A living room set up with the Gokvalla range. Photos: Ikea Malaysia
With three weeks to go before Hari Raya Aidilfitri, getting the house ready for the celebrations can be an exciting yet taxing affair.
However, with proper planning, you can transform your home into a welcoming space for friends and family.
So what’s the first step?
“Start by identifying the key areas you want to focus on ahead of the festivities. This could be your living room, dining room or entryway. Then, consider the overall ambience you want to create, whether you’re hosting a large crowd or a smaller, more intimate gathering. This will guide your choice of decorations and furniture,” says Ikea Malaysia’s communication & interior design manager Joy Zhou.
Zhou shares three useful tips when it comes to decorating one’s home for Raya.
“Prepare your home like a canvas. Start by organising your space beforehand, which will help you better visualise and plan your Raya decorations. Decluttering is definitely a part of this process!”
Farida table runner from Cuura Space.
The second tip involves organising a gathering space.
“For gatherings, you may want to focus on the living and dining areas. Add comfortable seating, fun table settings and other decorations that create a welcoming atmosphere.”
Thirdly, layer textures and patterns.
“For added depth and flair, combine smooth surfaces like glass vases with textured elements like woven baskets, or add table runners or cushions with different patterns and designs,” said the home furnishing retailer.
Balik kampung placemat by BrownRdDesigns.
3 mistakes to avoid
➤ Playing it safe: Don’t be afraid to personalise your decor. Go big in infusing your unique style to create a space that truly reflects you and your family.
➤ Too much decorating: Be mindful of overcrowding your space with decorations or furniture, as it can make the room feel small and hinder guests’ movement.
➤ Focusing on larger furniture pieces: Simple touches like fresh flowers, festive tablecloths and napkins, or scented candles (with safety in mind) can go a long way in elevating your space.
Gokvalla tealight holder by Ikea.
3 sustainable practices
➤ Embrace natural elements: Incorporate natural elements like fresh flowers, branches and woven baskets. These items are not only beautiful and budget- friendly but also biodegradable.
➤ Invest in quality, reusable items: Instead of buying disposable decor pieces, invest in well-made, functional items such as cushion covers or floor pouffes that can be used year after year and for different occasions.
➤ Upcycle old items: Give new life to old items like bottles, jars or even fabric scraps by turning them into decorative pieces. This reduces waste and adds a unique touch to your space.
“The most important aspect is creating a space that fosters connection and brings joy to you and your loved ones,” adds Zhou.
Here are some of the latest home decor items to help enhance your living space this Raya.
A living room set up with the Gokvalla range. Photos: Ikea Malaysia
Basli cushion from Cuura Space.
Fayruz table runner from Cuura Space.
Lamya table mats from Cuura Space.
Farida table runner from Cuura Space.
Wafiya table mats from Cuura Space.
Lamya table mat from Cuura Space.
Ixiry vase and flowers from Cuura Space.
Lamya table mat from Cuura Space.
Tahira table mats from Cuura Space.
Balik kampung placemat by BrownRdDesigns.
Patterned tile placemat from BrownRdDesigns.
Kuih Raya cushion from BrownRdDesigns.
Mughal court cushions mix from BrownRdDesigns.
Placemat inspired by tiles from BrownRdDesigns.
Green flower on black placemat from BrownRdDesigns.
Tiles-inspired cushions from BrownRdDesigns.
Mughal Court cushion from BrownRdDesigns.
Gokvalla serving bowl with lid by Ikea.
Gokvalla tealight holder by Ikea.
Gokvalla table-runner by Ikea.
Gokvalla lantern for block candle by Ikea.
Gokvalla cushion cover by Ikea.
Gokvalla serving tray by Ikea.
Gokvalla teapot and Kava cups by Ikea.
