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THE PRIDE OF INDIA Part-11 yourplatform
Culture & Heritage
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THE PRIDE OF INDIA Part-11

0 With its stunning architecture, historical monuments, and spiritual sites, India is a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top destinations in India with historical significance that will leave you amazed GATEWAY OF INDIA: This magnificent historical monument stands tall and proud, right at the edge of the Arabian Sea, and is a symbol of India’s rich cultural heritage. The Gateway of India is a prime tourist attraction and an iconic landmark that witnesses thousands of eager visitors every day. It was built in 1924 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Mumbai and was the first thing they saw when they arrived in the city. It is also known for being the spot where British soldiers marched out of India, marking the end of British rule in 1948. The architecture of Gateway of India is remarkable. It boasts of Hindu and Muslim architectural styles, which blend in beautifully with each other. The grand archway is a mixture of Islamic and Renaissance styles, and the pillars are built in the classic Hindu style. The Gateway of India stands tall as a perfect example of India’s diverse culture and architecture. The Gateway of India offers an excellent view of the Arabian Sea. You can take a boat ride to thenearby Elephanta Caves, or simply sit back and enjoy the stunning view of the sea. The Gateway of India is surrounded by many other historical monuments and museums, making it a perfect spot for tourists. GOLDEN TEMPLE: This iconic temple in Amritsar is a significant spiritual center, attracting millions of visitors every year, making it one of the most visited tourist destinations in the country. The Golden Temple is also known as Harmandir Sahib, which means “the abode of God.” The temple amazes visitors with its stunning architecture, shimmering golden dome, and sacred lake that surrounds the temple. You cannot miss the peaceful ambience that surrounds the temple. It represents the unity of different communities and religions, as people of any faith are welcome to visit and explore the temple’s beauty. Visitors can take a stroll around the temple complex, savouring the mouth-watering dishes served at the langar, the community kitchen where everyone is given free food, irrespective of their religion. Don’t miss the opportunity to participate in the seva (voluntary service) that involves helping prepare meals, clean, or serve food to devotees. HUMAYUNs TOMB: Located in the heart of the city, this beautiful structure is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture and one of the most photographed monuments in India. It is the firstgarden tomb on the Indian subcontinent and was built in 1569 AD by Emperor Humayun’s widow, Hamida Banu Begum. The tomb is also the final resting place of several members of the royal family. Apart from its historical significance, Humayun’s Tomb is a magnificent sight to behold. The red sandstone and white marble structure is adorned with intricate carvings, and the symmetrical gardens surrounding the tomb are a perfect example of the Mughal style of landscaping. Visitors to Humayun’s Tomb can also explore the numerous other tombs and monuments in the complex, including the tombs of Isa Khan Niazi, Bu Halima, and Barber’s Tomb. The complex also houses a small museum that showcases Mughal artefacts and excavated objects

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MASTER YOUR SLEEP LIKE A PRO! yourplatform
Health & Wellness
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MASTER YOUR SLEEP LIKE A PRO!

