Things for Traditional Indian Decorations

Color Palette

• Jewel tones are key to an Indian color palette, including bright oranges, fuchsias and gold. These colors are often mixed to create energetic combinations, visual interest and texture. Consider tangerine orange and fuchsia, or for a cooler touch, mix emerald and ruby. This is one design style where color selection is up to the imagination of the designer, where colors don't have to match in order to work.

Patterns

• Pattern, like color, is an essential part of Indian home design. Paisley and floral prints are particularly common in traditional style. Flooring, which is usually kept simple with dark-toned wood or terracotta-colored tiles, are usually covered with rugs or mats to add comfort. Materials or upholstery will most often incorporate gold thread, shells, beading or fringe either in colors that match the material, or one that contrasts it.

Furnishing

• Traditional Indian style homes will often include luxurious furnishings, including dark hard woods with intricate designs, upholstered panels and tiled insets. Large, luxurious pieces are ideal. Coffee tables, buffets and other pieces are accented with burnished brass hardware, gold trim and other luxurious finishes. Couches and chairs are finished off with pillows, while shelves are filled with family photos in ornate frames, walls with hand painted masks and artwork. Good luck symbols, including elephants and bells, are prevalent. A ringing bell is thought to purify the environment, while stroking an elephant statue -- commonly placed in doorways or on shelves -- is thought to bring luck and is believed to add long life and happiness to a family.

Architecture

• Indian décor frequently includes grand architectural features; pillars, canopies, arches and ornate wood work are all common. These pieces, though authentic, are not usually very budget friendly. A canopy over the master bed is a fairly simple addition, and proper fabric selection will make create a classic Indian look. Another inexpensive option is to install a pre-made handrail for the stairs and stain it a desired color. These products are generally made from man-made materials, are fairly cost effective, and are available from most home improvement stores. Wall sconces, pedestals and small statues with a bronze or gold finish are easy ways to add Indian flair on a budget.