The Bengali ethnicity dwells in our hearts and souls. It has been an integral part of our identity for generations. Our deshi traits are quite often vividly portrayed in our daily lives in some way or the other. So why not incorporate a splash of our rich history and culture into your homes? In this blog, you will find 7 tips to spruce up your home interiors so that it exudes that ethnic charm!
1. Add Nakshi Kantha wall accents
One of the most effortless, yet effective methods to add a Bangaliyana touch to your home is by hanging framed traditional artwork. This adds an ethnic flair and a well-defined look. It can be a conventional Bengali painting, or even a tapestry consisting of deshi motifs, and/or pattern. You can attain this by hanging artwork of Nakshi Kantha, or Nakshi Kantha inspired artistry. Not only will this add a touch of locality into your room but it will also be successful in portraying the delicate art of stitching, displaying an aesthetically pleasing wall. These artworks will also bring forth the opportunity to incorporate vibrant colours to the room because bright hues and Bengali culture is a match made in heaven!
2. Include local fabrics
Each district of our country has its unique identity, story, and heritage. For instance, Tangail has a fascinating heritage of producing intricate jamdani. Rajshahi is famous for its Rajshahi silk. Other prominent deshi textiles include Khadi, Muslin, Jute, etc. Hence, a jamdani print table runner gracefully flowing down the dining table captures the Bengali essence very well. Additionally, some rich Rajshahi silk cushion covers or Muslin curtains will amp up the Bengali décor of your home interiors. Using handcrafted block print textiles for bedsheets, or even sofa covers will not fail to create the deshi ambiance.
3. Create a statement corner
A statement corner at one spot of the room might elevate the room’s interior décor in more ways than you can imagine. Create a comfy seating arrangement by throwing in a satrangi or jute rug with some pillows, or a couple of bolsters lovingly known to us as ‘kolbalish’. If you are looking for something more constructive, then place a divan, or even an antique trunk may do the trick. Opt for shades such as ochre, burnt orange, or rich brown to jazz up your very own deshi zone.
4. Accessorize with Bangladeshi handicrafts & traditional items
You can always embellish your home’s interior decoration using detail-oriented showpieces. The first thing that comes to mind when we try to visualize a Bangladeshi inspired room adornment is the intricately decorated mini rickshaw models. This upholds the local craftsmanship’s exquisite delicacy and makes the room quintessentially deshi.
Bangladesh has a rich history of workmanship. With some of the best handicrafts in the Asian subcontinent. Therefore, the use of pottery or clay can just be the tool to achieve a traditional Bangladeshi appearance. Clay pottery or terracotta vases would make the perfect timeless addition to your living room. Available at very reasonable prices, the terracotta household items will not only radiate the tawny orange tint but will also go easy on your wallet! Also, when your home echoes with the laughter of your near and dear ones during a gathering, serve that delicious food in some clay tableware. The guests will not only love the food but the presentation as well.
5. Swing away all your thoughts in the swing!
One of the most common Bangaliyana room décor pieces is the swing. It is more commonly known to us as ‘dolna’. Hang in one in the common area and make it comfy by adding in some pillows and you have the showstopper of the room. You can also place a bookshelf near it stocking it up with your favourite Tagore tales or Sukumar Ray poem books for your little ones. Sit back in the swing with a book in your hand, and relax during your much needed ‘me time’ with a steaming cup of chaa. What more does a Bengali need?
6. Illumination
Gravitate towards hurricane lamps instead of glamorous crystal chandeliers, or pendant light fixtures while introducing light sources to the room. This will add a hint of rusticity, and also enlighten the room with soft dusky warmth. You can also go for colourful gamcha patterned pendant light for that traditional rural feeling. Moreover, dangling a few cane pendant lights will also capture the Bengali impression very well, yet give a modern and chic look to the room.
7. Use classic wooden furniture
It is always a great idea to take a walk down memory lane and pick up inspiration from them. If you are lucky enough to own that heirloom of furnishings still, it is time to dust off the dirt and position that armchair on your veranda or even in a corner of the living room. Alternatively, a trip to Old Dhaka might give you the exact armchair you were looking for. Go for a wooden ornate chest of drawers displaying floral hand carvings and inlays for storage. This will serve as a multifarious element as it acts both as a storage unit, and enhances the beauty of the room. On top of that, you can go for brass accents; for the handles of your drawers to give it an extra antique Bengali look.
As you can see, it is very easy to add a touch of your roots into your home’s interior. With a few pieces of room décor elements, you can attain the Bangaliyana aesthetic that you’ve dreaming of! In addition, if you’re seeking professional guidance with your interiors, contact us for an online interior design consultation without having to get involved in a lengthy project-based process!
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