A home does not need a complete makeover to feel different. Sometimes, a change in colour, an interesting print or a thoughtfully chosen object can alter the way we experience a familiar space. A good design is not necessarily about spending more, but about understanding how different elements come together. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Krsnaa Mehta, executive director at India Circus by Krsnaa Mehta, shared decor upgrades you can consider.
Cushion covers, throws and table runners offer an easy way to introduce colour, pattern and texture. You could bring together a few contrasting cushions or add a printed throw to a neutral sofa. The idea is not to match everything, but to create a visual connection between the elements. Even a simple change in textiles can make a familiar room feel more expressive. Artwork , framed prints and decorative wall plates can add character without requiring a major investment. These influences can be interpreted in contemporary ways through artwork and prints, bringing a sense of colour and storytelling into a home. Rather than filling every wall, choose one area to highlight. A well-placed piece can become a natural focal point. The dining table is an opportunity to bring design into everyday life. You do not need a complete dinner set or an elaborate tablescape to make it feel special. Printed plates, colourful bowls, distinctive platters and interesting serve ware can add personality to even a simple meal. Pair patterned pieces with understated tableware or introduce a table runner to create a visual anchor. An ottoman, pouffe or compact side table can be both practical and decorative. These pieces can introduce a contrasting colour, an interesting form or a new texture while serving a useful purpose. Lamps, candle holders, decorative bowls and small objects can make a room feel more considered. Krsnaa recommends adding a side table with a lamp and a couple of objects, or bringing together a few pieces inspired by nature, architecture or Indian visual culture. The key is to curate rather than accumulate. Leave some space around the objects, vary their heights and let individual pieces stand out. A well-composed corner can often have more impact than a room filled with accessories.
Also read | From clutter-free spaces to layered lighting: 4 hotel-inspired decor ideas for a peaceful home If you want to refresh the living room without investing in new furniture, start with the textiles. Because it helps make better use of the available space, in smaller homes, multifunctional furniture is particularly valuable.
“I particularly enjoy seeing botanical prints, stylised florals and geometric patterns work alongside solid colours,” said Krsnaa. Walls do not always need a fresh coat of paint to make an impact, according to Krsnaa. “I find inspiration in the visual richness of India, its architecture, landscapes, flora, fauna and decorative traditions,” highlighted Mehta. “I believe dining should feel inviting rather than formal, and small details can make everyday rituals more enjoyable without adding significantly to the cost,” suggested Krsnaa. “I would always look for pieces that offer something beyond their immediate function, whether that is an interesting silhouette, a distinctive finish or the ability to work in different corners of the home,” said Krsnaa.
