The havelis of Rajasthan were built around courtyards, thresholds and shrines. Their logic still works in a flat: an entrance that welcomes, a room that gathers, a corner that is quiet.
The threshold
In a haveli the doorway is the most decorated surface in the house. A toran above the door, a lamp beside it and a low seat inside. This is the cheapest and most effective room to give heritage character.
The gathering room
The baithak, the sitting room, was arranged around a wall hanging and a low table. Today that is a Pichwai above the sofa, cushions in a single textile family, and brass rather than glass on the table.
The shrine corner
Every haveli kept a small shrine. Give it a painted backdrop, a lamp and a shelf, and keep everything else away from it. Quiet is its decoration.
Colour
Deep green, ivory, indigo, ochre and gold: the Pichwai palette is also the palette of Rajputana interiors. Use the deep colours on one wall or in the textiles, and keep the rest ivory.
Questions people ask
What is a haveli?
A traditional courtyard house of Rajasthan and north India, built around an open court with rooms opening off it.
Where should I start?
At the door. A toran, a lamp and a border panel change the first impression of a home more than any other purchase.
