These expert tips will make your Diwali décor easy

Make It Lit

Diwali is incomplete without lights and there is no dearth of options to choose from these days. Here’s what designers recommend. “The use of geometric pendant lights and accent lamps are on-trend in 2021 with homeowners seeking unique lighting to add to their homes,” says Nikhil Agrawal, Founder and Architect, Design Atelier; while Varun Baweja, Founder and Interior Designer, Varun Baweja Designs, recommends opting for layered illumination. He says, “When done right, it amplifies the warm and comfortable festive atmosphere, so mix and match every lighting option that you can. Make sure dark corners are illuminated with soft accents or candles.” Hanging illumination such as chandeliers and string lights are great options to illuminate your room corners according to Singh. “You may also use rechargeable decorative battery lamps for side tables and other tabletops with no plug points in their vicinity. Dazzle the outdoor spaces using starry string lights. You may also drape string lights over large plants, hedges and trees,” he adds.
 

Colour It Right

The right hues can uplift any space and highlight the right elements in the best way possible. We asked the experts the trending colours for the festive season. Baweja recommends, “For Indian festivals, I love picking colors from our traditions like the red gulaal as deep red creates a mesmerising vibe.

My favourite colour this season is burnt orange which makes a statement in Indian rituals—the holy fire of havans, the marigold flowers for puja decorations, the linen used in shrines—choose this colour to inject brightness and cheer into your interiors.”

“Mustard, vermillion, royal blue and purple are the colours that will most certainly add spark to the space,” says Khosla. “Mix and match bright and bold colours and include them as visually-pleasing highlight elements in your décor, such as cushion covers, decorative accessories, and wall décor,” opines Singh.

Other Tips

While Agrawal suggests an eco-friendly yet luxurious Diwali celebration with a monochromatic colour scheme enhanced with contrasting décor products to create a festive vibe, Zachariah recommends wallpapers to perk up your space. “Incorporating some distinct and tasteful wall art and prints can help you stay inspired  through the year. Finally, add decorative LED lights to brighten up the evenings.” Since festivities involve entertaining and hosting, Khosla advises investing in good crockery, cutlery and tableware. “Add a traditional touch with brass lamps and urlis to make your space more beautiful.” 
 

How Designers Are Styling Their Space This Diwali

Though the tips shared above can be easily incorporated in our décor, we asked our experts to spill how they are decorating their homes for Diwali to get more ideas. Here’s what they had to say.

To imbibe warmth and a joyous feel into our space, we are using festive lights and decorative lamps. We will be revamping our home décor by using classy and eclectic wallpapers to transform some of the walls into accent walls. In addition, we are bringing in nature by adding potted plants in the interior spaces, in line with the spirit of celebrating a green and peaceful Diwali.”
 

How To Create A Cosy Seating Area (Video Tutorial)

Sitting together, playing cards, nibbling on tidbits and having a gala time with your loved ones is a great way to celebrate Diwali. To create a lovely seating arrangement at home, we asked Taral Jadhav, interior designer, event decorator and founder of Do It Up, to share a quick tutorial.

If you have an open space, you can replicate the look there, or else, in any other part of your home. She suggests using easily-available décor items from home to create this look, such as cushions, old wooden crates, candles, string lights, urlis and flowers. Watch the video above to learn how to create a festive seating arrangement at home in a quick way.