A ROADMAP TO SUSTAINABILITY

The Indian cement industry stands at a crossroads. As the second-largest producer of cement in the world, it plays a crucial role in infrastructure and urban development. However, this growth comes at a significant environmental cost. Cement production is one of the most carbon-intensive industries, contributing approximately 5.63% of India’s total greenhouse gas emissions. With the government’s increasing focus on sustainability and net-zero targets, the challenge is clear: how can India continue to meet its rising infrastructure demands while reducing its carbon footprint? Cement manufacturing is an energy-intensive process, with emissions originating from two primary sources. More than half of the sector’s emissions stem from the chemical transformation of limestone into lime, a process that releases vast amounts of CO2. The rest comes from the burning of fossil fuels such as coal and petcoke, which provide the necessary heat for cement kilns. In addition, electricity consumption from power grids and captive plants adds to the industry’s carbon burden. Despite these challenges, opportunities for reducing emissions are substantial. One of the most effective strategies is transitioning to blended cement, which replaces a portion of limestone with alternative materials.

The Indian cement industry stands at a crossroads. As the second-largest producer of cement in the world, it plays a crucial role in infrastructure and urban development. However, this growth comes at a significant environmental cost. Cement production is one of the most carbon-intensive industries, contributing approximately 5.63% of India’s total greenhouse gas emissions. With the government’s increasing focus on sustainability and net-zero targets, the challenge is clear: how can India continue to meet its rising infrastructure demands while reducing its carbon footprint? Cement manufacturing is an energy-intensive process, with emissions originating from two primary sources. More than half of the sector’s emissions stem from the chemical transformation of limestone into lime, a process that releases vast amounts of CO₂. The rest comes from the burning of fossil fuels such as coal and petcoke, which provide the necessary heat for cement kilns. Additionally, electricity consumption from power grids and captive plants adds to the industry’s carbon burden.

Despite these challenges, opportunities for reducing emissions are substantial. One of the most effective strategies is transitioning to blended cement, which replaces a portion of limestone with alternative materials such as fly ash and slag. Currently, Portland Pozzolana Cement (PPC) accounts for about 65% of India’s cement production, with the rest being Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC), Portland Slag Cement (PSC), and Composite Cement (CC). Increasing the share of blended cement could significantly lower emissions. Experts argue that limiting OPC production to just 10% while promoting blended cement could cut emissions by as much as 43 million tons by 2030.

The use of alternative raw materials offers another promising avenue. Fly ash, a byproduct of coal-fired power plants, and blast furnace slag from steel plants can be integrated into cement production without compromising quality. Studies suggest that increasing the permissible limit of fly ash in PPC from 35% to 45% could lead to an additional reduction of 59 million tons of CO₂ emissions. Beyond traditional additives, newer materials such as calcined clay are emerging as viable replacements for limestone, giving rise to low-carbon cements like LC3, which require less energy-intensive processing.

Energy efficiency and alternative fuels also hold immense potential in the decarbonization journey. Many Indian cement plants have already begun replacing coal with waste-derived fuels such as refuse-derived fuel (RDF) and biomass. Plants operated by industry leaders like ACC and Dalmia Cement have achieved thermal substitution rates (TSR) as high as 15–30%, showcasing the feasibility of such alternatives. If the entire industry could push this substitution rate to 50%, emissions could be reduced by a staggering 84 million tons. Additionally, the adoption of waste heat recovery systems, kiln electrification, and renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power could further reduce the sector’s dependence on fossil fuels.

Another frontier in cement industry decarbonization is Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS). This technology, while still in its early stages, has the potential to capture up to 90% of emissions from cement production. The Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA) has identified CCUS as one of the most critical technologies for achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Although high implementation costs remain a barrier, several leading cement manufacturers are investing in pilot projects to explore its viability.

While technological advancements are essential, regulatory support will be equally crucial in steering the industry towards sustainability. Clear policy directives can create a framework for widespread adoption of low-carbon practices. Setting mandatory targets for blended cement production, introducing fiscal incentives for green cement, and implementing carbon pricing mechanisms could provide the necessary push. Additionally, standardized regulations for RDF could help increase its acceptance as an alternative fuel, ensuring its quality and safety in cement kilns.

