The Meaning of Luxury: Interior Design

Luxury may mean different things to different people, but in interior design, it means many things – supreme comfort, highest exclusivity, minute detailing, a pedigreed quality, personal touches, multi-sensorial experience… and many more.

It is made up of the finest materials like the most exotic marbles, the softest silks and velvets, luscious carpets, sink-in sofas, eye-catching accent furniture pieces, upholstery in the exact hue of your dream or custom prints, bespoke wallpapers – all things that leave you with an elevated state of mind. We looked at the work of a few interior decorators in Gurgaon to infer what could constitute luxury.

Fine materials

With their appearance, colour, texture or sheen, materials leave a lasting impression on our mind. Marbles with luxurious veins, shimmering silks, tactile velvets, natural wood tones, sparkling crystal, gleaming metallic finishes – these are just a few materials that spell luxury. Often artisanal materials like cane, bamboo and recycled wood and natural materials can also be used smartly to make a statement.

The layered approach to design

Whether flooring or walls – going for layering always leads to richness and visual interest. Marble inlay, wooden tiles laid out in exciting patterns and then covered with luxurious carpets and rugs create a warm setting for your space. Diverse wall claddings and panelings like stones, wood, laminates, fabrics, leathers, wallpapers add layers of interest to the environment, while also creating an intimate vibe.

Highest customisation

Today, every big brand’s pedigree is ascertained based on the degree of customisation it offers. A sectional sofa that adheres to the configurations you need it in, or the dusty pink accent chair you have been dreaming of or an artwork that features the accent colour of the room – the brand should be able to offer just what you want.

Details count

The other name for luxury is details. The nailhead on your chair in a particular shade of antique gold, or rose gold faucets in the bathroom, are nuances that help you add that uniqueness that constitutes luxury. Immaculate structure and finish of furniture pieces, the way the colours and furnishings are coordinated – every little detail makes a difference. Subtle or bold, the details will have to be a perfect fit in the big picture.

Personal touch

If your space doesn’t speak for you, it is not luxury, even if you have spent a bomb on it, and it does look expensive and exquisite. Personal touches are what lend your space that special something that stands out and strikes a chord. That is something no one will be able to imitate.

Some childhood pictures of your kids, a holiday memory, travel memorabilia, a family heirloom or some rare antique pieces – these are one of a kind and priceless. You could also go for a striking accent piece, sculpture or artwork that expresses your personality.

State of the art equipment/amenities

With the advent of technologically advanced household appliances and equipment, the interior spaces are turning slicker and smarter by the day offering immeasurable luxury. Kitchen appliances and machines, bathroom wellness systems like rain showers, waterfall showers, LED ceiling showers, body jets, jacuzzis and saunas, add to the luxury quotient of your home.

The best part is all these can be operated at the touch of a button on your phone using smart home solutions. You could also control lights, gadgets and appliances from a distance, and secure your home better using such solutions. Time saved and convenience is a true luxury.

High functionality

Luxury is not all about the look and feel. It is also about whether it makes you comfortable and relaxed. A beautiful accent chair that is not ergonomic or a lavish sofa in pristine white that makes you jittery every time your child scrambles upon it does not amount to luxury. Make sure functionality goes hand in hand with style.

Get rid of or hide clutter

Considering we use so many gadgets and appliances, our homes are full of wires, cords and cables, leading to an unsightly cluttered look, which is antithetical to the very idea of luxury. Plan your wiring and cable network in such a way that it stays hidden. Charging stations inside drawers and cabinets, and televisions hidden from sight until you need them – these are some ideas to try.

Sensitivity towards the environment

All the big bucks you send are to no avail if your choices are not environment friendly. A heightened sense of style and luxury should be accompanied by a heightened sense of responsibility towards the planet. Creatively using recycled materials, reusing the water from your in-house pool to water your garden, going for a floor plan that uses natural light and good ventilation optimally, and employing resources sensibly and thoughtfully is all part of luxury.