Let your space sparkle and shine

Diwali is more than just a festival; it is also a time for celebrating with your family and friends. However, hosting the perfect Diwali soiree goes beyond just serving good food and involves curating an ambience that radiates with joy. Here’s how you can transform your space and ready it for the ensuing festivities.

Clean out the clutter

​Cleaning and decluttering your house before the party should be your first plan of action. “Start with areas such as the foyer, living room and dining space, where guests spend most of their time. Remove unnecessary furniture and accessories to clear the space and allow statement pieces, like coffee tables and accent chairs, to stand out. Then, polish all the wooden surfaces and clean your upholstery and nooks and crannies,” explains Punam Kalra, the creative director of I’m The Centre for Applied Arts. Also, wipe down surfaces and fluff up sofas with freshly laundered, embroidered cushions. “Pay special attention to lighting fixtures, mirrors, and reflective surfaces, as these amplify both light and the appearance of rooms. Refresh linens, such as table runners and napkins, and keep guest bathrooms stocked and tidy,” asserts Sarita Handa, the founder and chairperson, Sarita Handa. Kitchens and storage zones deserve attention too; organised counters will lend a sense of calm even amidst the bustle of cooking and hosting.

Sit in style

When hosting a party, you must create enough space for your guests to sit. Rearrange your couches to encourage easy conversation and mingling, and keep busy areas uncluttered. “Focus on creating a space that feels festive, comfortable, and reflects your personal style. Even small changes, like switching the position of your sofa or adding pouffes and ottomans, will create additional seating without cluttering the space,” shares Vaishali Lahoti Shah, the design lead, home storage at Interio by Godrej. Instead of decorating every corner, concentrate on important areas like the living room, dining room, or entrance. “You can create a cosy, multidimensional atmosphere with lanterns, diyas, or fairy lights. Also add a single statement piece, such as a console table, a centrepiece, or a floral rangoli,” shares Geeta Arya, principal architect, Geeta Vaibhav Architects. You can also layer your tables with embroidered runners or vibrant linens and place fresh fl owers or even rose petals in bowls for a fragrant touch.

Colour coded

​To really let your interiors standout, keep your colour palette neutral. “Accentuate your space with gold lamps, brass diyas, or textured candleholders to add a soft shimmer without overwhelming the surroundings. Layering is key; pair smooth, high-gloss surfaces with matte textures or wood grains for a balance of shine and comfort. Choose d�cor elements that are easy to care for and clean, so that even if there’s a spill, your space will stay pristine through it all,” advises Tushar Verma, executive vice president, REHAU India and Subcon. In terms of food, take on a practical approach and create buffet-style setups or grazing tables that look chic and organised.

Small touches

​Tiny touches like including fragrant elements and introducinggreenery can elevate your space, too. “A bowl of marigold petals and strings of mogra hung across mirrors or the main door can instantly uplift the mood. You can also move existing pieces or repurpose your favourite accessories, and let light and scents do the rest,” adds Anubha Laroiya Aneja, founder, HomAnAn. Don’t forget plants, either as potted varieties, either indoors or on a balcony, offer a natural sense of calm.

Most importantly, don’t forget the lights, the most important aspect of Diwali. “Create a warm glow in your home by introducing a mix of lamps and diyas. Additionally, music, scent, and small gestures, such as pre-poured beverages or neatly folded napkins, will elevate the atmosphere more than expensive d�cor,” avers Mita Mehta, founder and interior stylist and curator, Mita Mehta Studios.You can incorporate a blend of modern and vintage elements to give your abode an ethnic yet stylish appearance. “Team traditional brass or marble accents with a few contemporary glass or crystal items for a classic look.Create snug corners with accent rugs, pouffes, candles, diffusers and background music for your guests to unwind and connect. Also, gift your guests customised trays or hampers to take home after the party,” concludes Anjaleka Kripalani, founder of Angie Homes.