Want to create a heritage corner in your home? Here are a few tips.
We spent a few years in South Africa. When we came back to India, we created a small corner which we named as our ‘Africa corner’. We put all the artefacts that we had collected during our stay in South Africa. The masks and paintings from the flea market, the vases, Ostrich egg and wooden figurines from the organic market and so on. Another friend collects handicraft items from each state of India during her travel. She has made an ‘India heritage corner’ in her house. When my daughter was in school, she collected memorabilia from the seven wonders of the world and had a ‘seven wonders of the world’ corner on her book-shelf.
Why a heritage corner?
Creating a heritage corner in your house is more than just a decor trend; it’s a heartfelt tribute to your roots. It’s a space that whispers stories of your family, culture, and the times that have shaped who you are today.
A heritage corner is essentially a dedicated space in your home that showcases important objects and elements from your personal or cultural history. Think of it as a curated gallery where every item tells a story, sparking curiosity and conversation. This corner serves as a bridge connecting you and your family to your past, allowing you to reflect on your journey and traditions. It’s like having a piece of your history in the heart of your home.
Choose Your Heritage Theme
Personal Heritage
Firstly, think about what your heritage means to you. Is it tied to your family’s lineage? Maybe it reflects your cultural roots? Defining this will help guide the imagery and pieces you might want to include.
Cultural Influences
Are there particular cultures or traditions that resonate with you? E.g. tribal culture from rural India. Or folk culture from Rajasthan or temple architecture from South India and so on. You might cherish elements from your travels or appreciate art from particular cultures. This is the perfect opportunity to include pieces that fascinate and inspire you.
Historical Periods
Consider incorporating items from historical periods that you admire. Whether it’s Victorian elegance or rustic farmhouse styles, aligning your corner with a specific era can add depth and context to your space.
Gather Heritage Items
Family Heirlooms
Start by raiding your attic or talking to family members about heirlooms. These might be old photographs, grandmother’s jewellery box, or even the funky lamp from your childhood.
Cultural Artifacts
Don’t forget about decorations that reflect your culture, such as traditional masks, pottery, or sculptures. Each piece you choose will add to the narrative you want to share.
Adding personalized elements like family photos or historical images adds a personal touch. You might want to tell stories related to each photo; why not add small captions to invite conversations?
Stories Behind the Items
Each item should tell a story—make sure to reflect on what these pieces mean to you and share anecdotes with anyone who visits.
Interactive Elements
Consider adding elements that guests can interact with, such as a guestbook for family and friends to jot down their stories related to your heritage corner.
A heritage corner offers a personal connection to the past, allowing reflections on where you come from, creating a sense of belonging. It fosters family bonds. It becomes a gathering place for family stories, forging strong connections that maintain traditions and encourage storytelling among generations.
So, what are you waiting for? Embark on the journey!!