<p>A perfect respite from the sweltering heat and dry weather, the first showers of monsoon bring in a much-needed sense of relief and joy. While the rains are rather romantic and ideal for you to enjoy a piping hot cup of tea with a plate of <i>pakoras</i>, it is also a time when your home battles a gloomy ambience, wet floors, and some musty smells. Given this scenario, it is imperative that you keep your house dry, bright, and smelling good to ward off those dull grey tones and monsoon blues. An airy, vibrant house is not only hygienic but also exudes a whole lot of positive and cheerful vibes.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_TWI_%20Sattva%20House%20Formal%20Living%20Area_%20%C2%A9%20Amit%20Mehra%20-%201_1658145565475.jpg"><figcaption>TWI Sattwa House Formal Living Area ©Amit Mehra</figcaption></figure><h2>Trap the dirt and dampness</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Pic%20credit_Houzeoum_1658145391260.jpg"><figcaption>©Houzeou</figcaption></figure><p>The rainy season is synonymous with wet umbrellas, drenched boots, dirty slippers, and floors replete with mud and dirt. It is key that you make your entryway monsoon friendly by finding ways to keep it clean and dry. “Keeping a clean foyer can be quite a challenge with wet footwear and rainwear; hence it is best to keep a coir mat of your choice at the entry point. It is both functional and aesthetic. Have a large cane basket or a sleek slender vase to store umbrellas. You can even mount a quirky wall hook at the entrance to hang in your drenched coats and caps,” says Ipsita Panda, founder, Houzeoum.  </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_TWI_Casa%20K_%C2%A9Amit%20Mehra%2010_1658145583140.jpg"><figcaption>TWI Casa K ©Amit Mehra</figcaption></figure><p>Recycled rubber mats with funky prints and patterns are also a great way to introduce a dash of colour and quirk to your foyer. “Since the humidity during the monsoon months is high, a dehumidifier is an absolute must to keep the indoor air crisp. Apart from umbrella bins, one can add elements such as awnings and driers at the entrances to keep the interiors neat and dry,” says Apoorva Shroff, founder of Lyth Design. One can also invest in a chic stand or a unit with shelves where one can leave all the wet items in the bottom shelves. The top shelves can be styled with flowers, candles, and even scented potpourri. Place the unit in a well-ventilated corner where damp items can dry and are handy to pick up while stepping out.</p><p>AlsoRead0</p><h2>Style cues</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Bibelot%20by%20Open%20Atelier%20Mumbai%20%C2%A9%20Prashant%20Bhat_1658145379918.jpg"><figcaption>Bibelot By Open Atelier Mumbai ©Prashant Bhat</figcaption></figure><p>Monsoon is a time to put away those heavy furnishings and go in for something light and breezy. “Avoid thick fabrics like velvets and jacquard and opt for light linens, sheers or lace curtains to allow for sunlight to stream in, keeping your space bright and airy. Swap your greys and blues for peppy hues to resist the dull atmosphere at home,” says Rahul Mistri, principal designer at Open Atelier Mumbai. Keep those thick rugs and carpets stashed away to prevent dampness that can lead to a musty odour. Do not forget to keep a freshener with it so that it remains sweet smelling for the next season.