Traditional design evokes images of understated elegance and the grandeur of the 18th and 19th centuries. Contemporary homes use just the right blend of tradition and modernity. Gone are the days when sleek furniture and stunning artifacts were signs of good taste and decor. If your home carries a contemporary theme with steel or designer sofas and trendy display objects and artifacts, a light touch-up with a few carved wood accessories can create a beautiful fusion of modern and traditional decor.

However, a proper blending is necessary to generate an artistic flavour and to avoid mismatching.

There are wonders you can do to your home if you have opted for a traditional decor scheme. Apart from accessories, intrinsically carved wood furniture can be a good object of decor.

Using carved wood is a great way to decorate. The very presence of it brings about an instant facelift, whether it is in the form of furniture or accessories. Fabrics in a traditional room are generally neither too shiny nor too textured. Gentle curves are seen in furniture, pillows, and accessories. The overall ambience of traditional decor is homey and understated.

Pairs of objects are usually arranged in balanced proportion. Antique paintings form an essential part of traditional interiors. Large statues carved out of wood or stone do not suit small, closed spaces and they must be coordinated with extreme care, lest they upset the visual balance.

Small delicate pieces are often lost when bunched together in one area. Place them artfully in twos and threes to create a fresh look.

Antiques should not be placed near large, open windows that bring in pollution, harsh light, and dust. This will tarnish and damage the piece.

Create an interesting corner with these ancient brass bells from south India. Add to their beauty by coordinating them with smaller artifacts.

When the home is designed in a traditional style, the artifacts must suit the character of the home decor. Brass lamps, heavy silks, portraits on walls, and carved furniture make a statement.

Rekha Kavoor, Times Property, The Times of India