0 Counting sheep for sleep? Here are some tips to your rescue TExT: ERIK JAN MIDDELHOVEN, HOME FURNISHING & RETAIL DESIGN MANAGER, IKEA sleep is an essential part of our lives, as it is for both our physical and mental well-being. While we sleep, our bodies repair and replace cells, and our brains organise memories and information. According to a survey conducted by the community-based social media platform LocalCircles on the average amount of uninterrupted sleep people get each night, 43% of 13,438 respondents reported getting six to eight hours of sleep, 34% received four to six hours, 21% received four hours, and 2% managed to get eight to ten hours. Adults require seven to nine hours of sleep per night, yet many people fail to obtain adequate sleep owing to stress, anxiety, or a poor sleeping environment. Sleep deprivation can lead to a range of health issues, including insomnia, depression, high blood pressure, diabetes, and stroke. Insomnia, the most common problem causedby a lack of sleep, can be caused by an inconsistent bedtime schedule, stimulating activities before bed, an uncomfortable sleeping environment, and using your bed for work, eating, or watching TV. There are certain factors that are under our control and impact our sleep, such as the mattress, light, pillow, or bedsheets. Here are a few products that can help you sleep better and improve your sleep pattern Choose the right mattress: A good mattress will give you, a supportive and comfortable resting surface, allowing you to fall asleep faster and remain asleep longer. You’ll feel rested and revitalised when you wake up. When your body is correctly supported, it allows your muscles to relax and your spine to rest in a natural position, reducing discomfort and agony. When choosing a mattress, there are various aspects to consider, including size, firmness, and material. Spring mattresses: We get the best night’s sleep on a spring mattress. A sprung or pocket-sprung mattress provides tremendous support to our back and distributes our body weight. Foam mattresses: Memory foam mattresses use our body heat to soften and mould to your shape. After you wake up, this memory foam regains its original shape. A good pillow to sleep on: We use pillows to support the head and neck while sleeping. This support is essential for maintaining proper spinal alignment, which helps prevent aches and pains in the neck, shoulders, and back. A good pillow can also help reduce snoring and improve breathing by keeping the airways open. Ergonomic pillows: Regardless of the way we sleep,these pillows give the right support to our head and neck and provide the rest we need every night. Cover with comfortable bedsheets: Bedsheets are an important factor in achieving a comfortable and restful sleep, and choosing the right ones can make a significant difference in the quality of your sleep. Cotton: The soft and smooth fabric of cotton helps people sleep comfortably and allows for easy breathing. In fact, it helps with insomnia. The majority of cotton materials are natural and chemical-free, which is good for people with sensitive skin. It helps reduce irritation while sleeping and improves our sleep. Linen: The natural moisturiser and wicking ability of linen sheets offer better breathability and a night of very good sleep. Bamboo: This natural fabric provides a cool and comfortable sleep. Silk: Silk sheets are soft, smooth, antimicrobial, and hypoallergenic, which gives them a feather touch to our skin and results in a calm sleep. Block or welcome the light with quality curtains: The most significant external component influencing sleep is light. While most people intuitively realise that sleeping in the dark is easier, the connection between light and sleep is far deeper. Waking up to harsh sunlight might make your mornings miserable; moreover, curtains and blinds control the amount of light that enters the room. Room-darkening curtains are an excellent tool for controlling the quantity of light that enters our room. This is good for individuals who sleep during the day or who are having an afternoon nap. Sleeping in a darker environment has been proven to aid in deeper and more restful sleep. Panel curtains also work well for blocking the sunlight coming into the room. On the lights for better sleep: Many centuries ago, our human body followed the Circadian Rhythm during a 24-hour day followed by the sun. This process happens naturally. Our brain follows this rhythm in order to get up and fall asleep. We need to find a solution to lead a healthier and more balanced life in this era of artificial lighting. Red or amber table lamp: Placing a red or amber table lamp has been proven to help us get better and deeper sleep. Red and amber are warm and relaxing hues that enhance melatonin production by activating the light spectrum. Since red light has a lower colour temperature than natural sunlight, it is great for sleep.Our everyday lives depend heavily on sleep, and the amount of sleep we get the night before can influence how we feel today. By picking the right home decor, we can make sure we get the rest we need. The type of mattress and pillows we use, as well as the colour scheme of our bedroom, may have an effect on how well we sleep. By paying attention to the little things and making some conscious choices, we may create an appealing pleasant environment that promotes sound sleep and improves our general well-being.

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A quick guide to help and understand the importance of mental health and mental well-being yourplatform
Health & Wellness
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MENTAL WELL-BEING:

