Rajkot’s long, hot summers and strong sunlight shape how a home should be designed here. So does the city’s heritage: carved timber, jaali screens and courtyards that kept homes cool long before air conditioning. Good interiors in Rajkot draw on both.
Colours that keep a room cool
Colour changes how warm a room feels. Soft whites, warm greys, pale stone and muted greens reflect light without glare and make rooms feel calmer in the heat. Stronger colours work best in small doses: a cushion, a niche or a single feature wall.
Texture for depth
With a quieter palette, texture does the work. Lime plaster, fluted panels, handwoven rugs, cane and natural stone add depth and warmth to a room without making it feel heavy. Stone and terrazzo floors also stay cool underfoot through the summer.
Old and new, side by side
A carved jharokha, a jaali screen or a traditional swing can sit comfortably in a contemporary room. The contrast gives a home character and a sense of place. Jaali screens are also practical: they let air through and break up harsh sunlight into soft patterns.
Light by day and by night
Plan daylight first. Shaded openings, light from more than one side and pale surfaces bring brightness in without the heat. After dark, layer the lighting: general light for the room, task light where you cook or read, and soft accent light on walls, art and texture.
Making every square foot count
Many homes have less space than their families need. Built-in storage, furniture that serves two purposes and careful planning of circulation can make a compact flat feel generous, without giving up style.
Choosing materials responsibly
Efficient lighting, durable finishes and furniture made from responsibly sourced materials keep a home comfortable for longer and reduce running costs. Local materials and crafts also support the region’s makers and suit its climate.
