Lifestyle Influencing Preferences in Home Interiors – Subha Pattnaik

In the past decade or so, most small cities in India have witnessed major lifestyle changes, and this can be attributed to factors including economic growth, urbanization, technological advancements and cultural influences. As a result, the aspirational needs of the people from these cities have grown significantly. One such aspiration that has particularly fascinated me in recent times is how people today are really specific about how their homes should feel and look, putting a lot of thought and planning behind it.

The emergence of professional architects, vaastu consultants and interior designers has further given impetus to this major lifestyle change, especially in Tier II and Tier III cities of India. Another prominent reason why this has happened is that major home infrastructure and home interiors brands have ventured into these markets giving people the choices that were previously not available to them.

Age of Aspiration and Sustainability

The advent of Internet and more specifically, Social Media has given increased global exposure to people living in small cities, developing in them, a taste for aesthetics and a desire for luxury. This is particularly more evident with the young generation of homeowners, who with just a simple swipe on their smartphones are able to find latest designs and trends on the Internet. Also, for them, functionality, technology and sustainability is a must for home interiors, which is why, modular furniture, modular kitchen, smart home devices and eco-friendly materials are a big hit among them.

Personalization

Another aspect that has resulted in the change in preference of people when it comes to home interiors is the desire for personalization and individualistic taste. Gone are the days, when one would have just one single color on the walls of the home; today, it is exactly the opposite. Each room is themed differently, with materials used in them, differing from each other. Not just that even the exteriors of the homes are being specially taken care of with materials like high pressure cladding, soffit and terra blocks.

Today, for people, a home is not just a place where you live, but it’s a place where you seek peace, comfort, wellbeing, functionality, personalization, efficiency, sustainability and a big sense of belongingness. This lifestyle change that is being witnessed today, even in the small cities of India, in my opinion, is a wonderful sign – a sign that tells me that Home is Where the Heart Is!

About Author

Mr. Subha Pattnaik is the Chairman of Rourkela Development Steering Committee and Immediate Past President of Rourkela Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI). He is also the Honorary Secretary of Brahmani Club, Rourkela. Besides being an avid reader, he is quite spiritually inclined. He is an active member of the business community of Rourkela and has been influential in the betterment of businesses and growth of business opportunities in the Steel city of Rourkela.