0 A quick guide to help and understand the importance of mental health and mental well-being Mental well-being is a state of mental health that enables individuals to handle stressors, reach their full potential, function effectively at work and in education, and contribute to their communities. It is a critical component of overall health and wellness that supports our ability to make decisions, establish relationships, and impact the world around us. Access to mental health is a fundamental human right and is crucial for personal, communal, and socioeconomic growth. Mental wellness involves more than just the absence of mental illness and varies in difficulty and impact for each individual. Mental health conditions encompass a range of psychosocial deficiencies, mental disorders, and other mental states that may cause significant harm, functional limitations, or self-harm risk. While not always the case, individuals with mental illnesses may have lower levels of mental well-being. Well-being refers to individuals’ perception of their lives going well. It is a desirable outcome that benefits both individuals and multiple aspects of society. A good home is a crucial aspect of overall well- being. Consequently, it is important to monitor these conditions for the sake of public policy. However, many indicators that evaluate living conditions do not fully capture people’s perceptions and feelings. This includes the quality of their relationships, their ability to bounce back from adversity, their overall positive emotions, their potential for growth and fulfilment, and their general sense of well-being. Global assessments of life satisfaction and diverse emotions, ranging from positive experiences like pleasure to negative ones like sadness, are often integrated into assessing well-being. Here are four overall health suggestions. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help from professionals if you need further support. Seeking help is a reasonable and courageous decision. Be kind to yourself: When one is experiencing depression, it can be easy to criticize oneself. However, it is important to try and show self-compassion, even when feeling unwilling to offer oneself praise or recognition. Additionally,a helpful tip is to exhibit kindness towards another individual if having difficulty being kind towards oneself. Once accomplishing this, take the opportunity to congratulate yourself. Exercise regularly: Taking a short walk or walking up a flight of stairs can alleviate stress and enhance concentration. Consistent exercise has the potential to uplift one’s mood, increase mental acuity, and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Follow a healthy diet: Healthy food definitely includes fruits and vegetables, but remember to prioritize drinking at least 10 cupsof water per day over any excessive consumption. Additionally, having a positive relationship with food is key to a healthy diet. Explore new cuisines, cherish meals with loved ones, and avoid developing an obsession with food. It’s important to educate yourself on eating disorders and seek help if you notice that your relationship with food is negatively affecting your mental or physical health. Create/Find a support system: If you or someone you know is facing difficulties, it is essential to find the necessary support. You could turn to a friend or a family member for help. Alternatively, seek guidance from a primary care physician, counsellor, or mental health specialist. If the person you approach isn’t providing the required support, explore alternative sources that better fit your needs.Furthermore, consider ways to be supportive and kind if you know someone facing depression. Our mental health and well-being are crucial to our overall health and quality of life. Just as we focus on physical exercise and a healthy diet for our bodies, we must prioritize self-care and mental wellness practices for our minds. This includes seeking professional help, practising mindfulness and stress-reducing activities, fostering positive relationships, and engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfilment. By prioritizing our mental health, we can enhance resilience, productivity, and our overall sense of purpose in life. Remember, taking care of our minds is not a luxury but a necessity for a fulfilling and balanced life.

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SMALL MOVES BIG IMPACT A brief look at how start-ups are disrupting the traditional F&B yourplatform
Food
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SMALL MOVES BIG IMPACT

0 A brief look at how start-ups are disrupting the traditional F&B landscape Startups have been disrupting traditional business models across various industries, and the food and beverage (F&B) landscape is no exception. With the advent of technology, startups have been able to leverage innovation and create new business models that challenge the status quo. The only choice was to evolve with the times, and this is where technology came into the picture. Tech tools allow business owners to stay connected with their consumers, meet their demands, and ensure business continuity. A recent report by Research and Markets says that the Indian food tech sector would expand at a CAGR of39% between 2021 and 2025 and reach Rs 1,868 billion by2025. One of the most significant disruptions in the F&B landscape has been the growth of online ordering and delivery platforms. Startups such as Zomato, Swiggy, and Uber Eats have transformed the way people order food, making it easier and more convenient than ever before. With the rise of smartphone use and the increasing popularity of food delivery, these platforms have become an essential part of the F&B industry. The Indian food industry is one of the largest in the world, with a vast range of cuisines and food cultures. Despite this diversity, the industry has remained relatively traditional, with many restaurants and food establishments operating in the same way for decades. However, in recent years, a new breed of tech-driven startups has emerged, disrupting the traditional food and beverage landscape and bringing new innovations to the industry. In this article, we will explore some of the ways that these startups are using technology to revolutionize the Indian food industry. Online Ordering and Delivery Platforms: One of the most significant changes in the Indian food industry has been the growth of online ordering and delivery platforms. These platforms, such as Zomato, Swiggy, and Uber Eats, have transformed the way people order food, making it easier and more convenient than ever before. With the rise of smartphone use and the increasing popularity of food delivery, these platforms have become an essential part of the Indian food industry. One of the key advantages of these platforms is the ability to provide real-time information on food availability, delivery time, and price. This information is essential for customers, as it allows them to make informed decisions about their orders. Additionally,these platforms provide valuable data to restaurants and food establishments, allowing them to track their sales, customer preferences, and other metrics. Cloud Kitchens: Another significant innovation in the Indian food industry is the rise of cloud kitchens. Cloud kitchens, also known as dark kitchens, are delivery-only restaurants that operate from a single location. These kitchens are designed to be more efficient and cost-effective than traditional restaurants, as they do not require a physical storefront or dining space. Instead, they focus solely on food preparation and delivery. One of the key advantages of cloud kitchens is their ability to serve multiple brands or cuisines from a single location. This allows startups to experiment with new concepts and menus without the significant upfront costs of opening a traditional restaurant. Additionally, cloud kitchens can operate in areas with high demand but limited space, allowing them to reach a wider audience than traditional restaurants. Themed Restaurants Using AI: Another exciting innovation in the Indian food industry is the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in themed restaurants. These restaurants use AI-powered technologies to create immersive dining experiences, allowing customers to feel like they are in a different world while enjoying their meals. For example, some restaurants use augmented reality (AR) to create virtual environments that customers can interact with. These environments may include digital projections of animals, landscapes, or other elements that complement the restaurant’s theme. Additionally, some restaurants use AI to personalize the dining experience like food that comes on toy trains via tracks lined on Tables or such as by recommending dishes based on customer preferences or using facial recognition to greet customers by name. The Indian food industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by technology and innovation. Startups are disrupting the traditional food and beverage landscape, using online ordering and delivery platforms, cloud kitchens, and AI-powered technologies to create new and exciting dining experiences. As these innovations continue to evolve, we can expect to see even more changes in the years to come. The future of the Indian food industry is bright, and we can’t wait to see what’s next.

