Transform Your Home For Onam: Traditional And Modern Decor Tips

1. Create A Traditional Pookalam: In essence, the Pookalam or the flower carpet is the identifying feature of Onam decorations. Bunch some very colorful flowers such as marigolds, jasmines and roses and arrange them in different patterns at the entrance of your homes to create a vibrant feel for the guests. (Image Source: Pinterest/prokerala)

2. Adorn With Banana Leaves: These banana leaves when new can be used to enhance the appearance of a home especially in the dining area by using them as table runners. The leaves apart from having an aesthetic appeal bring the natural feel to your interior decor and are associated with good fortune. (Image Source: Pinterest/292rce8uceljo05pqvmre88zn8308g)

3. Illuminate With Oil Lamps: Locate the typical brass oil lamp called Nilavilakku in several areas of the house to increase the homely nature and warmth. The lamps are soft and give this festivity a dreamy look to it. (Image Source: Pinterest/presana81)

4. Use Ethnic Cushion Covers And Drapes: Use ethnic drapes that include; cushion covers, curtains, and table cloths made from Kasavu or handloom cotton from Kerala. As an enhancement of the mood of the Onam from the festive texture of the sari, try using shades of white gold and green. (Image Source: Pinterest/poiemaweaves)

5. Display Traditional Artifacts: To bring out the true essence of home décor with traditional touch-ups you can have Uruli, brass vessels, Wooden elephants and Kathakali masks. These pieces give a much needed Kerala touch to your home decorations. (Image Source: Pinterest/wedmegood)

6. Set Up A Traditional Swing: If there is any green space, then it is highly recommended to install a wooden or a rope swing with flowers on it. It represents the history of the Onam festivals and can ideally be used as a fun corner for the family members to entertain during the celebration. (Image Source: Pinterest/amalhamzawi)

7. Decorate With Fresh Flowers: Ensure your house is decorated with flowers to give it a fresh taste. These flowers should be used to decor the living spaces, windows, and doors with jasmine, lotus and marigolds. Fresh flowers symbolise purity and hence are perfect for ushering in the festive season. (Image Source: Pinterest/wedmegood)

8. Craft A Festive Entrance: Attracting the main door, one can use colorful Rangolis, toran and bells hung on the walls also. This makes it add beauty to the building and at the same time welcomes the guest in a noble way. (Image Source: Pinterest/wedmegood)

9. Incorporate Natural Elements: Some items to use include jute mats that are found in most parts of India, bamboo baskets and coconut shells. These items add that simple, traditional elegance, which also fits in with the overall Onam mood. (Image Source: Pinterest/mitchikoandhatchin)

10. Celebrate With Onam-Themed Wall Art: Liven your walls with paintings or prints which are Kerala thematic, they include dancers in traditional dances like Kathakali, elephants or temple art works. These pieces give the festive decoration much-needed extra layers. (Image Source: Pinterest/architectsdiary)

Inputs By: Raghunandan Saraf, Founder, CEO, Saraf Furniture (Image Source: Pinterest/wordpressdotcom)