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When you start something close to your heart, your inspirations matter deeply. For me, Coral Slub was never just a brand; it was a way to bring the beauty of Indian craftsmanship into everyday homes.
Over the years, I have drawn immense learning and motivation from a few incredible Indian home furnishing brands that have beautifully blended tradition, design, and storytelling.
Here are five brands that continue to inspire me in my journey as an entrepreneur and design enthusiast.
1. FabIndia – The Art of Making India Global
Ever since my NIFT days, FabIndia has held a special place in my heart. Owning something from FabIndia was always on my wishlist because it symbolized craftsmanship, authenticity, and pride in Indian design.
Founded in 1960 by John Bissell, FabIndia began as an export house for Indian handlooms and later evolved into a lifestyle brand that celebrates India’s artisanal heritage. Today, it’s one of the most recognized names in Indian home furnishings, known for handwoven fabrics, earthy aesthetics, and timeless appeal.
What I admire most about FabIndia is how they’ve taken artisanal work to the mainstream, giving Indian craftspeople the visibility and respect they deserve. Their credibility, consistency, and strong brand identity have always inspired me.
2. Vaaree and Nestasia – The New-Age D2C Powerhouses
When I started Coral Slub, I closely studied Vaaree and Nestasia : two remarkable brands that have mastered the D2C home decor space.
Both have carved their niche by offering a balanced mix of design, price, and accessibility. I love how they’ve created a complete bouquet of home products from cushions and bed linens to decor accessories that appeal to modern Indian homes.
Their pricing strategy is smart: neither too premium nor too mass-market, but positioned just right. It’s a fine example of how thoughtful curation, digital storytelling, and strong brand positioning can build trust online an invaluable lesson for any new D2C founder.
3. India Circus by Krsnaa Mehta and Chumbak – A Celebration of Colour and Culture
I have always been drawn to brands that tell stories through colour, and both India Circus by Krsnaa Mehta and Chumbak do that brilliantly.
India Circus is known for its bold use of colour, intricate motifs, and eclectic fusion of Indian heritage with contemporary style. Krsnaa Mehta’s designs bring alive Indian textiles, architecture, and art in a way that feels both nostalgic and modern.
Chumbak, on the other hand, adds a playful, youthful energy to Indian design. Their vibrant palette, quirky illustrations, and joyful approach to home decor celebrate the vibrance of Indian living.
I admire how both these brands have built instantly recognizable visual identities, proof that “Indian” can also mean bright, modern, and full of life.
4. D’Decor – Luxury for Modern Indian Homes
D’Decor has redefined luxury in the Indian home furnishings market. Known for its innovation and style, it offers designs that suit urban, contemporary homes without losing warmth or comfort.
Founded in 1999, D’Decor quickly became one of the world’s largest manufacturers of soft furnishings. What I find inspiring is how they’ve maintained the perfect balance between premium quality and approachable elegance.
Their brand image polished yet relatable proves that Indian homes are ready for luxury that feels accessible. It’s a reminder that great design doesn’t have to be out of reach.
5. Okhai – Empowering Artisans, Enriching Homes
While design and quality inspire me, purpose-driven brands like Okhai touch me on a deeper level.
Run by the Tata Chemicals Society for Rural Development, Okhai supports rural women artisans by giving them sustainable livelihoods and creative visibility. Their handcrafted products whether apparel or home furnishings reflect purity, simplicity, and a strong social cause.
I admire how they use natural fabrics, traditional embroidery, and earthy palettes to tell meaningful stories. For me, Okhai represents what Indian design should always be about: art, heart, and authenticity.
Inspiration in Every Thread
Each of these brands has shaped how I view design, storytelling, and business. From FabIndia’s timeless craft to Okhai’s social mission, they remind me that home furnishings are not just about fabrics or patterns they’re about emotion, heritage, and connection.
At Coral Slub, I strive to carry forward that spirit to bring artistry into homes, to celebrate Indian craftsmanship, and to create products that feel personal and purposeful.
Because at the end of the day, every cushion, curtain, or throw is not just decor; it’s a story woven in threads.