Projections for 2030 suggest that with the right interventions, India’s cement industry can significantly curb its emissions despite an expected increase in production. Current estimates indicate that cement output will nearly double to 660 million tons by the end of the decade. However, by promoting blended cement, maximizing alternative raw material usage, and pushing TSR rates to 50%, the sector could limit emissions growth to just 1.1 times its 2019 levels instead of a projected doubling under a business-as-usual scenario.

The road to decarbonization is not without obstacles. Cost implications, technological readiness, and industry inertia remain significant challenges. However, the cement sector must recognize that sustainability is not just an environmental imperative—it is also an economic opportunity. Embracing greener manufacturing practices can enhance energy efficiency, lower operational costs, and future-proof businesses against stringent environmental regulations.

The transition to a low-carbon cement industry is no longer an option but a necessity. As India advances towards becoming a global leader in sustainable infrastructure, the cement sector must play its part in shaping a cleaner and more resilient future. By adopting innovative technologies, embracing alternative materials, and committing to policy-driven action, the industry can ensure that its growth does not come at the cost of environmental degradation. The time to act is now, and the choices made today will define the trajectory of India’s cement industry for decades to come.

B Santhanam to Retire After 45 Year Legacy at Saint-Gobain

B. Santhanam, a towering figure in India’s corporate landscape, is set to retire after an illustrious 45-year career with Saint-Gobain, the French multinational renowned for its dominance in the glass and building materials industry. Santhanam, who has been instrumental in steering the company’s growth in India and the Asia Pacific, will step down from his roles as CEO of the Asia Pacific & India Region and Chairman of Saint-Gobain India on May 5. His retirement marks the end of a significant chapter for both the company and India’s industrial sector.

Santhanam’s journey with Saint-Gobain began in 1980 when he joined as a management trainee at Grindwell Norton, part of the Saint-Gobain Group. A graduate of IIT Madras and IIM Ahmedabad, he played a crucial role in shaping Saint-Gobain’s strategic entry into India. In 1996, he was instrumental in the company’s first major foray into the flat glass sector in India. Under his leadership, Saint-Gobain established a formidable presence, making significant investments — over ₹8,000 crore in the flat glass business and more than ₹12,000 crore in diversified sectors such as gypsum, construction chemicals, and abrasives.

During his tenure, Santhanam led the company’s expansion across multiple regions in India, with operations spanning 33 locations in key states such as Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Gujarat. His leadership as Managing Director of Saint-Gobain India and Grindwell Norton, and later as CEO of Saint-Gobain Asia Pacific & India, cemented his legacy as a transformative leader who guided the company through an era of rapid growth and diversification.

Lighting Control Market Set to Reach USD 106.73 Billion by 2032

The global lighting control system market is poised for exponential growth, with its size expected to surge from USD 32.11 billion in 2023 to an impressive USD 106.73 billion by 2032. This remarkable expansion, marked by a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.28% from 2024 to 2032, reflects a transformative shift in how cities, homes, and businesses approach energy management and sustainability.

The lighting control system market is fundamentally reshaping urban landscapes by integrating wireless connectivity, artificial intelligence (AI)-driven automation, and IoT-enabled controls. These innovations not only enhance energy efficiency but also provide flexible, scalable solutions across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. By enabling precise lighting control, these systems significantly reduce energy wastage, supporting global efforts toward carbon reduction and the realization of net-zero carbon cities.

A key driver of this market expansion is the growing adoption of smart city initiatives, particularly in rapidly urbanizing countries like India. Governments are increasingly prioritizing sustainable development solutions aligned with international environmental goals, accelerating the integration of smart lighting technologies into urban infrastructure. As a result, lighting control systems are emerging as a cornerstone of sustainable urban development.

UltraTech Forays into Wires and Cables

UltraTech Cement, a leader in the Indian cement industry, has recently taken a significant step by entering the wires and cables sector. The company has committed ₹1,800 crore to build a new wires and cables plant in Bharuch, Gujarat, expected to be operational by December 2026.

