- Warm and rich colors are key in Indian design. White is hardly seen at all, with earth tones and saffron assuming the role of being the neutral shade. Orange plays a major role here, especially shades like sunny mango and deep pumpkin. Red, purple, magenta and wine tones show up on everything from furniture finishes to carpets. There is room for cooler colors as well, such as turquoise and emerald jewel tones. Finishes may be elaborately painted or distressed, but they are rarely smooth and glossy.
- Indian home decor features bold furniture typically made of wood. A large chest of drawers, an open shelf or a canopy bed are classic elements. Look for furniture that contains eye-catching Indian details, such as panel insets with paintings or enamel designs; elaborate carving; bold color contrasts; mirrored panels; and medium-to-dark stains. A coffee table with a carved top might feature shelves underneath for stacking artifacts or art books. A chaise lounge may have a curved headrest that ends in scrolled wood. Use elegant pieces for storage, such as a rice chest, an ottoman or a shelf with several niches.
- Begin your accessorizing with textiles. Indian decor is not concerned with pieces that match but rather pieces that contain coordinating elements, such as fabric, motifs or small details like metallic thread. Look for paisley silk pillow covers, vividly dyed saris to use as throws and mosquito nets as canopies or window covers. Textiles often feature beading, fringe, small mirrors or appliques of contrasting fabric. Cushions are popular, too. Place them across beds, chairs and couches and scatter them on the floor or patio, too. Elaborate metal frames look perfect around mirrors, paintings and photographs.
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