Founded in 1999 by Divya Thakur, Design Temple is a major force in contemporary design in India today, focusing on home accessories but also branching out into graphic art, publication design, fashion, interiors and artistic collaborations. Their products are characterized by a clever wit, a social consciousness, a heightened awareness of symbology, and impeccable craftsmanship.

For Nature Morte’s gallery space at the Oberoi Gurgaon, Design Temple has focused on a group of products that reinterprets the traditional yet syncretic beliefs, practices and attitudes that revolve around gender, sexuality and spirituality in India. “Sense and Sensuality” builds a visual narrative by using design objects that inform our contemporary way of life.

The foundation is laid with a group of wool pile carpets from the “Floored!” series, replicating geometric patterns found in domestic and sacred architectural spaces. Arranged with these are the puzzle-like constructions entitled “Indian Order.” This modular system, inspired by pillars found in temples and mosques, allows for multiple functions through limitless combinations. Here, they will be further activated by the addition of Design Temple’s “Lingam Candles.” Completing the display will be selections of limited edition prints from two collections (“Erogenius" and “Animania”) as well as the “Peacock Mirror,” a tribute to Narcissism.

In 2011, Design Temple was invited to participate in Wallpaper Magazine’s exhibition Handmade* at the Salone del Mobile in Milan. In 2007, Divya Thakur was commissioned by the Victoria and Albert Museum, London to curate a graphic representation of contemporary India. Ms. Thakur has also showcased the unorganized design sector with an exhibition entitled Indigenous India in 2004 at the Loggia dei Mercanti in Milan. Design Temple products can be found in their dedicated retail outlet in the Colaba neighborhood of Mumbai as well as lifestyle boutiques across India.

Image: © Design Temple, Nature Morte