UltraTech’s entrance the wires and cables market highlights into a broader trend of diversification among top Indian companies, with many seeking to tap into the growing
demand for smart, energy-efficient, and sustainable technologies. While the foray into this new market could bring growth and new revenue streams, the market will be watching closely to see how UltraTech manages this transition and whether it can maintain its leadership position in the highly competitive cement industry.

Hafele Inaugurates Advanced Licht Centre in Indore

Häfele, a global leader in innovative interior solutions, has expanded its footprint in India with the launch of its second Licht Experience Centre in Indore. Located at Uniko Lights in PU4, behind C21 Mall, this new centre marks a significant milestone in Häfele’s commitment to advancing the interior design and lighting industry across the country. Following the success of its Chandigarh launch, the Indore centre showcases Häfele’s state-of-the-art range of lighting products, blending cutting-edge technology with sophisticated design.

The centre was officially inaugurated by Mr. Manish Mahajan, Sales Director – Häfele South Asia, and renowned designer Mr. Manish Kumat, Principal Designer at Manish Kumat Design Cell. Appropriately named “Licht,” meaning “light” in German, the centre offers an immersive experience for architects, interior designers, lighting consultants, electrical contractors, and end consumers, enabling them to explore advanced lighting solutions for residential, commercial, and institutional spaces.

The Licht Experience Centre features a diverse array of lighting options, ranging from architectural lighting to furniture lighting, each meticulously crafted to enhance both aesthetics and functionality. A highlight of the centre is Häfele’s revolutionary Loox Range—a furniture lighting solution celebrated for its simplicity, flexibility, and reliability. Designed to integrate seamlessly into various home applications, the Loox Range provides task, decorative, mood, and functional lighting solutions. Further reinforcing its commitment to quality, Häfele offers an industry-first 10-year guarantee on its Furniture Lighting Solutions in India, reflecting the company’s confidence in the durability and long-term performance of its products.

Godrej Interio Targets Office Furniture Growth in Kolkata

Godrej Interio, the furniture arm of Godrej Enterprises, is intensifying its focus on the office furniture segment as part of its strategy to expand its footprint in Kolkata. Having made significant inroads into the B2B (business-to-business) and institutional furniture sector, the company has recorded a revenue of ₹100 crore from this segment over the past 10 months. With Kolkata’s institutional furniture market estimated at around ₹500 crore, Godrej Interio plans to capitalise on this growing opportunity by targeting the office furniture segment alongside its existing healthcare and educational furniture offerings.

In a dynamic shift aligned with evolving market needs, Godrej Interio aims to boost its market share in Kolkata’s institutional furniture sector from 15% to 25% within the next three years. This strategic push is driven by a noticeable surge in demand, particularly in the office furniture segment, spurred by the rise of hybrid work models. As employees increasingly divide their time between home and office, the demand for ergonomic and flexible office furniture solutions has grown substantially, presenting a significant business opportunity.

Godrej Interio’s product portfolio has evolved to meet these emerging needs, with increased focus on ergonomic chairs, modular office desks, and adjustable hospital beds. These solutions cater not only to corporate offices but also to educational institutions and healthcare facilities that require robust, ergonomic furniture. Kolkata, with its rapidly expanding commercial real estate sector, is especially poised for growth. The city is expected to add nearly 5 million square feet of office space over the next two years, further driving the demand for modern workplace solutions.

Morzze Launches Revolutionary MFD 1101 Waste Disposer

Morzze, a leading brand in kitchenware, has reinforced its commitment to innovation and sustainability with the launch of the MFD 1101 Food Waste Disposer. This new addition to the brand’s portfolio underscores Morzze’s focus on redefining kitchen solutions through efficiency, sustainability, and convenience.

The MFD 1101 Food Waste Disposer, unveiled as part of Morzze’s forward-thinking strategy, aims to revolutionize household food waste management. Equipped with cutting-edge features, the disposer boasts a Brushless DC (BLDC) motor that ensures high power efficiency while delivering robust performance. Its Auto Reverse Technology helps prevent jamming, enhancing the product’s reliability, while a sound insulation design ensures quieter operation — a vital feature for busy modern kitchens.

