooden trays

clocks

a funky tricycle which could be a magazine rack

dozens of photo frames (priced between Rs.150-600)

and a whole menagerie of wonderfully whimsical animals

You can’t see it too clearly here, but this wooden owl has a baby owl in her tummy.

and my favorite – this half-metal, half-painted horse.

Visit them here.

* A lot of the stuff isn’t really antique, but made to look old by craftsmen in Goa and Rajasthan. They also specialise in custom-made furniture.

Thought for the week ahead

2011-03-27T06:33:00.000+05:30

Via Maluna

Elizabeth Taylor R.I.P

2011-03-23T21:34:00.001+05:30

It is an eerie coincidence that my last post was about a beautiful photograph of Liz Taylor in a little girl’s room. I’ve just heard that Elizabeth Taylor, one of the greatest beauties of the last century and a most iconic actress has died.

Liz’s classic beauty and incredible screen presence will continue to thrill her fans for a long, long time to come. May her soul rest in peace.

(Wallmurals)

(Natural Interior Design)

I’d like to play here…

2011-03-22T14:42:00.001+05:30

Never thought that I’d covet a nursery, but that pink Liz Taylor really got to me. She’d look fabulous in any space and in a little girl’s room…wow!

See the rest of this fab apartment (belonging to Laura and Diego Garcia) here.

Sink Planters

2011-03-22T06:21:00.000+05:30

Up in our attic, we have not one, but two vintage porcelain sinks gathering dust (and spiders..).

I spied this gorgeous antique bathtub converted into a planter and am toying with the idea of doing something similar here as well.

Martha Stewart

Other variations on the theme:

The Angry Pincushion

JunkMarket Style

OneFortyThree

The Living Green Solution

Thisisnotikea

And this one and this fabulous yellow one on Flickr.

Our vintage sinks are VERY heavy, though (I’ve not been able to move them myself and we’re contemplating hiring a couple of strong men to help us shift them!) and I’m not sure they would sit well on a metal stand, no matter how tough. Something closer to the floor might be more suitable, but we’ll have to be careful about where we place it on our wooden floors.

Any suggestions on how to use a sink? I don’t want to throw away a vintage piece.