Minimalism for Traditional Indian Homes: 10 Interior Design Tips

Kavya Sethi
4 min readJun 3, 2023

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Achieving minimalism in Indian homes can be quite a challenge because we as Indians love everything that is ornate and grand. We can’t help but add some sparkle and colour to every nook and cranny of our homes. And let’s not forget our love for sentimental value — we can’t throw away that old non-functional cupboard or plastic containers.

Ahh, Indian moms and their love for containers.

‘Achieving minimalism in desi homes is like trying to convince our grandmas to switch from Masala Chai to Green Tea.’

But with some creativity and ruthless decluttering, we can make minimalism work in our desi homes. Who knows, we might even start a new trend — “Desi Minimalism” anyone?

Read on to find out a few tips from the best interior designers in Delhi that can help you achieve an Indian minimalist home.

1. Start with the basics

Before you begin your minimalist journey, it’s essential to understand what minimalism truly means. Get your family on board and convince them that minimalism is about living in a clutter-free space and can only be achieved if everyone works as a team.

Take a look at the rooms in your home and determine what you really need and what to get rid of to give you a clean slate to work with.

2. Keep it clutter-free

Clutter is the enemy of minimalism. In an Indian home, this can be a challenge. But by being selective and choosing only the most meaningful pieces, you can create a minimalist space.

Because let’s be real you don’t really need that old VCR player and rusty tapes. Unless you’re going to watch “Hum Aapke Hain Koun” for the 50th time. Donate it to a local library or charity and free up some space.

3. Choose a neutral colour scheme

Start with a base of white or beige, and add pops of colour sparingly. You can experiment with different shades of grey or even warm earthy tones like terracotta and mustard yellow. The key is to keep it simple and not go overboard with too many colours.

Because we’re done with the stereotype that Indian homes only use heavy floral prints. Good luck convincing your mom.

4. Invest in quality pieces

When it comes to furniture, quality over quantity is the way to go. Look for clean lines and simple shapes that will complement your minimalist design. Investing in multi-functional quality furniture is a smart way to make the most of your space and create a more functional and versatile living environment. This tip is most emphasized by the best home interior designers in Delhi.

Quality pieces + multi-functional design? It’s a win-win.

5. Incorporate natural elements

Bringing nature into your home is an essential aspect of minimalism. Use natural materials like wood, stone, and cotton to create a sense of calm and serenity. In an Indian home, you can also incorporate plants and flowers to add a touch of colour and freshness to your space.

6. Upcycle your stuff

If you’re ever hesitant to throw something away, remember that you can always upcycle it instead! Upcycling is a creative and eco-friendly way to repurpose old items and give them new life.

From transforming clothes into bags to repurposing furniture, the possibilities are endless. So next time you’re tempted to toss something in the trash, consider how you can upcycle it instead!

‘It’s like transforming trash into treasure!’

7. Embrace negative space

Negative space is a crucial element of minimalist design. It’s the space between objects that gives your design room to breathe. In an Indian home, this can be challenging, as we tend to fill every space with something or the other. But trust us, a little bit of breathing room can work wonders for creating a sense of calm and order.

8. Let in natural light

Natural light is a critical aspect of minimalist design. It helps to create a sense of space and openness, and it’s also good for your health and well-being. In an Indian home, you can maximize natural light by keeping windows unobstructed and using sheer curtains or blinds.

9. Play with textures

Use textures to add a sense of depth and interest to your space. In an Indian home, you can experiment with textures like jute, silk, and cotton to add richness and variety. And if your uncle insists on keeping that furry rug from the 70s, tell him it’s time to let it go!

10. Don’t be afraid to experiment

Minimalism doesn’t mean you have to stick to a strict set of rules. Don’t hesitate to play around with various colours and design styles until you discover what suits your taste. Get creative and have fun.

In conclusion, achieving minimalism in Indian homes can be challenging, but it is certainly not impossible. By following these tips you can embrace a minimalist lifestyle. Remember to prioritize function over form, keep it simple, and be ruthless with your decluttering.

With a little effort and a lot of creativity, you can turn your home into a minimalist haven. So go ahead and give it a try, and see how minimalism can transform your life!

Having trouble transforming your space? Don’t know where to begin your interior design journey? Contact one of the best Interior designers in India and experience a hassle-free transformation of your space.

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Kavya Sethi
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Architect | Co-Founder at Walnut Studio & Principal Designer