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Winner (patio): Shan Bhatnagar DesignsAn eye-catching traditional-style space, this. The built-in benches, the hand-painted table and the wall art liven up the outdoor area.

“This courtyard used to be the most neglected part of the house earlier – we had cordoned it off as a space for hanging clothes. While redecorating the house, however, I decided to give this place an identity of its own,” he says. The benches were created using the surplus malba rubble) lying around outside the house. The centre table shows the influence of Topkapi. The Tree of Life with gopis on either side was especially painted, inspired by the pichwais of Nathdwara “This space gets a lot of natural light and, thanks to the large umbrella here, the courtyard has now become the most used area of the house. In winter it becomes an extension of our dining room,” Bhatnagar says.Check out these courtyards that soak up the sun

5. Splash out with spring coloursSpring is all about colour, the more vibrant it is, the better. Here, many-hued cushions resemble a bed of riotous blooms fit for springtime. The blue-and-white marble inlay coffee table provides relief from the burst of colours. And while you are at it, why not stencil a procession of pretty ladies on the walls.

corner with seats built in - long term seating easy to maintain