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SCALING NEW HEIGHTS yourplatform
Travel
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SCALING NEW HEIGHTS

0 This month we caught up with Rajasekar Pachai (a.k.a Kutti) who recently became the first person from Tamil Nadu to conquer the mighty Mount Everest Have you ever wondered what it feels like to be the first person from Tamil Nadu to raise a flag atop Mount Everest? Well, Kutti can tell you, as he recently returned from trekking the highest point on earth – 29,000 feet above sea level. This trek is considered one of the most magnificent on earth and has enchanted hundreds of mountaineers from all corners of the world, and Kutti was lucky enough to be one of them. Rajasekar Pachai, also known as Kutti, grew up in a small fishing village in Tamil Nadu. This year, at the age of 27, Kutti achieved his dream of climbing Mount Everest and planted his flag at the peak. He trained for a year, trekking six mountains and preparing himself both physically and mentally for the gruelling climb. To acclimatize himself to the harsh weather conditions, he spent months in Manali, Shillong, and Nepal. On April 13, 2023, Kutti left the base camp and finally reached the summit of the world’s highest peak at 5:30 am on May 19th by climbing 8850 meters. Doing this trek needs a lot of planning, preparation, equipment, and tough training. Kutti’s successful journey was supported by KYN Powered by PRO. So there’s this new platform called KYN that’s all about bringing people together in their local communities. It helps encourage everyone to have a voice and get involved in making their community better. There’s more info coming soon, so stay tuned! I first encountered Kutty in May 2022. Veera and Navi agreed to my proposal to coach him, so he could climb Everest in May 2023. We planned to hone his mountaineering and climbing skills, have him practice climbing, and finally, help him summit. I remember when I first met him, I told him that climbing to the summit would be both mentally and physically challenging. I encouraged him, telling him that he had the heart and determination to conquer it. Seeing how eager and fit he was gave him an advantage right from the start. First, I met with him to discuss training and continued to keep an eye on his progress. To improve his workouts for mountain climbing, I provided him with a high-altitude training mask. Working together, we were both highly motivated to help him achieve his goal even though he lacked mountaineering experience. Back in August, I sent him to Manali to learn some basic mountaineering skills. Surprisingly, he excelled in his training and jumped straight into the advancedskills training soon after. The initial training took around 15 days and following that, we took him on an 8-day expedition to climb Yunam Peak, which stands at 6122m. And the best part? He managed to conquer it with ease! It’s obvious that he was physically up for the challenge, but what really proved difficult was finding ways to pass the lonely hours waiting in the tent for the weather to improve or just to make it through the freezing nights. This was his first time being alone for such an extended period, and it was really starting to affect him mentally. We found a crucial point and Veera sought professional help to improve his mental state. This proved beneficial for him. Afterwards, Veera embarked on his toughest endeavour yet – climbing three peaks in Nepal’s Everest region to acclimate himself to the challenging terrain and conditions. He spent more than a month there in October and November, successfully completing his climbs which included Imja Tse (6,165m) and Kyajori Ri (6,200m) So, the first idea was to go up Chulu West – a 6400m mountain in the Annapurna Ranges. However, we realized that he needed more experience walking in his snow boots, so we decided to switch things up. Instead, we tackled Mera Peak – a 6500m peak in the Everest region with a tough, snowy climb. I was convinced he’d succeed in climbing Everest in Apr/May after he finished those 3 peaks in excellent time. In February, we sent him to Solang, Himachal for Ice climbing and winter training to improve his technical skills and help him acclimate to the freezing climate. This lasted for approximately 10 days. His attitude towardsthe mountains shifted, and his determination to reach the summit of Everest grew stronger. All we required was a bit of luck with his health and the weather to make certain he achieves his goal. We were fortunate enough to have him join the Elite Expeditions climbing team led by the legendary mountain climber, Nirmal Purja. His personal Sherpa for the climb is Lakpa, who has conquered Everest eight times himself. Lakpa has completed numerous rotations up Everest to Camps 1, 2, and 3, as well as climbed Lobuche peak – a 6119m climb that all Everest summiteers use as practice before attempting the big climb. Moreover, he is currently stationed at the base camp and is eagerly waiting for the final call-up when the climbing window opens up to finish his story!

