Embracing Nepalese Heritage: A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity in Interior Design

Know more about Nepal's rich cultural riches by delving into its colorful past. Adopting Nepali ancestry is a gratifying and fascinating experience.

How can interior designers embrace Nepalese heritage while incorporating elements of modernity?

I feel that our heritage is our identity. Interior design should have the storytelling power of different cultures and traditions that we have in our country. We interior designers have the freedom to mix and match different design trends from ancient to the modern era, from the minimal to the ornate details of the historical period. There is no such rule while embracing our heritage to create a unique and personalized look – only chances are to take a calculated risk so that the authenticity of tradition and culture is not erased. However, the designer should possess proper knowledge of the given heritage – traditions, cultures, styles, and eras, since the Nepalese historical design in architecture is quite different and unique. Each and every material used, elements adopted, and tiny details have a meaning as to why and how it is in that particular place. With tricky and wise use of design principles and elements, one should have the ability to upload them into the design which can easily create a harmonious blend of heritage into modern design.

How does the fusion of tradition and modernity in Nepalese interior design create a unique and captivating aesthetic?

Tradition represents the past, while modernity is derived from tradition. Hence, tradition and modernity are in an ordered relation of transition from time and space. It is the foundation of the modern development process. As I mentioned earlier, the design should hold the essence and connotation of traditional Nepalese design while practicing modernity. Design does not consist of beautiful furniture and décor items. It is a science that should reflect the proper balance and blend of technicality, functionality, and aesthetics. The modern design process should go hand in hand with traditional values. The designer should be able to combine them practically and rationally to one’s creativity that follows modern life demands. The result of such a process creates a well-balanced unique interior which is a demand of the modern age and people’s lifestyle.

What materials and textures are commonly used in Nepalese Inspired interiors and how can they be incorporated into modern design schemes?

Timeless rather than trendy, traditional material and texture never go out of style. The traditional style lends a sense of stability, and intimacy, close to nature and specially curated. A dark and warm tone defines the color palette of Nepalese-inspired Interior, as the tone is always warm and welcoming - Materials like Local Wood, Bricks, and Stones can be one of the best choices. Heavy and ornate is the design choice for fabric as it is handmade with love - Materials like Palpali Dhaka can be used wisely. Natural plants and nature-inspired paper as decorative paper: Material like Nepali Haate Kagaj. Moreover, let's not forget the masterpieces from many talented Nepali artists who bring life to the art: handcrafted on wood, brass, copper, silver, gold, traditional canvas, and pottery can be the most valuable items in terms of decor.

Design has no boundaries, no scheme. It is an evolution of creativity that designers can launch in one's work.

How does embracing Nepalese heritage in interior design promote cultural preservation and awareness in Nepal?

The ancient development in the history of Nepalese Art and Design that we call our Heritage has been embraced and appreciated by the world. The durbar squares in Kathmandu Valley and the local ethnicity of the area are the best examples that anyone can get inspired for their design. Incorporating our heritage into the modern design, not only preserves it for the next generation but also can create another achievement in history. In addition, art and design are the identities of culture and tradition. And the culture and tradition of Nepal is a cumulative form of its ethnicity, religions, values, beliefs, tribal and social groups. The significance of culture and tradition is the symbol of harmonized and diversified society. It shows the rich lifestyle which is peculiar from any other country. Hence, the influence of heritage with reference to culture and tradition in the interior can play a great role in its promotion and preservation.

In your perspective how has the gap between modern and traditional design changed in modern times and what are your thoughts on aspects of both?

To my knowledge, interior design itself does not hold that long of a history. Nevertheless, the evidence of Nepali art and design dates back to the fourth century of the Lichchhavi period. This development in Art and Design can be taken as an influence on the development of interior design in Nepal. Interior design as a profession has been emerging these days. Inspiration and adaptation in design from foreign developed countries have a huge impact in Nepal too. This kind of reference has increased the number of modern thematic designs that suit the lifestyle and at the same time, it has created a gap between the traditional and modern design. I believe, ‘NO DESIGNS ARE BAD WHEN IT IS AUTHENTIC”. Design purely defines your lifestyle and personal behavior whether it is modern or traditional. Inside every Nepali household, there is one’s tradition and culture that we never can rub out. Hence, as a designer, one should mark the loophole in design and analyze the gap between traditional and modern design during the design process. 

How has technology helped to incorporate Nepalese heritage into interior design?

Technological systems are invented by humans so as culture and tradition. Both ancient and modern human civilizations benefited from and have been impeded by their inventions and innovations. However, it has enhanced and made human life easier and better. So, it has helped to acquaint Nepalese Heritage on an international platform in a single click. The intricate work in handicrafts like wood carving, metal work, and stone carving has benefited from its advanced application to perform specific tasks. Advancement in technology has shown many opportunities in interior design to fulfill the modern lifestyle and its needs in an efficient and effective way.