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Devika%2020%2011%2007%20%C2%A9%20Noughts%20and%20Crosses%20%20116_1658145339618.jpg"><figcaption>©Noughts and Crosses</figcaption></figure><p>“Bring in fresh fragrances through candles, diffusers, essential oils, and incense sticks. Light up dark corners with soft lights and plants. Invest in suitable table lamps and floor lights to enhance the ambience through mood lighting,” suggests Devika Khosla, creative director, The Works Interiors. Woody scents, frankincense as well as patchouli lend in an earthy fragrance. Pair them with lilies, asters, or chrysanthemums as they make for a great combination. “Use a jute rug or an earth-toned <i>dhurrie</i> in various corners to add warmth and texture. Lamps with linen shades diffuse light beautifully, and can be interspersed at different heights in the living room,” say the team from KAR Conscious Living.  </p><p>AlsoRead1</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Casa%20Bohemia%20by%20Open%20Atelier%20Mumbai%20%C2%A9%20Prashant%20Bhat_1658145501911.jpg"><figcaption>Casa Bohemia by Open Atelier © Prashant Bhat</figcaption></figure><p>And while decorating for the rainy season, do not underestimate the power of green elements. Indoor plants always help induce invigorating vibes. “Plants bring in an atmosphere of freshness and if you have a balcony, it is an apt time to give it a makeover. Use wooden planter shelves, trellis, and macramé hangers to make your balcony look spacious and bright. You can also opt for lanterns, wind chimes, and designer-ceiling lights for a picture-perfect balcony,” says Jitesh Agarwal, CEO of WallMantra. Invest in good quality, water-proof outdoor furniture to enjoy the fresh air and breeze in the balcony or covered terrace. “Rattan, treated cane, wicker, or ornamental wrought iron furniture which is resistant to water and UV rays is ideal for balconies and semi outdoor spaces. They are light and easily portable,” says Sunali Goenka, Founder and CEO, We Create- “Everything Interiors”</p><p>AlsoRead2</p><p>Add in pops of colour using cushions, throw blankets, or even fresh flowers in hues like yellow, terracotta, or olive green. Furnishings with bold prints in the living room and vibrant-coloured sheets instead of whites in the bedroom can add spunk to the entire space.  </p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Pic%20credit_WallMantra%20%282%29_1658145517888.jpg"><figcaption>©Wall Mantra</figcaption></figure><h2>Fixes and repairs</h2><p>Before the advent of the monsoon, it is key to fix cracks and leaks. Pipes need to be cleaned to prevent water logging. Wires and electric connections should be checked especially if they are in a place where rainwater can potentially seep in. Secure window frames, ensure cracks are filled, and adequate waterproofing is done during the dry season before the actual monsoon sets in. Ensure that your furniture is varnished and any paint jobs are completed before the rains kick in in all their glory. </p>

