What is artisanal craftsmanship, and why it is making a comeback in Indian homes

Artisanal craftsmanship is making a comeback in Indian homes. But what is it exactly? Remember the intricate carvings and jali work in heritage homes or in the homes of your grandparents? The fine wood carved bed or the objects and spaces created largely by hand, guided by skill, experience, and cultural knowledge rather than automated processes is making a silent comeback. In the context of real estate and interiors, it shows up in details that carry the mark of the maker: hand-carved woodwork, lime-plastered walls, hand-laid tiles, woven lighting, or furniture shaped slowly rather than stamped out in a factory.For several decades, there had been a shift from the traditional hand crafted designs and the environment leaned heavily on standardisation. Prefabricated materials, modular fittings, and mass-produced finishes made construction faster and more affordable. But they also flattened difference. Flats and apartments started looking very similar-almost like regardless of climate, culture, or context. And people looking for uniqueness and an sense of customization felt lots! Artisanal craftsmanship is emerging as a response to that sameness.

One reason more homeowners and developers are opting for artisanal elements is the desire for individuality. In real estate, where value is often measured in square feet and specifications, there is very little room for individuality in flats. And hence here, handcrafted details add character that cannot be replicated. A piece of stone floor chiseled and polished with hands or custom wooden jaali instantly sets a home apart. These choices do not just add beauty, but also There is also a growing awareness of material honesty and longevity in artisanal creations. Many artisanal techniques rely on natural materials and time-tested methods-solid wood instead of engineered boards as carvings can be done easily on natural materials. They also mostly use natural pigments instead of synthetic coatings, breathable plasters instead of chemical-heavy finishes. These materials age differently. They develop patina rather than wear out, which appeals to homeowners who see their homes as long-term investments rather than disposable assets.“Artisanal craftsmanship is redefining premium office designs as well because organisations today seek depth, not decoration. There is a clear shift away from generic, template-driven workplaces towards environments that feel considered, tactile, and human. Craft-led detailing brings that depth by introducing material honesty, refined execution, and a sense of permanence that resonates with leadership teams and employees alike”, says Sammeer Pakvasa, Managing Director & CEO, Eleganz Interiors Limited.

Sustainability also plays an important role in these craftmanships. Artisanal work is often locally sourced and locally made, reducing transport and industrial waste. In interiors, this means furniture crafted by regional carpenters, textiles woven by nearby clusters, or stone sourced from local quarries. In real estate projects, especially boutique developments and private homes, this approach aligns with a broader shift toward responsible building—one that respects resources and local economies.Another factor is the changing idea of luxury. Today, luxury is less about excess and more about intention. A handcrafted dining table made by a master carpenter carries a different kind of value. There is no denying that fact that it will be considered far superior and classy than a branded but mass-produced piece. In premium real estate, artisanal interiors signal thoughtfulness, cultural depth, and time invested—qualities increasingly associated with refined living. Sanjay Pareek, Co-Founder and Director – Beyond & More says, “The future of luxury interiors isn’t about perfection but about personality. As design becomes more global, what truly sets a space apart is the human touch. The subtle signs of time, care, and intention. Artisanal craftsmanship brings this to life. Each handcrafted detail, whether a carved surface, woven texture, or burnished finish, carries emotion, imperfection, and presence. These are not just aesthetic choices but expressions of meaning and memory.“According to , Kamal Khemani, Senior Vice President – Design & Liaison, Raheja Universal, “We are witnessing a redefinition of what luxury truly means to today’s discerning client. Ten years ago, prestige was about owning a brand-new Italian designer piece that everybody recognised. Now, true luxury lies in exclusivity – in owning something no one else has. Think of a hand-carved console that took a master craftsman three months to make, or a textile woven using techniques passed down through five generations. This isn’t nostalgia; it’s an evolution toward craftsmanship. Home buyers today are far more informed about what they bring into their homes.”

Finally, there is an emotional aspect. In a digital, fast-paced world, handcrafted spaces offer a sense of grounding. They tell stories—of hands, heritage, and human effort. For homeowners, this creates a deeper connection to their living spaces. For developers and designers, it offers a way to build homes that feel lived-in from day one, rather than clinically new. Artisanal craftsmanship in real estate and interiors is not a trend driven by nostalgia alone.