There was a time when the Indian drawing room was more than a room for entertaining. It was a reflection of the family that lived within it. A carved wooden chest might have travelled through generations. A pair of intricately crafted chairs could have been commissioned for a particular home. A marble object, antique textile or hand-finished screen might have carried a story of craftsmanship, travel or family history. The room was not assembled around a furniture catalogue. I

When I first moved into my new home, I dreamed of a space that radiated warmth, comfort, and a hint of luxury. After shopping for generic...