Further setting the MFD 1101 apart are its strong safety measures, including an overload protector to safeguard the motor and an automatic stop function that activates after five minutes of continuous operation, promoting energy conservation. The device’s eight-stage grinding system breaks down food waste into ultra-fine 1.5mm particles, facilitating easy disposal and minimizing environmental impact.

Philips Launches Largest Smart Light Hub in Bhubaneswar

Signify, the global leader in lighting solutions, has recently inaugurated its 12th Philips Smart Light Hub in Odisha, marking a significant expansion in its reach across India. This new 1600-square-foot store, located in the heart of Odisha, is designed to cater to diverse customer lighting needs, offering over 450 SKUs across a broad spectrum of decorative and functional lighting solutions.

The Philips Smart Light Hub is a testament to Signify’s commitment to innovation and its focus on sustainability. The store’s design follows the premium SLH (Smart Light Hub) format, immersing visitors in the latest advancements in smart lighting technologies. This launch brings the total number of Philips Smart Light Hubs across India to 304, highlighting the company’s expanding footprint in the Indian market.

Customers visiting the new hub can explore various lighting options, from elegant chandeliers, wall lights, and track lights to practical, energy-efficient solutions like modular COBs, downlighters, panels, and spots. Additionally, the store features cutting-edge connected lighting products, powered by Signify’s WiZ Smart technology platform, allowing users to integrate smart lighting into their homes seamlessly.

This strategic opening further strengthens Signify’s position as a leader in sustainable and energy-efficient lighting solutions, providing Indian consumers access to the latest smart, eco-friendly technologies. As urban centres in India continue to grow, lighting solutions like these are becoming increasingly vital in creating smarter, more sustainable living spaces, reducing energy consumption, and enhancing everyday convenience.

With the growing demand for smart homes and connected devices, Signify’s continuous investment in expanding its retail network underscores its commitment to shaping the future of lighting in India. The Philips Smart Light Hub is located at Zara Lounge, 554 Shaheed Nagar, Bhubaneswar. This momentous occasion promises to showcase the innovations in smart lighting technology and reinforce Signify’s position as a pioneer in the industry.

Commenting on the inauguration, Sumit Joshi, CEO & MD of Signify Greater India, said, “The inauguration of our largest SLH store in Odisha, marks a significant milestone for us as Bhubaneshwar is emerging as one of the most promising markets for us owing to a growing consumer base that has an evolved aesthetic taste in home decor.”

Asian Granito Unveils 3500 Sq Ft Showroom in Hyderabad

Asian Granito India Limited (AGL), a leader in the ceramic industry, has launched an extravagant 3,500 sq ft showroom in Hyderabad, marking a pivotal step in the company’s strategic expansion plan. This cutting-edge display centre is set to become a landmark for architects, homebuilders, interior designers, and design enthusiasts, offering a wide array of luxury tiles and slabs for indoor and outdoor spaces.

The newly inaugurated showroom, located at 202 & 302 Kurve Elite, Kamalapuri Colony, Hyderabad, brings together an extensive collection of AGL’s premium products, including exclusive ranges like Alvaro, StonEra, TeRock, Presto, MarbleX, Grestek, Grandura, and Fresco, to name just a few. This well-designed space is a testament to AGL’s commitment to innovation, quality, and modern aesthetics, positioning the company as a pioneer in transforming the tile shopping experience in India.

Kamlesh Patel, Chairman and Managing Director of Asian Granito India Ltd, expressed that the company’s reputation for innovation and adaptability has been instrumental in establishing a strong global identity. He further stated that the new showroom redefines the tile-shopping experience, offering immersive visuals, trendsetting designs, and an elevated customer journey. “Our showroom not only serves as a one-stop destination for architects, designers, and trade partners but also showcases a wide range of premium tiles, GVT collections, slabs, engineered marble, quartz, sanitaryware, and faucets—all under one roof,” Patel remarked.

The showroom is a bold move by AGL to cater to the growing demand for luxury and high-quality products in the evolving construction and design market. With a focus on aesthetics, durability, and innovation, AGL’s tiles and slabs are designed to add an opulent touch to residential and commercial spaces. Offering products like Glazed Vitrified Tiles, Grand Slabs, Engineered Marble, Quartz, and an extensive array of Sanitaryware & Bathware, AGL’s new space in Hyderabad promises to be the go-to destination for those seeking world-class solutions.

