Designs for a serene room

Check out these simple tips for a tranquil space to pray and meditate

Advertisement

Pooja Khanna Tyagi

In most Indian homes, it is mandatory to have apujaroom or a dedicated space for prayer in the North-East corner of the house. Thepujaspace can be broadly classified into an enclosedpuja room, a standalonemandir or it could be incorporated within an alcove or a niche. Most homeowners prefer a traditional look for thepuja space but it can also be given a modern look so as to blend it with the overall decor of the home. Here are ideas to get you going.

Go for white marble

White marble is one of the most popular materials used for thepuja space or a standalonemandir as it imparts a pure and pristine look to the design of the temple. It is also the most preferred stone for ornamental marble carvings and idol making.

Introduce a backlit wall

A backlit wall can be introduced with materials like onyx, acrylic, solid surface and textured glass. These translucent materials cast a soft glow which gives a very serene, mystic and meditative effect to the temple. Additionally, backlighting brings in an element of depth and it also highlights the idols and other objects in front of it.

Hang a chandelier

An elegant crystal chandelier can bring in an element of grandeur and instantly lift up the look of thepuja room to give it a highly decorative look. For a modern look consider modern light fixtures and pendant lights.

False ceiling with recessed lighting

A false ceiling with recessed cove lighting can create mood lighting, add depth and bring in an element of warmth within the space.

Decorate withjails

Jalisor lattice screens give a traditional look and impart a decorative touch to the overall design of thepujaroom.Jaliscan be fabricated in materials like MDF, plywood or solid surface.

Flooring

The flooring design plays a key role in determining the overall look of thepuja room. White or beige coloured mirror-polished marble can give a classic look to thepuja room. For a traditional touch, consider cement tiles with traditional motifs, wooden flooring can infuse warmth into thepuja room while flooring materials like porcelain and vitrified tiles are practical and easy-to maintain.

Ambient lighting

Fix spotlights or focus lights to illuminate the idols and consider backlighting within the ceiling to bring in a soft glow within the space.

Carefully select the colour

White colour walls can be introduced in different textures or materials to impart a soothing ambiance within thepuja room. Natural tones like beige and off-white give a calm look to the space while woody tones bring in an element of warmth but may make the space look smaller. If you want to give thepuja room an opulent look, introduce textured paint or wall paper in shades of gold.

Create a clutter-free space

Make provision for adequate storage within thepuja room to create an organised space. This can be achieved with drawers, cabinets or ethnic boxes for storage ofpuja items. Note that too many idols and pictures could give the space a crowded and cluttered look.

Accessorise

Accessorise the space withdiyas, lamps, bells, rugs, artwork and sculptures to bring in an element of piety and serenity within thepuja room.