This week, You! shares fun ways to jazz up the forgotten corners of your home…
interiors
Every home has them - those quiet, overlooked corners that seem to whisper, “Do something about me.” Whether it’s an awkward space between furniture or an empty nook by the window, corners hold untapped potential. So, let’s take a journey through different corners of the house and explore how they can be transformed with charm, personality, and a desi touch…
Imagine curling up in a quiet corner with a steaming cup of chai and your favourite book. A reading nook can be a retreat within your home, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. Start with a comfortable floor cushion or a traditional charpoy with soft throws. Add a bookshelf or floating shelves to display books and decorative pieces. Dim lighting with a warm-toned lamp or fairy lights can create a cosy ambiance. For a desi touch, consider using embroidered phulkari cushions or a ralli quilt to bring in a splash of vibrant colour.
Statement wall
A blank corner wall can become an eye-catching feature with some creative design choices. Opt for a hand-painted truck art mural or ajrak-inspired stencils to bring in an artistic flair. Another option is to frame vintage film posters, miniature paintings, or calligraphy art featuring Iqbal’s poetry. If you prefer something subtle, hang woven baskets or handmade kilims to add texture and warmth.
With urban homes lacking big gardens, bringing greenery indoors is a wonderful way to freshen up a dull corner. Use terracotta pots with money plants, snake plants, or aloe vera, all of which thrive in Pakistani climates. Hanging planters with cascading devil’s ivy or shelves filled with mini cacti can turn an empty space into a lush indoor oasis. If you want to go a step further, consider placing a traditional matka filled with fresh flowers or a small water feature to create a soothing environment.
Tea corner
Chai time is like a whole ritual. Why not dedicate a corner of your home to an inviting tea station? A small wooden trolley or an antique brass tray can hold a beautiful teapot, cups, and a selection of tea leaves. Decorate with an embroidered table runner and a copper samovar for an authentic touch. A few cane stools or a low-floor setup with cushions can make it a cosy gathering space for friends and family.
With remote work and freelancing now the norm, a workspace that’s both practical and stylish is a must. Choose a compact desk with a handcrafted wooden chair, perhaps featuring sheesham wood carvings. Keep the setup simple with a mashrabiya-inspired partition for privacy and a copper desk lamp for soft lighting. A clay pot as a pen holder and a woven basket for storage can add an earthy, desi charm while keeping things organised.
If you have a collection of souvenirs, handicrafts, or antiques, a dedicated display corner can highlight these treasures. A glass cabinet or open shelves can hold blue pottery, brass utensils, lacquered woodwork, and Peshawari chappals as décor pieces. Mixing different textures - wood, brass, and ceramic - creates depth and tells a story about heritage and craftsmanship. If you have family heirlooms, such as your grandmother’s hand-embroidered dupatta or an old gramophone, incorporate them into the display for sentimental value.
A baithak
A baithak or traditional sitting area is a staple in many desi homes, especially in Sindh and Punjab. Transform an unused corner into a majlis-inspired baithak with low seating, jute rugs, and plenty of embroidered cushions. Hang a mirror with a wooden jharokha frame to make the space feel more open. Use a floor lamp with an intricate brass base to add a soft glow, creating the perfect setting for intimate conversations.
For those who prefer a serene space for prayer and meditation, a thoughtfully arranged prayer corner can offer peace and tranquillity. Use a small Persian or Sindhi prayer rug, a decorative wooden Quran stand, and a scented candle or oud burner for a calming atmosphere. Soft curtains or a partition can provide privacy, and a small shelf for Islamic books can make the space even more meaningful.
Arts and craft corner
If you enjoy painting, pottery, or embroidery, an art corner can be a delightful creative escape. Place a wooden easel, a work table with hand-painted motifs, and a storage rack for supplies. Add a mirror with a truck art frame or handmade clay figurines for inspiration. This space can be a retreat for moments of self-expression and creativity.
With so many cultural and religious festivities throughout the year, having a dedicated decor corner can make celebrations extra special. Whether it’s Eid, a birthday party, or wedding season, this corner can be decorated with fairy lights, floral arrangements, or traditional marigold garlands. A chalkboard can display festive messages or quotes, adding a playful touch and the ideal spot for a photoshoot.