Asian Granito has been steadily carving a niche in India’s ceramic industry, primarily driven by its investment in production, cutting-edge designs, and expansion into global markets. The company has solidified its position as a rising global brand with a strategic focus on quality and innovation.

As part of its broader growth strategy, AGL aims to continue expanding its reach, targeting key cities like Hyderabad to provide unparalleled design solutions and promote sustainable, eco-friendly building practices. The Hyderabad showroom symbolises the company’s unwavering dedication to setting new standards while meeting the evolving needs of modern consumers and designers.

Shree Cement Launches Rs 83.5 Billion Projects in KA

Shree Cement Limited has signed an ambitious Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Karnataka, committing an investment of Rs 8,350 crore over the next five years. This deal marks a transformative moment for the state’s economy and Shree Cement’s expansion strategy, as it aims to set up several state-of-the-art cement manufacturing facilities across key regions.

The MoU outlines plans to establish an Integrated Cement Plant in Kalaburagi. This plant will feature a clinker capacity of 3.5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) and a cement capacity of 3 MTPA. With an initial investment of Rs 2,500 crore, this plant will create around 300 direct employment opportunities. Starting in 2025, this facility is poised to strengthen the state’s industrial fabric while contributing to regional economic development.

Further enhancing its commitment to Karnataka, Shree Cement plans to set up a Clinker Grinding Unit in the Bengaluru Rural district with a projected investment of Rs 850 crore. This unit, with a capacity of 3 MTPA, will generate an additional 250 direct jobs and is expected to begin operations by 2028.

In an even more ambitious move, Shree Cement has unveiled plans for a second integrated plant in Kalaburagi, which will have a clinker capacity of 3.5 MTPA and a cement capacity of 6 MTPA, built in two phases. With a proposed investment of Rs 5,000 crore, this mega-project will create an estimated 750 direct jobs upon completion by 2030.

31st CREDAI MCHI Property Expo Sets New Benchmarks in Inclusivity and Housing Access

Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai — The 31st edition of the CREDAI-MCHI Property Expo, held from January 17 to 19, 2025, emerged as a landmark event in India’s real estate calendar. With over 24,700 serious homebuyers attending and more than 100 developers showcasing a diverse range of residential offerings, the event underscored the vitality of Mumbai’s housing market while pushing the boundaries of inclusivity and affordability.

Organised by the apex body for real estate developers in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, the expo featured marquee names such as Adani Realty, Piramal Realty, Raghav Group, and others. From affordable housing priced at ₹14 lakh to luxury residences exceeding ₹10 crore, the exhibition covered the full spectrum of urban housing needs.

Affordability with Purpose
In line with CREDAI-MCHI’s vision for “Housing for All,” the expo introduced a host of buyer-friendly incentives:
• Zero Stamp Duty and Registration Charges, easing the financial load on prospective homebuyers.
• Flexible payment plans and festival linked offers to boost affordability.
• A ₹2 lakh additional discount for women homebuyers, promoting financial independence and home ownership among women.

These initiatives reflect a shift in how developers and the broader real estate ecosystem are responding to changing consumer behaviour and affordability constraints.

A Landmark for LGBTQ+ Representation in Housing
For the first time, the CREDAI-MCHI expo spotlighted LGBTQ+ homeownership, addressing one of the most marginalised segments in Indian housing. Sessions such as “Beyond the Binary: Breaking Barriers in Real Estate” explored systemic bias, legal gaps in co-ownership, and the lack of inclusive housing policy.

Panel discussions featured legal experts, architects, and community advocates examining pathways to greater equity through policy reform and builder sensitisation. The inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community in mainstream housing discourse marked a critical step forward in redefining the idea of inclusive urban development.

Developer-Led Innovation
The event saw developers introducing unique propositions to capture buyer attention:
• Raghav Builders offered fully furnished homes at competitive rates.
• Solidago Group launched rent-to-own schemes tailored for young professionals and nuclear families.

These offerings signalled a market that is not only reviving post pandemic but also evolving to meet emerging lifestyle needs and income dynamics.

