They say that minimalism is not just a design philosophy, it’s a way of life, celebrating both the unique freedom derived from simplicity and a clutter-free existence. Traditionally, however, Indian design is quite the opposite – glamorous, decadent, colourful, bold, and intricate.
So, when one thinks about the modernity of pared-back design, streamlined furniture, and muted colour schemes, it might not bring as much joy. The fundamental idea is based on the concept of ‘less is more’. While this aesthetic might seem stark, minimalism in India has taken on a warmer tone with earthy colour palettes, natural materials like wood and stone, textural layering with stringent use of colour, and copper and gold accents uplifting the designs.
With the cause of hand made in Indian and #vocalforlocal gaining momentum is becomes all the more important than ever to understand the works of some of the coolest homegrown Indian furniture labels.
Read on for our list of the best minimalist Indian decor brands that show us the beauty of this style.
Paul Matter
Based in New Delhi, Paul Matter is a lighting design studio and atelier founded by Nikhil Paul. It focuses on a style that is contemporary and minimalist. The brand collaborates with independent designers and talents to create stunning pieces that are refined, sophisticated, and timeless. The expertly crafted works of art use a material palette of copper, stone, aged brass, leather, and blown-glass.
Josmo Studio
Describing itself as a ‘Mumbai + Goa based collective that believes in transforming radical ideas into purposeful, beautiful products’, Josmo Studio creations blend traditional artisanal techniques with contemporary design. As such, their furniture, lighting, and décor accessories work well with the minimal design aesthetic but have a visual and textural appeal for the Indian audience.
Objectry
Born out of a desire to experiment with form, material, and techniques, Objectry was founded by design duo Aanchal and Sugandh. Taking basic, everyday pieces like tableware, mugs, desk accessories, or lamps, they have transformed the mundane into the interesting. Their hand-crafted creations display ‘clean lines with crisp curves and edges’.
SĀR
Founded by Nikita Bhate, SĀR is a Pune-based design studio that designs unique pieces scoring high on form, function, and flexibility. The understated products represent ‘contemporary, contextual, functional design through the perspective of designers from around the world’. The studio shows us that modern design can not only incorporate but celebrate everyday living and the cultural sensibilities of India.
Atelier DS
Atelier DS is a Jaipur based studio by Dhruv Saxena ‘practising product design within the local craft ecosystem of the city’. The collections, which feature lifestyle, home, and desk accessories, are the perfect pieces to fit into the minimal aesthetic while infusing corners with warmth and visual appeal.
Spin
Spin’s design philosophy heavily focuses on fuss-free living with products and systems that are minimal, highly functional, adaptive and distinctive. Inspired by Japanese and Nordic schools of minimalism, they create objects that are simple and stunning. Even with the minimal aesthetic in the forefront, the brand doesn’t shy away from colour, making their creations a perfect fit for the modern Indian home.
Rosebuck
Primarily using copper, brass, glass, and wood, lifestyle and home accessories brand Rosebuck designs products featuring simple, clean lines with a luxurious appeal. These beautiful, daily objects work well with a minimal aesthetic because of their streamlined designs while the material palette elevates the style, forming accent pieces for everyday settings.
Mianzi
With a vision of ‘revolutionising the way bamboo is seen and used’, Mianzi shows us how this material can add beauty and warmth to any room. Founded by Shashank Gautam, the stunning furniture creations are contemporary in design yet timeless in appeal, long-lasting, and sturdy with the added benefit of being sustainable and eco-friendly. Just in case you are looking for minimalist Indian decor brands, this one can’t be missed out on.
Nadezna Siganporia
A published writer and editor, Siganporia specialises in the design, décor, travel, culture, and food writing. Being from a military family, she constantly moved to new places which brought about a love for travel and exploration of cultures and cuisines. When not writing, she can be found devouring Wodehouse literature, sketching, or stalking her three rescue cats, camera in hand.
