How is Stone Craft Integrated in Indian Homes?
The history of stone craft and Indian homes is long, elaborate, and beautiful.
Since ancient times, stones have been integral parts of traditional Indian homes, such as furniture, structural components, and decor.
The idea is to utilize nature’s fierce materials and incorporate them into our houses to elevate our stability and structural integrity.
As we advance in modern architecture, architects aim to integrate more of these original ideas of stone craft into modern homes to bring back the same sense of utility.
Please continue reading to find out how stone craft was integrated initially and how it’s becoming an addition to modern Indian homes.
Types of Stones in India
Different varieties of stones found in India are used for sculpturing and stone crafts. Some of these are listed here:
- Igneous rocks or hard granite
- Sedimentary rocks or colored sandstones
- Metamorphic rocks or soft soapstone, marble and limestone
Since ancient times, the two most prominent types of stonework made from these rocks can be observed almost everywhere in India.
The first is relief structured panels with carvings on one side and a flat surface on the other.
Second are three-dimensional figures and statues, famously seen in temples and other old forms of architecture.
However, these are more decorative ways of utilizing stone craft.
More general ways were using stone-made furniture, like table tops and kitchen countertops, or even as walls and ceilings in some regions.
Stone Craft In Modern Indian Architecture
Now that we’ve looked at the different types of stones and traditional ways of incorporating stone craft let’s look at how they can be integrated into our homes today.
1. Tabletops
These are probably the most widely used methods of having stone-based furniture at home.
Tabletops are a beautiful blend of color, texture, and stability.
Not only are they extremely durable and superior in quality, but they also come in various options that make them a wonderful choice.
You can also choose the raw material and the design you want and outsource the job to a specialist.
They will make your perfect tabletop the way you want.
2. Mosaic Tiles
Mosaic tiles are a somewhat old form of interior design. Indian houses tend to have a lot of mosaic work, especially the tiles.
However, they’ve become quite rare these days. Nevertheless, the style of mosaic tiles is just as timeless, and they can be beautifully integrated in several ways.
They’re incredibly unique and easy to keep clean. You can install mosaic tiles for walkways, lawns, fireplaces, or backyards if you want mosaic tiles.
3. Fireplace
Several homes in India have fireplaces, especially towards the north.
Homes in Jammu & Kashmir, Leh Ladakh, Sikkim, and other cold regions have beautiful fireplaces since residents consistently battle the cold.
Fireplaces made of stones tend to keep the fires warmer and last longer. Natural stones also provide a lot of resistance and sturdiness.
Having stone fireplaces allows you to burn large fires, too.
4. Garden Furniture
Are you wondering how to elevate your home’s exterior? Stone might be the answer.
Stone can be designed and crafted into chairs, tables, coffee tables, or other furniture to be kept in the garden, patios, or lawns.
This could be a great way to decorate it, especially if you have a huge lawn or garden in front of your home.
You could become a place of relaxation, rejuvenation, and recharging in your free time.
5. Marble Crafting
Delicate flowers or designs crafted into marble make a beautiful home decor.
Choosing mild color palettes like beige, white, off-white, etc., will make the intricate designs stand out even more.
However, this option depends on your preferences. For instance, if you want more traditional ways of integrating stonework, you might want to look at furniture options.
But if it’s about decorating and elevating your living space, these designs might help.
6. Stone Screen Wall
We often wish to partition a big room into two without building an actual wall.
For instance, if you have a large hall with dining in the same space, dividing the room in two seems like a wise decision.
You can use stone screen walls with intricate, beautiful designs to achieve the outcome.
Some designs also have spaces to keep decorative items, stationary, or other easy-access objects.
Elevate your living rooms by installing a wonderful stone screen wall!
Interested in learning more? Check out our previous blog, where we’ve covered the intricacies of traditional Indian houses in detail!
Final Thoughts
Stonecraft is a sturdy, reliable, and durable material to integrate into your home.
Not only are these easy to clean and maintain, but they also have an incredibly long life.
The stonework is a great way of bringing the outdoors and natural materials into your home, making it a cool, calm, rejuvenation space.
While furniture, wall decor, and tiles are some of the best ways to integrate stone crafts into your home, marble crafts, screen walls, and decor items are just as beautiful.
What is your favorite way of having stonework in your home? Let us know in the comments section below!