A Platform for Purpose
Beyond business, the CREDAI-MCHI Women’s Wing hosted a CSR Pavilion showcasing handcrafted products by cancer survivors and specially abled individuals, creating awareness and enabling livelihoods. It was a powerful reminder that housing is not merely about square footage, but about building inclusive communities.

The Verdict
As Mumbai’s real estate market looks to balance affordability, sustainability, and social equity, the 31st CREDAI-MCHI Property Expo offered more than just property listings—it presented a blueprint for the future of Indian housing. With its combination of scale, innovation, and social responsibility, the expo underscored CREDAI-MCHI’s growing role as not just a real estate body, but a progressive force shaping urban India.

Stamp Duty and Ready Reckoner Rates Under Review After Industry Bodies Flag Concerns to IGR

Mumbai — A joint delegation of CREDAI-MCHI and NAREDCO called on Shri R. Binwade, Inspector General of Registration (IGR), Government of Maharashtra, to discuss critical reforms needed in Maharashtra’s registration and valuation framework.

Key concerns raised included the high stamp duty burden on redevelopment projects, especially those involving slum rehabilitation, MHADA land, and CIDCO plots, where multiple levies make such projects financially unviable. The developers also highlighted the disproportionate rise in PWD construction rates, which, when combined with RR rates, pushes housing costs beyond affordability thresholds.

A particularly contentious issue was the Ready Reckoner (RR) rates, which industry representatives argued were not aligned with prevailing market prices. This mismatch, they said, creates disincentives for real estate investment and disproportionately affects affordable housing supply.

Shri Binwade acknowledged the sector’s concerns and confirmed that the department would review all suggestions by the end of February. The announcement comes as a relief for developers, who hope to see policy rationalisation in the upcoming fiscal cycle.

GST on Redevelopment and Affordable Housing Reforms Take Centre Stage in Dialogue with DCM

Mumbai — In a high-level policy interaction, CREDAI-MCHI engaged with Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister, Shri Ajit Pawar, to address some of the most pressing issues impacting the Mumbai Metropolitan Region’s real estate sector.

The dialogue focused on the imposition of a Goods and Services Tax (GST) on redevelopment and rehabilitation housing, a long-standing concern for developers navigating financially sensitive urban projects. Representatives from CREDAI-MCHI explained that the existing tax burden risks undermining the economic feasibility of crucial redevelopment work in densely populated zones. The discussion also touched upon the redefinition of affordable housing in Mumbai. The delegation presented

As we step further into 2025, the world of interiors continues to evolve, shaped by the enduring influence of the post-pandemic lifestyle. Our homes have become more than just shelters—they are sanctuaries, offices, wellness hubs, and creative corners. This transformation has sparked a wave of design trends rooted in comfort, sustainability, personal expression, and mindful living. Here’s a look at the top interior trends redefining spaces in 2025, inspired by a world that has learned to live differently—and design smarter.

KEEP IT SIMPLE

One lifestyle philosophy that has taken root since before the pandemic and still dominates is minimalism. People are becoming increasingly conscious of their consumption patterns and are very mindful of what they own and how much they own and waste. This is driving the push for upcycled furniture and high-quality, natural materials and fabrics that are low maintenance and long-lasting. There is also this pandemic-induced Marie Kondo-style tendency, which is to declutter spaces. As a result, it affects both mental and physical well-being positively. This is perhaps why a simplicity-focused interior design trend like Japandi—which fuses Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian functionality—is catching on across the globe. Of course, the execution of these minimalist interior designs will depend on clients’ preferences, but the overarching idea is to stick to bare essentials.

A monochromatic colour palette, functional but comfortable furniture, rich textiles, etc., are key elements. Also, every detail of the design should be easy to clean and maintain since most people now consider cleaning as a ‘Do-It-Yourself’ activity. Functionality over ornamentation is the basis of this idea. There’s nothing more ‘outdoors’ than fresh, bright sunlight and crisp natural air—it helps indoor plants grow well too, which can be added generously around the interior space. For the kitchen, a functional design hack is introducing a dedicated spot for a herb garden. Natural materials like stone and wood are considered outdoors; why not bring them indoors to recreate the rustic, outdoorsy vibe? They are hard-wearing materials that age well and are surprisingly low-maintenance. Besides, you can also add design elements like shades of green or leaf-inspired patterns on walls. You could go a step further and add a green wall, where plants grow on a vertical surface. They are super fun and unbelievably customizable; clients can change the look and feel of the interiors just by adding new foliage or seasonal flowering plants!