Don’t let the monsoon gloom bring down the vibe of your interiors. Here’s how you can make your home brighter and cosier when it rains. 

How To Keep Your Home Bright And Cosy During The Monsoon |Zee Zest

Monsoon Décor: Keep Your Home Bright And Cosy During The Rain

Home Decor 

Interiors

<p>The prices at Pottery Barn India—yes, they’re here—will make your wallet weep a little. Well to be fair, more than a little. However, the online store will make you want everything – from a tiny faux plant to the gorgeous comforters that will set you back a pretty penny. But it’s also difficult to resist these beauties. </p><p><strong>Zee Zest has put together a list of 10 things you should buy from Pottery Barn right now: </strong></p><figure class="media"><oembed url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CWGHyJBIEkL/"></oembed></figure><h2>1. The frog drum outdoors table</h2><figure class="media"><oembed url="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cft39AcPrVg/"></oembed></figure><p>Inspired by the age-old romance of rain drums, the Frog Drum table is for your outdoors—be it a terrace seating or your garden. It’s made from cast aluminium, and has a traditional patter of the sun, botanical motifs and three frogs as detailing on the top. You can add wrought iron chairs to the setting, add some plants for a touch of green, pour yourself a nice drink and feel posh. Available for Rs 70,000. </p><h2>2. Indoor faux pothos houseplant</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Faux%20potted%20plant_1658753334009.jpg"></figure><p>Love plants but can’t seem to keep them alive? Get these faux plants instead. The plants are made of polyester, but are hand-assembled, and have a durable wire centre. Collect a few and make your own green corner in the house and never worry about watering them again. Available for Rs 3,500.</p><h2>3. Weston frames</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Pottery%20Barn%201_1658753461748.jpg"></figure><p>If your best friend has a birthday coming up and they love showing off their photos, these frames are an adorable gift. The antique design will make almost any photograph look lovely. The frame’s made of iron and comes with either a bronze or nickel finish. There’s also a ring attached to the frame to mount them vertically on the wall. Available for Rs 4,000.</p><h2>4. Votive candleholders</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Modern%20Glass%20Votive%20Candleholders_1658753384938.jpg"></figure><p>These beautiful little votive candleholders come in a range of neutral colours and assorted sizes. Made from mouth-blown glass, each votive adds to the beauty of the corner you put it in. Rs 3,500 (for a set of five small votives.)</p><h2>5. Marble bookends </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_White%20marble%20book%20ends_1658753393550.jpg"></figure><p>If you read a lot and have expensive taste, this set of marble bookends might just be your next favourite thing. Inspired by classical Greek architecture, the fluted column, sliced into half, is crafted from 100 per cent pure marble and comes in a natural tone. It’s quite perfect for your library at work or home. At Rs 8,500 (for the pair).</p><h2>6. Chateau acacia bowl </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Chateau%20acacia%20bowl_1658753308403.jpg"></figure><p>Handcrafted from acacia, the Chateau Wood Serveware Collection was inspired by European antiques and then redone in a more current fashion, to go with a contemporary taste and usage. These salad bowls are perfect for tossing salad and serving them. Made in a Fair-Trade certified factory, it’s one of those kitchen items you might feel proud to own. For Rs 15,000. </p><h2>7. Handcrafted weathered terracotta vases</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Handcrafted%20Weathered%20Terra%20Cotta%20Vases_1658753375458.jpg"></figure><p>Made by hand and painted by hand, these rustic vases will make any plain old table look good. Resembling whitewashed objects found on a seashore, they have a casual coastal appeal and are ideal for showcasing fresh garden cuttings. For Rs 6,000.</p><h2>8. Faux natural fibre trim indoor-outdoor pillows</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Faux%20Natural%20Fiber%20Trim%20Indoor-Outdoor%20Pillows_1658753318704.jpg"></figure><p>Made from 100 per cent polyester and filled with half-and-half virgin and recycled polyester (sourced from single-use plastic bottles no less), these cushions are perfect for any weather. The come in lovely hues and have a bold trim to add some colour to the room. For Rs 3,500.</p><h2>9. Frost marble accessories</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Frost%20Marble%20Accessories_1658753348674.jpg"></figure><p>Handcrafted to exhibit the beautiful veining of the natural white marble, these Frost Marble Accessories elevate your simple bathroom to look like a spa. For Rs 2,500-Rs 3,500 (per piece). </p><h2>10. Hammered glass ice bucket</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Hammered%20Glass%20Ice%20Bucket_1658753360151.jpg"></figure><p>For those who own a full bar at home and cannot wait to show it off, this glass ice bucket is what they also need. Made from recycled glass, it’s got a lovely antique-finish lid and the artisan’s work in the making of this ice bucket lends somewhat of a signature touch. Plus, it looks exclusive. For Rs 7,000.</p><p>All products available on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://potterybarn.in/">potterybarn.in</a></p>

The good news is that Pottery Barn is now in India. The bad news is that it’s expensive. But it also might be worth saving for. 

Here are some of the coolest home décor items we found at the pottery barn online store. Zeezest.com 

