Punjab house design: A fusion of heritage and contemporary style

Historical and Cultural Influences on Punjab House Design

The traditional Punjabi house interior design is a direct reflection of its history and the values of its people. Influences from Mughal, Sikh, and British colonial architecture are evident in the arches, domes, and decorative elements found across the region. The agricultural lifestyle also played a significant role, shaping homes to be communal, practical, and connected to nature.

Punjabi houses were also built to withstand the region's extreme climates, scorching summers and cold winters, leading to innovations in natural ventilation and insulation. Moreover, cultural values emphasizing family, community, and hospitality are physically manifested in features like the central courtyard, which serves as a gathering space for social and familial activities.

1. Central Courtyards

The vehra, or central courtyard, is the heart of a traditional Punjabi home. This open-to-sky space acts as a multi-functional area for everything from daily chores and social gatherings to sleeping under the stars during hot summer nights. It provides natural light and ventilation to the surrounding rooms, creating a comfortable microclimate and fostering a sense of community within the family.

3. Nanakshahi Bricks

Named after Guru Nanak, Nanakshahi bricks are smaller, thinner bricks that were widely used in the construction of historic Sikh architecture. Their use in residential buildings gives walls a distinctive texture and strength. These bricks are known for their durability and ability to create fine, detailed masonry work, contributing to the robust and earthy aesthetic of traditional structures.

4. Decorative Arches and Wooden Carvings

Ornate arches and detailed wooden carvings are prominent features that add a layer of grandeur and artistry. Carved wooden doors, window frames, and supportive beams often feature floral, geometric, or animal motifs. These elements not only showcased the craftsmanship of local artisans but also signified the status and artistic taste of the homeowner.

1. Brick and Lime Plaster

Exposed brickwork, often using Nanakshahi bricks, is a defining visual characteristic. Walls were commonly finished with lime plaster (chuna), a breathable material that helped regulate indoor temperatures and humidity, keeping interiors cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

2. Wood and Carved Elements

Wood, particularly teak and sheesham (Indian rosewood), was used extensively for structural elements like beams and pillars, as well as for doors, windows, and furniture. The tradition of wood carving was highly developed, with artisans creating elaborate designs that added warmth and character to the home interior design.

3. Fresco Murals

The walls of more affluent homes and havelis were often adorned with vibrant fresco murals. These paintings depicted scenes from folklore, religious texts, and daily life, turning the building itself into a canvas for storytelling and cultural expression.

4. Natural Ventilation Features

Beyond the courtyard, features like high ceilings, strategically placed windows, and ventilators (roshandans) were essential for passive cooling. These design elements worked together to create a natural airflow, reducing the reliance on artificial cooling methods and ensuring a comfortable living environment.

1. Phulkari Embroidery in Soft Furnishings

Phulkari, meaning "flower work," is a traditional embroidery style from Punjab. This vibrant threadwork, featuring colourful floral and geometric patterns, is used to decorate everything from shawls (odhinis) to cushion covers and wall hangings. It adds a burst of colour and a layer of texture to any Indian living room design.

2. Charpoy and Low Seating

The charpoy, a simple woven bed made from a wooden frame and ropes, is an iconic piece of Punjabi furniture. It is lightweight, versatile, and perfect for informal seating or napping. Along with low stools (peereh), this type of seating encourages a relaxed and communal atmosphere.

3. Brass Utensils and Décor

Gleaming brass utensils (bartan) and decorative items are a common sight in Punjabi kitchens and living spaces. Items like lassi glasses, water pots (gaggar), and ornate plates are not only functional but also serve as beautiful decorative pieces, adding a touch of rustic elegance.

4. Warm, Earthy Colour Palettes

The colour scheme in Punjab home designs is typically warm and inviting. Earthy tones like terracotta, ochre, and deep browns are often complemented by vibrant pops of colour from textiles and artwork, such as fuchsia, saffron yellow, and emerald green.

1. Minimalist Façades with Traditional Motifs

Punjabi house designs often feature clean, minimalist lines but incorporate traditional touches. A sleek concrete façade might be accented with a jali-inspired screen made of metal or laser-cut wood. Similarly, a simple entryway could be elevated by a large, ornately carved wooden door.

2. Use of Glass, Metal, and Concrete

While traditional materials are still valued, modern designs seamlessly integrate glass, steel, and polished concrete. Large glass walls in your living room designs can replace parts of a courtyard wall, offering an uninterrupted view of the green space while maintaining the connection between indoors and outdoors.

3. Compact Courtyard Layouts for Urban Spaces

In dense urban settings where large courtyards are not feasible, architects are designing smaller, internal light wells or landscaped patios. These compact versions serve the same purpose: bringing natural light and ventilation into the core of the home and providing a private green space.

4. Eco-conscious and Sustainable Features

Many of the principles of traditional Punjabi architecture are inherently sustainable. Modern interpretations build on this by incorporating features like rainwater harvesting systems, solar panels, and the use of reclaimed or locally sourced materials, creating homes that are both eco-friendly and culturally resonant.

1. Incorporating Folk Art on Feature Walls

Create a focal point by hanging a large piece of Punjabi folk art or a framed Phulkari textile. You could also experiment with a mural inspired by traditional motifs on a feature wall to make a bold statement.

2. Using Phulkari-inspired Cushions or Upholstery

One of the easiest ways to add a touch of Punjab is through textiles. Brightly coloured cushions, throws, or even a rug with Phulkari-inspired embroidery can instantly liven up a neutral sofa or bed in your living room.