Designing homes

The Indian ?home? industry has come of age and adorns a new garb and look

The buzzword is 'living in style' be it power dressing, designer homes, or flashy accessories. And the first in the list of 'style statements' comes home - a place that reflects moods and tastes of habitants and where there is peace, comfort and warmth.

To successfully design a home, there should be the right balance, between style and function, between fashion and comfort. In true terms, 'living in style' means taking care of each and every component - flooring, lighting, furniture,
accessories, bath fittings, kitchens, et al.

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With floors performing a dual role (functional and decorative), stress is on durability, maintenance, cleanliness and environment-friendliness. There are tiles, marbles, stones, wooden laminates and parquets to choose from. If tiles come in different finishes like glossy, matt and designer (print marble, ethnic finish, geometrical design, rock finish), then wooden floors like laminates, wooden veneer, natural wooden parquet, vinyls and carpets are equally popular.

Next in line are kitchens. Modular or pre-fabricated ones laced with accessories have metamorphosed cooking arena into the most lived-in room. These kitchens are hassle-free and come in exciting designs, finishes and are tailor-made to suit space, décor and taste. Made from aluminium frame structures and paired with laminated panels, modular kitchens are easy to fabricate, assemble and dismantle. These come equipped with appliances like burners, chimneys, microwave ovens and an array of accessories like wire baskets, pull-out tables, spice racks, ironing boards and dining tables.

Furniture is another important style maker. If earlier, run-of-the-mill furniture (sofa sets, chairs, centre tables and dining table) was there, now, accessories such as consoles, glass cabinets, wrought iron, wicker and period furniture are there.

Not to be left behind are 'modern age' bathrooms. Gone are the days when bath areas were considered an inconsequential part of home. Today, these are attention-grabbing with bath fixtures, showers, faucets, jacuzzis and shower panels. Shower systems come equipped with a variety of functions in a wide palette of durable surface finishes and are available with electronic or mutual control.

Just let your dreams take shape and make an impact!