Hi Ravi. We would need more information about what you like (more pics in your idea books would help) to be specific, but I think the key to the palatial look is rich, varied texture and light reflections. Think of velvet cushions, silky curtains, a deep-pile rug (not shag) with a sheen. Where I am, in South Africa. Plascon has a wonderful suede paint which could bring deep, luxurious feeling to the walls. Some wallpapers can do the same thing. Be judicious with ornate features and such things as gilding, but by all means use them. I wouldn't go overboard on gilded furniture, but a single chair with restrained gilding might be lovely, or a gilded lamp. Cut-glass vases placed to catch the light from the windows. And I wouldn't choose more than one big ornate item. You might start with a traditional rug or a big tapestry. Not both. Another really important aspect is the effect of the lighting in the evening -- and I think you could certainly consider a smallish chandelier. But the starting point is to search Houzz and Google images for rooms that have the feeling you like, and then try to work out what you like about them. Then perhaps post another dilemma as you get to the point where you can tell us more but want advice on specific things.

Personally, I would also steer clear of pink. The latest Disney Princesses have been all about the blue, green etc etc. (and I rather like the yellow!) One of the most cost effective solutions is to make a virtue of the existing colour scheme by getting some woodland decals and a couple of small fairies (think: Sleeping Beauty in the woods) for the walls and wardrobe - easy to place and reposition, and easy to remove if you want to change the theme at a later date. See if you can find a big decal that looks like a picture frame, too, and put that on the mirror in the wash area (think: magic mirror!) Some sort of drapery, above the bed is always good. If you're concerned about installing a full corona on the ceiling, you can mount a curtain rail above the bed (don't forget to buy one with crystal sparkly finials!) and hang a set of long voile curtains for a similar effect! I would then advocate sparkly crystal curtain tie backs - they're cheap, cheerful and can be swapped out when the colour begins to bore. Finally, swap out all the drawer pulls and knobs with something glam and crystal-ly in style. Assuming your daughter is quite young, I would say err on the side of shiny bling, and she'll love them! All of these options are pretty simple to do, not too expensive and easy to reverse or change as she grows up!

I moved to India in 2008 and had to relearn how to store food safely. These airtight plastic containers keep insects and humidity (mould/fungus) out of my dhals and spices. India cooking requires larger spice containers than shown in the above pictures. You can also get this same type of container in smaller sizes. Nice to have all of them in the same colour!! Makes the cupboard look tidy.

Thanks Vasundhara. I shall definitely do that. Houzz is such great place to have these conversations. It's like my best friend for home decor. I lose track of time browsing all the amazing work you guys showcase from around the world. So much talent !