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(By Amrita Gupta)

The arrival of the monsoon changes more than just the weather. It brings with it a shift in how we live indoors. While many people focus on staying dry, the rainy season is also a good time to reassess your home setup. Small changes can make your space feel lighter, more practical, and a bit more in tune with the weather.
 
Here are a few ideas to refresh your home during the monsoon season: 

Rethinking Spaces for the Season

When the rains start, the way we use our homes changes. Wet umbrellas pile up at the entrance. Windows stay shut more often. There's less natural light. Instead of fighting that, it's easier to adapt.

Move Things Around

A basic starting point is moving furniture slightly away from walls. This helps with air circulation and reduces the chance of mould or moisture creeping in. If your furniture is right up against a window or balcony, shift it back a bit to avoid rain splash or humidity damage. It’s not about doing a full rearrangement, just a few small tweaks that can prevent issues later.

Create One Dry Zone Near the Entrance

Monsoon or not, people will forget to wipe their feet. Lay down a heavy-duty doormat and place a simple tray or basket near the door for wet shoes and umbrellas. If you have the space, add a small bench so you can sit and remove your shoes comfortably. It’s not glamorous, but it works.

Colours That Work With the Weather

The dull skies and low light during the monsoon can make a home feel flat. The easy fix is colour on walls, furnishings, or even accessories. You don’t need to repaint a whole room to make a difference. Try painting just one section of a wall or a window recess in a bold or warm tone, like mustard, bottle green, or rust. These colours look good even in low light and don’t show dirt or water stains as easily.

Fabrics That Can Handle the Damp

Fabric choices during the monsoon matter more than people realise. Cushions, curtains, and rugs can trap moisture and start to smell musty if you are not careful. Swap out heavy drapes for lighter materials like cotton or polyester blends that dry quickly and don’t retain moisture. If you live in a particularly humid area, avoid velvet, wool, or thick blends during the season.

Protect Upholstery With Washable Cover

If you have kids or pets, use slipcovers for sofas and chairs that can be removed and washed easily. They also protect your upholstery from damp clothes, wet bags, or unexpected spills.

Outdoor Spaces That Can Still Be Used

Most people avoid balconies or patios during the rains, but with a few adjustments, they can be enjoyable again. If your balcony isn’t already covered, think about getting a temporary awning or even using a thick outdoor fabric stretched as a canopy. It’s not permanent, but it will make the space usable for at least a few months.

Amrita Gupta is Chief Interior Designer & Director of Manglam Group