Kerala Style Interior Design: - Core Elements and Inspiration

Essential Tips for What Is Kerala Style Interior Design?

What is Kerala Style Interior Design? The hotel pays homage to Kenyan craftsmanship and heritage through its use of locally sourced wood and its architectural design. The traditional homes of Kerala, known as nalukettu and ettukettu, are renowned for their distinct architectural elements such as open courtyards and sloping tile roofs that promote cross-ventilation to combat the tropical climate. Look at the wooden columns, which hold the roof of the temple and notice how intricately they are carved. The beams of the ceilings in temples are often decorated in an elaborate manner. Over the years, the traditional homes have evolved to incorporate modern amenities for comfort while still retaining their original charm and elegance. The minimalist style, a harmonious appeal to nature and the use of organic materials are incredibly attractive in the modern world. This is why the style never seems to completely fall out of favor among mainstream homeowners. By evoking a sense of harmony and tranquility, they ensure that the home is not only beautiful but also deeply cherished.

• Color Palette

  Kerala–inspired interiors channel the vivid lushness of the landscape and its worn, organic materials. Earthy tones like ochres, terracotta, muted reds, deep browns and creams. Cool whites and gentle sand colors create balance, while forest green or indigo provide pops of color, usually via textiles or a painted door. Natural light brings them to life, so the room never feels heavy. Brass and gold accents, such as those found in temple art and traditional lamps, lend a golden glow to the interiors. The overall effect is calming and organic, as the brand seemingly steers away from any loud contrasts. This palette accentuates the beauty of solid wood and woven cane furniture.

• Materials & Textures

  Kerala interiors are synonymous with tactile richness and natural resources. Teak, rosewood, and jackfruit wood are favored for furniture and detailing, prized for their durability and attractive grain patterns. Polished stone floors—most notably cool, locally sourced black granite or red oxide—are a staple in many traditional homes. Cane, coir, and rattan provide texture and a breezy, lightweight feel to chairs, dividers, and ceiling panels. Soft, breathable cotton and linen textiles echo the tropical climate and lend a relaxed mood. The play between smooth wood, rough-hewn stone, and woven fibers enlivens every surface. This strategic layering of textures creates visual interest without overwhelming the senses.

• Furniture & Silhouettes

  Furniture in Kerala-style homes prioritizes comfort and classic lines, often handcrafted by local artisans. Statement pieces include hefty four-poster beds, gently curved wooden armchairs (like the famed ‘planter’s chair’), and daybeds placed strategically for cross-breeze. Low, squat seating and broad swings (called ‘oonjal’) reinforce a welcoming, communal vibe. Silhouettes favor simplicity—subtle curves over ornate carving, square tables with chunky legs, and minimalist dressers. Wood finishes tend toward rich, dark polishes that highlight natural grain rather than disguise it. While pieces may look substantial, their proportions avoid bulkiness. Each item is chosen for its blend of utility, artisanal quality, and timeless style.

• Decor & Accessories

  Accents and décor are traditional and carefully selected. Intricate brass lamps (nilavilakku), uruli bowls filled with floating flowers and hand-painted murals enliven otherwise understated rooms. Temple-inspired sculptures, vintage wood-framed mirrors and woven palm baskets are just some of the ways to bring history into your home. Consider the use of patterned soft textiles like block print cushions or drapes with subtle motifs derived from Kerala sarees. Natural elements like fresh banana leaves, potted palms and bowls of jasmine flowers also play an essential role in recreating the look. Accessories are intentionally selected to align and respect the surrounding elements rather than just for their aesthetic appeal. Everything looks balanced and harmonious.

• Architectural Features

  The architecture at the core of Kerala design is distinctly local and traditional. The sloping terracotta-tiled roofs and open courtyards (nadumuttam) are adaptations to the state’s heavy monsoons and humid climate. Timber ceiling beams, carved doors and latticed windows offer structure and repetition. Thick lime-plastered walls keep heat out, while deep verandas and terraces dissolve barriers between indoors and outdoors. Ornamental wooden brackets and cornices hint at the rich history behind them but never overwhelm. The layout is linear and the rooms are frequently arranged around a garden to promote cross ventilation and illumination. Each design is heavily influenced by the region’s climate, culture and communal lifestyle.

• Planning & Composition