Hand-spun Silk Sari Journey
In the heart of Bengaluru, South India, a home stands as a testament to the blend of tradition and modernity. By The Riverside's latest project showcases an Indo-Contemporary style that seamlessly integrates traditional South Indian household elements with contemporary design.
Upon entering the 3,000 sq ft space, one is immediately enveloped by a sense of warmth and familiarity, akin to being wrapped in an heirloom saree. This sensation is no coincidence, as the design journey for the studio began without a defined brief or theme. Instead, inspiration was drawn from the family's daily attire, antique furniture, and quiet pride in their heritage.
The home's design is filled with family heirlooms, from the heavy, carved wooden doors to the brass vessels that adorn the rooms. But the most striking feature is the strong visual connection that runs throughout the house, achieved through the use of the family's personal saree collection.
Vintage sarees, worn daily and carefully stored, are common in these households. They have been repurposed into panels, cushions, and coverings, creating a material continuity that ties the rooms together. The fabrics used in the home's design feature jewel tones such as indigo, peacock green, gold, and rust, reminiscent of South Indian textiles.
The jewel tones, exquisite materials, and layered aesthetics highlight the homeowners’ love for a contemporary-classical style that is enriched by the rich textures and colors reminiscent of South Indian heritage. Sandalwood, a traditional material in South Indian households, lines the cupboards, while the rooms have a soft, silk-like quality, reminiscent of daily-worn sarees.
The design of South Indian households is often influenced by function, and this project is no exception. Rooms are filled with repurposed furniture from the family's collection, creating a space that is both functional and beautiful. Brick was laid along the ceiling and silk was stitched into wardrobes in the design process, adding to the home's unique charm.
The repurposed sarees serve as a connection between the rooms, similar to a well-worn pallu. This continuity creates a sense of unity and cohesion, transforming the home into a living time capsule that reflects the family's cultural heritage while embracing contemporary aesthetics.
[1] By The Riverside. (n.d.). Indo-Contemporary Style: A Blend of Traditional and Modern Design. Retrieved from https://bytheriverside.in/indo-contemporary-style-a-blend-of-traditional-and-modern-design/ [2] Seraan, S. (2021, March 1). By The Riverside's Indo-Contemporary Project in Bengaluru. Retrieved from https://www.swatiseraan.com/by-the-riverside-indo-contemporary-project-bengaluru/ [3] Seraan, S. (2021, March 1). Embracing Heritage: By The Riverside's Indo-Contemporary Project. Retrieved from https://www.swatiseraan.com/embracing-heritage-by-the-riverside-indo-contemporary-project/ [4] Seraan, S. (2021, March 1). A Journey through Time: By The Riverside's Indo-Contemporary Project. Retrieved from https://www.swatiseraan.com/a-journey-through-time-by-the-riverside-indo-contemporary-project/
Inside the Indo-Contemporary style project by By The Riverside, the home's interior design is a reflection of the homeowners' lifestyle, incorporating elements of daily attire, antique furniture, and South Indian heritage. This home-and-garden project in Bengaluru seamlessly blends traditional South Indian household items with contemporary design, embodying a lifestyle that cherishes both cultural heritage and modern aesthetics.