BRING THE OUTDOORS INSIDE

Though people love indoor life, they are increasingly desirous of being with nature. This explains why caring for houseplants became an unexpected trend during the initial months of the pandemic! Recreating a tropical forest indoors is probably not feasible (you could if you tried!), but you can take cues from mother nature for your interior design inspiration. And this is not limited to throwing in a bunch of succulents at strategic locations around the house. While this might be a task geared more towards architects, expanding windowsand introducing skylights wherever possible is a great way to fill interior spaces with natural light and ventilation. After all, nothing feels

A crucial part of life in the pandemic era is work from home. Organizations worldwide shifted to a remote-first model of working, and employees love the freedom and flexibility this format offers. As a result, the requirement for a fully functional yet compact workspace has skyrocketed. People are becoming increasingly aware of ergonomics and workspace design principles and how these seemingly vain concepts can impact productivity and motivation.

Keeping in mind your clients’ requirements, pick a spot that offers the least distractions. No one wants the TV blaring in the background or a pressure cooker blowing the whistle up when they’re on a Zoom call! In a house with children, consider setting up the workspace in a room that can be locked so that disruptions are minimized. For any WFH space, lighting is vital. It helps to keep one alert and attentive while reducing strain on the eyes from computer screens. Then, focus on the ergonomics. The table and chair will be where your clients would probably spend 8+ hours of their day. You might want to make sure they are comfortable in that space. Also, ensure that the WFH spot has excellent internet connectivity.

What is a WFH without good WiFi anyway! Don’t forget to spruce up the wall behind the workspace, as it will be prominently featured in every Zoom meeting! While one doesn’t need decorations to be productive, it makes the space feel more personal. This, however, is best done taking your clients’ inputs into account. Again, the WFH space needs to be as functional as possible while not compromising on aesthetics. For smaller homes, a fold-away workspace with the same design principles could be a great idea to use the available space optimally.

MAKE IT GRAMMABLE

Given how pervasive social media has become, dismissing its importance while designing interiors would be a big mistake. Your design must be photogenic, to say the least! The easiest way to create Instagram-ready interiors is to stick to a minimalist design that
does not look cluttered in pictures. It is also easy for the clients to clean! That’s half the battle won. Include spots around the house that are artistic enough to be subjects of pictures but also look great as backgrounds. Use a colour scheme that is bright and
cheerful but doesn’t dominate when used as image background. Natural light, again, is your best bet to achieve perfect pictures. You can experiment based on your client’s tastes and choose from a vast range of crazy, quirky, and classic options.

MULTIFUNCTIONALITY IS KEY

Clients today want the most out of their interior design, so using elements that fulfil more than one purpose is a great way to improve return on investment! Furniture is usually the focus area for this trend, but you could very well apply it to spaces. For instance, instead of a couch, choose a sofa-cum-bed that fulfils a dual purpose or design the terrace as an urban jungle, a greenhouse, or a deck for your clients’ al fresco parties! The key is to select modular elements that one can configure as per the space available. The options are endless: folding beds, tables that act as ping pong tables or impromptu workspaces, shoe racks with seats, shelves that offer storage, or bookshelves that become decorative elements are just a few examples.

SPACES FOR ME-TIME

Considerable free time and access to new hobby options and the need to keep themselves occupied and active has made people around the world dabble into new recreational and leisure activities. This could mean anything from Yoga, dance workouts, learning musical instruments, pottery, pickling, macrame, fine arts to collecting books and curios, the list is
endless. Your clients would appreciate having a well-designed space to nurture their interests and learn new skills.

The trick is to keep the space open-ended so your clients can make it their own, based on their preferred activities. Now it is up to you, interior designers, to use this basic list of ideas creatively to express your design prowess and create a unique space that your clients can cherish for a long time!