How to make your interiors interesting

To make your interiors interesting, use ethnic Indian elements by all means, but be sparing in their use to keep it clutter-free, says Nasir Masood, owner of Nas Home store.

When was Nas Home founded? What was the philosophy behind the store?NAS HOME was initially founded in 2004 under the brand name ZARA Furnishings. We underwent a re-branding initiative in 2010, in keeping with the new philosophy of a multi-brand format, with an emphasis on providing our clientele a wider variety and cutting edge design from the top Indian and international furnishing labels. What are the new trends in furnishing?The new trends in furnishings are emphasis on texture and detailing in fabrics, with attention to value addition work such as embroidery, stipple work, etc. to name a few What kinds of fabric are suitable for Indian homes?Typically, earthy natural fabrics such as pure cottons and linens or ones with a blend of poly cottons are more suited to Indian homes keeping in mind dust and maintenance issues. What kind of colour and fabrics go with smaller spaces in apartments?Lighter colours in the cream, ivory, off-white and beige family with hints of deeper and secondary colours are more appropriate for smaller spaces and apartments as they give a feeling of airiness or roominess. They visually and aesthetically enhance the proportions of tighter or more confined spaces. Can you tell us of some easy tips to revamp existing furnishing to make it look newer?The simplest way to revamp existing furnishing is to add a touch of detail here and there. For instance, change the cushion cover on your sofa, not just the designs but the size as well and they instantly transform the look of the furniture. On existing curtains, have a border of contrasting colour stitched on and on blinds have a flap done. This will serve in making them look as good as new. How can one incorporate traditional Indian furnishing like kantha, patchwork quilts, rajais, reed mats etc in modern homes?The key to pulling off this ‘fusion’ look and making it work in a modern home is using the traditional furnishing very sparingly and instead of going for contrasting tones, look at colour themes that blend with existing furniture, drapery, carpets or modern art.  Have Indian homes seen a change in terms of colour preferences and décor?Yes. Indians being more widely travelled than ever before and being exposed to various new design concepts in various social mediums are much more accepting of evolving colour palettes seasonally. Fashion colours such as purples, lilacs and fuchsias see much more movement now than earlier. What are the new fabrics that you’d like people to experiment more with in the future?Linen and jute would be the fabrics that people would like to experiment more with in future.What are the typically winter colours that one should see more of?The colour palette for the winter season comprises rich earthen shades of reds, rust, maroons and ochre that are an inherent part of any Indian scenery and are more vibrant and visible during the festive seasons. Apart from this the evergreen creams, beiges and off white also make their presence felt.