Bending the Light

Interior design: Studio Kahaaani

Long before the house was complete I knew I wanted a large scale statue taking its rightful place somewhere in our home. Bronze and brass idols carry a great deal of cultural significance in India, from religious symbolism to a celebration of traditional artisans. One piece can convey so much, and it can mean many different things to different people. Shiva, strong and noble and here in a state of symbolic cosmic dance to destroy evil and preserve goodness in the world, is also my son’s namesake.

Our foyer is rarely used as an entrance since we have a mudroom, but it’s always full of life as we pass through constantly. The perfect spot for good energy and beauty to flow through the home. And somehow, unexpected but seemingly fated, the light always finds Shiva and bends towards him.

With this focal point, I wanted to let the space and subject speak for themselves. The slate floor is elemental, and the area unadorned except for the Afghan runner. I love collecting and filling some spaces, but the foyer really captures for me the modern organic approach that was a guiding principle for me in this house. Now if I could just get my little Shiva to stop putting his sunglasses on this one…. 😎