10 Things To Buy From Pottery Barn India I Zee Zest 

10 Things We Want From Pottery Barn Right Now 

Pottery Barn

Beautiful Homes

<p>A good quality non-stick pan has the ability to transform your cooking game. Apart from daily sautéing, frying, searing and other cooking techniques, non-stick cooking utensils are also very useful in preparing low-fat meals.</p><p>You can get away with using just a couple of drops of oil, butter or ghee to keep your food from sticking. The reason for this is a black non-stick coating, which is nothing but food-grade high-performance fluoropolymer, known as polytetrafluoroethylene or PTFE. We recognise this coating as Teflon.</p><p>Teflon, however, is a trademarked brand name devised by Chemours, a chemical company previously known as DuPont.</p><p>All of PTFE’s durability apart, non-stick coatings eventually wear off. But you can increase the longevity of your non-stick pan by adopting some simple best practices.</p><h2>1. Season your pan</h2><p>Even though your pans may come with a label stating that no oil or grease is needed, seasoning your pan prevents food from getting stuck to the bottom, especially in the first couple of uses.</p><p>“The first ground rule for using a non-stick pan is to properly season it by applying a thin layer of oil,” explains Vivek Kalia, Executive Chef, Indore Marriott Hotel. Doing so, he adds, helps guarantee no uneven spots on the pan surface, allowing the cookware to perform better and extends its utility time.</p><p>It’s a simple process—add a little oil or ghee, just enough so that it coats the non-stick pan evenly. Wait for the oil to get hot properly, you’ll see it shimmering in the light. Now add your food to the pan. </p><p>AlsoRead0 </p><h2>2. Use them for specific tasks</h2><p>Non-stick pans make cooking a breeze, but these utensils aren’t meant to cook all kind of meals with equal success. “Non-stick pans come in handy when it comes to cooking foods that are delicate or more prone to breaking. Especially for food items that tend to release their own oils and fats while cooking, causing the food to stick to the bottom of the pan,” says chef Kalia. However, when it comes to foods that have a longer cooking duration, your non-stick pan can fail you.</p><p>Refrain from cooking or storing acidic foods such as your tomato-based curries and gravies, since they can quickly wear out your pan’s coating. “You can use your non-stick pan to cook food items such as eggs, fish, dosas, rice noodles, stuffed parathas, bread, vegetable cutlets, and even cheese-based items like quesadilla or any <i>sukhi</i>  (dry) sabji, which consumes a lot of oil,” says chef Kalia. </p><p>Lastly, while some non-stick pans are oven safe, pay attention to the instructions that come in the manual or read the labels carefully.</p><h2>3. Keep sharp objects away</h2><p>Your non-stick pans always need extra TLC. This is, both while cooking, as well as cleaning. Once the non-stick coating gets even a small scratch, your food will start sticking and eventually, the coating will start to peel off,” explains chef Kalia. Therefore, avoid sharp metal utensils that can scratch your non-stick cookware.</p><p>Instead, invest in spatulas and ladles made of wood, rubber or silicone. When cleaning non-stick pots and pans, avoid harsh cleaning detergents and wool, metal or sharp scrapers and pads. They can easily erode the PTFE coating. For everyday cleaning, just use a soft sponge, cloth pad or dishrag with a bar of non-abrasive dish soap or detergent suggests chef Kalia.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Id-1235-cookware-kitchen-DIY-inside-image_1622899192597.jpg"></figure><h2>4. Avoid drastic temperature changes</h2><p>Most non-stick pans come with a heat warning label. That said, cooking on low or medium heat is highly recommended for longer shelf life. Cooking at a high temperature can cause your non-stick pan to warp, affecting the PTFE coating and making it lose some of its non-stick properties. Also, a warped pan doesn't distribute heat evenly which affects the quality of cooking, informs chef Kalia.</p><p>And no matter what, always allow your non-stick pans to cool completely before placing them in the sink or soaking them in some soapy water. Drastic changes in temperature, from hot to cold, can damage your pan’s non-stick coating. </p><p>AlsoRead1 </p><h2>5. Gentle cleaning and safe storage</h2><p>Scrubbing or wiping too hard can ruin your non-stick utensils earlier than you expect. “If the food is really stuck, skip the scrubbing and allow the pan to soak in a lukewarm soapy solution for a while,” suggests chef Kalia.</p><p>It’s important that you clean your pan within an hour or two of cooking; waiting for too long increases the risk of leftover grease finding its ways into the coating of non-stick pans. When done, wipe your utensils with a soft cloth to prevent them from rusting.</p><p>Don't forget that non-stick utensils need gentle handling and storing practices; place some paper towels or napkins in between the utensils to avoid the bottom of another utensil from scratching the surface of others, suggests chef Kalia. This simple practice will help avoid any scratching and chipping.</p><h2>6. Know when to bid farewell</h2><p>The average lifespan of a non-stick pan is around five years, depending on the quality and how you treat them. There are signs indicating the end of your non-stick pans life, keep an eye out for:</p><ul><li>Signs of rust</li><li>Uneven surface</li><li>Peeling of the coating</li><li>Food sticking to the pan</li></ul><p>Any of these signs and it’s retirement time for your non-stick pan</p>

Are you guilty of mistreating your non-stick pans? Help’s here.

Hacks and handy tips from experts on how to take care of your non-stick pots and pans and make them last longer. Read Zeezest.com