Swaying back and forth, a swing or a jhula is a common fixture of older Indian households that adds whimsy, familiar comfort and relaxing familiarity which is rooted in the magic of traditions. Here are some architects that have reintegrated this symbol of cozy earthiness into contemporary designs, to produce results that are genuinely breathtaking.
1. Rahul Das Menon, Principal Architect, studio TAB
“The swing “Indian jhula” is a very interesting piece of furniture. We at studio TAB always try to introduce the jhula in its pure form or an interpretation of it based on the conceptual planning of the project. The jhula adds character, flair and a distinct sense of home within the given space. It is functional as much as it is aesthetic. It is a piece of furniture that encapsulates multi-fold functions – be it leisure, lounging, reading or a siesta.”
2. Hardik Shah, Founder, Studio Lagom
“Swings are a quintessentially Indian traditional element. So their presence in a design scheme automatically brings in a flavour of the bygone, irrespective how the swing is actually articulated — either as a modern form or a more traditional one. We’ve used swings in living rooms as additional seats which also act as a subtle divider between two seating islands. So as a design element, they’re quite versatile.”
3. Nishita Kamdar, Founder, Studio Nishita Kamdar
“A swing in India is one of the most important traditional and cultural furniture pieces. The gentle whiff of air while swaying to the rhythmic motion of the swing, not only makes for a great afternoon siesta spot but also strikes a chord of nostalgia in everyone. This piece we made for the open house comes from a similar thought. The children of the house loved spending time with the grandmother, huddling around her and playing with her. The swing was just apt in her room, where she could entertain her grand-kids while swaying away.”
4. Ar. Niki Panchani and Er. Vivek Patel, Founder, Pavan Infratech
“Swings are seating options often seen in Gujarati households. Their unique design transforms space into a fun retreat by bringing back childhood memories leaving us nostalgic. Swinging has proven to be beneficial for health as it enhances sensory integration. Nowadays professional stress is commonly found in people, even after returning to their homes they are still occupied with work stress while swinging helps them to relieve stress. Generally, we prefer having a swing with a common sitting. Every swing we design is considered as an element of space that is intricately detailed base for the concept of the home.”
5. Pankaj Poddar, Co-founder, Hipcouch
“Swings or Jhulas, as locally termed, bring in a sense of vernacular touch to the space. It connects the old to the new, modern to the traditional while keeping a check on its own distinctiveness. A jhula can bring in a playful and cozy vibe to any part of the home. Added benefit for this furniture piece is the varied materials it can be made out of. Jhulas hold memories that are carried from one generation to the next. We believe, jhulas bring in a sense of openness to the room with its no legs formula and helps in nurturing relationships more organically.”
6. Meeti Shroff Topiwala & Neeket Topiwala, Founders, Fables Designs
“Jhulas, swings or hinchko are an essential part of a gujarati household. In modern times having a swing in the house is more of a memory that you connect to your childhood. To revive the same we at Fables Designs installed a small wooden pattiya jhula in the living area. The jhula acts as a connection between the living & dining area sparking a conversation in the room. It witnesses various moments in the house right from sitting together and enjoying a cup of tea, to spending ‘me time’ with a good book.”
7. Ranjitha Govind Raj, Founder, DesignRitmo
“In this house, we were able to carve out space where the client is reminded of the essence of living within nature. A semi-open terrace space, in a setting of green walls and grass engulfed in natural light. When a setting is created, we needed to decide how the client will engage in the space. The decision of adding the jhula was to emphasize the idea of creating a touch of vernacular living. The jhula brings in a very special touch to the space. While being the main eye-catching element, it also brings in a calming effect subconsciously along with bringing in childhood memories of a swing.”
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