Reviving Indian Knowledge Systems in Contemporary Interior Design

Abstract

This paper delves into the potential of traditional Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) as a source of inspiration and guidance for contemporary interior design. Indian Knowledge Systems, encompassing ancient wisdom in areas such as architecture, materials, spatial organization, and aesthetics, offer valuable insights that remain relevant in today’s design landscape. The paper examines the historical design principles rooted in IKS, such as Vastu Shastra, which emphasizes the balance between human habitation and the natural environment, and the use of locally sourced, sustainable materials that have been employed for centuries in Indian architecture.

By analyzing these traditional practices, the paper aims to demonstrate their applicability in addressing modern challenges, particularly in terms of sustainability and environmental consciousness. As the world increasingly prioritizes eco-friendly practices, the principles of IKS, which naturally incorporate sustainability, become even more pertinent. Additionally, the paper explores how these design principles contribute to cultural preservation, offering a way to maintain and celebrate India’s rich cultural heritage in a rapidly globalizing world.

The goal of this exploration is to highlight how integrating IKS into modern interior design can contribute to the vision of a "Viksit Bharat" or a developed India. By creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also culturally significant and environmentally sustainable, the paper argues that IKS can play a crucial role in shaping the future of Indian architecture and interior design. Through this synthesis of tradition and modernity, India can develop in a way that honors its past while embracing the future.