Two years ago, when Sussanne Roshan launched her luxe interiors store in Mumbai, The Charcoal Project, we were thrilled with the outcome. Since then, the lady (known to Bollywood fans as Hrithik Roshan’s wife) has been sharing her design aesthetics with other mediums, like the online store, The Home Label, for whom she curates furniture and accessories.
This week, Roshan explores the growing popularity of Southeast Asian design in homes, adding that it goes well beyond the ubiquitous Buddha in your courtyard. ‘Less is more’ is an evergreen principle, she says, adding, “I always practice a theory when I am dressing up - while accessorising, always take the last one out. Never add all the elements of a theme. Similarly, when I’m doing up a space, I always add only two or three elements and not an everyday idea to create a theme.” With this in mind, she recommends adding a vase with bamboo leaves with a Buddha alongside, or putting fresh frangipani in a bowl to start with. “But if you’re really a fan, try placing a low day bed instead of a couch in your room and going with silk for your pillows,” she adds.
Elements from Southeast Asia can bring a balmy, tropical atmosphere to your living space, continues Roshan. To get us started, she pulls out a few items from the website:
Bali Boxes: “These handcrafted boxes are the perfect accessory for your desk or dressing table, instantly adding a sense of rustic serenity. I would use them to put in my everyday essentials and knick knacks that would otherwise clutter my space.” `1,099
Alabaster Marble Boxes: “The Alabaster marble boxes come as a pair. Elegant and practical, they add a feel of richness to any space. You could use them to store cufflinks.” Rs 899
Tortoise door stopper: “According to Feng Shui, the tortoise is a symbol of good luck. This little piece fits snugly under any door and you can also use it as an adorable accent in any needy nook of your home.” Rs 799
Infinite reflection box: “This is one of my personal favourites! As the name suggests, it reflects the light of any candle and provides the illusion of a thousand candles. This is because three sides of the box are made of glass, and one is a mirror. A simple row of boxes down a dining table will look spectacular.” Rs 1,950
Samarkand lampshade: “With black ornate leaves, it is tres chic. The beautiful off white tone will match the furniture of any room.” Rs 1,980
Details: thehomelabel.com