Assam, located in the northeast region of India, is a state with a rich cultural heritage. The Assamese style of decor is unique and reflects the state's history, traditions, and natural surroundings. If you're interested in incorporating Assamese style into your home decor, here's a guide to get you started.
Here is a guide to decorating in an Assamese style:
Use natural materials
Assamese homes traditionally use natural materials such as bamboo, cane, wood, and mud to construct walls, floors, and roofs. You can incorporate these elements into your home decor by using bamboo or cane furniture, wooden flooring, and mud walls. These materials add warmth and texture to your space, creating a cozy and inviting ambiance.
Use vibrant colors
Assamese art and craft are known for their vibrant colors, especially red, green, and yellow. You can incorporate these colors into your home decor by using brightly colored fabrics, such as silk or cotton, for curtains, cushions, and tablecloths. You can also use these colors in your wall paint or wallpaper to create a bold statement.
Incorporate indigenous motifs
Assam has a rich cultural heritage, and its traditional motifs are inspired by nature, mythology, and folklore. You can incorporate these motifs into your home decor by using Assamese fabrics with intricate designs, such as mekhela chadors, gamusas, and phulam gamusas. You can also use Assamese pottery, such as bharals, xorais, and hukkas, as decorative pieces.
Use traditional lighting
Assamese homes traditionally use clay lamps, called diyas, for lighting. You can incorporate this element into your home decor by using diyas or similar clay lamps as decorative pieces. You can also use bamboo or cane lampshades to create a warm and cozy ambiance.
Incorporate Assamese art
Assam has a rich tradition of art, including weaving, embroidery, pottery, and painting. You can incorporate Assamese art into your home decor by using Assamese paintings, such as the traditional xorai or jaapi designs, as wall hangings. You can also use Assamese embroidery, such as the traditional kantha stitch, on cushion covers or bedspreads.
Use bamboo and cane
Bamboo and cane are widely used in Assamese homes. They're sustainable, eco-friendly, and add a rustic charm to the decor. You can use bamboo and cane furniture, wall hangings, baskets, and even lampshades. These materials are also a great way to incorporate texture into your decor.
Natural colors
The Assamese style is all about earthy, natural colors. Use shades of green, brown, beige, and white to create a calming and soothing atmosphere. You can use natural materials like wood and jute to complement the color palette.
Handloom textiles
Handloom textiles are a staple of Assamese decor. The state is known for its silk production, and you can incorporate silk fabrics into your decor in the form of curtains, cushion covers, and table runners. Handwoven textiles in traditional Assamese motifs like the Gamusa or Jaapi are also great additions.
Brass and copper
Brass and copper utensils, plates, and bowls are commonly used in Assamese homes. They add a touch of elegance and tradition to the decor. You can display them on shelves or use them as part of your table setting.
Assamese motifs
Assamese motifs like the Gamusa, Jaapi, and Bihu dance are popular and can be incorporated into your decor. These motifs can be found on handloom textiles, wall hangings, and even furniture. They add a touch of tradition and cultural significance to your home.
Assamese art
Assam is known for its unique art forms like the traditional paintings called pattachitra and the mask-making craft called Mukha. You can use these art forms as wall hangings or even incorporate them into your furniture. These art forms are a great way to add a pop of color and a touch of tradition to your home decor.
In conclusion, decorating in an Assamese style involves using natural materials, vibrant colors, indigenous motifs, traditional lighting, and Assamese art. By incorporating these elements into your home decor, you can create a warm and inviting space that reflects the rich cultural heritage of Assam.