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THE PRIDE OF INDIA yourplatform
Culture & Heritage
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THE PRIDE OF INDIA Part-1

0 With its stunning architecture, historical monuments, and spiritual sites, India is a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top destinations in India with historical significance that will leave you amazed India has an extensive and rich historical past that is visible in its stunning architectural masterpieces, monuments, and temples. Tourists flock to India from all over the world to witness firsthand the enduring legacy of its rich heritage. India is acountry of rich cultural and historical heritage, and it has a plethora of travel destinations that are essential to understand the nation’s history and tradition. Here’s our list of some of the must-visit historical places in India. TAj MAHAL: Located in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, the Taj Mahal is a must-visit destination for every traveller. This mesmerizing marble mausoleum is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visiting the Taj Mahal is an unmatched experience that will leave you spellbound. The intricate carvings, the intricate designs, and the flawless symmetry of the monument are awe-inspiring. The mesmerizing view of the Taj Mahal at sunrise or sunset is truly unforgettable. The Taj Mahal stands as a testimony to the love between Shah Jahan and his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. This spectacular monument was built as a symbol of the love they shared. The story behind the Taj Mahal is fascinating and adds to the charm of this magnificent masterpiece. In addition to the Taj Mahal, Agra, the city where the monument is located, is home to several other historical landmarks such as Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. These sites offer a glimpse into India’s rich cultural heritage. AMER FORT: Located in the city of Jaipur in Rajasthan, India, Amer Fort is a must-visit destination for any traveller looking to explore history and architecture. Built-in the 16th century by Maharaja Man Singh, the fort is an exquisite fusion of Rajput and Mughal architecture. A guided tour of the palace will transport you back in time, and help you learn a thing or two about the lives of the Rajput kings who once ruled from this palace. The fort is also home to several museums that showcase the region’s history and heritage, including the Royal Palace Museum, Sheesh Mahal, and Sukh Niwas.The fort complex is spread over four levels, and you can climb to the top to enjoy panoramic views of the Aravalli Range and Maotha Lake. The views areparticularly stunning at sunrise and sunset. The fort is a testament to the skill of Rajput and Mughal artisans. The intricate carvings, paintings, and frescoes adorning the walls and ceilings are truly remarkable. It’s impossible not to be awed by the craftsmanship on display. CHOLA TEMPLEs: The Chola temples in Tamil Nadu were built during the Chola dynasty around the 9th to the 13th century, which is considered the golden period of South Indian history. They are known for their unique style, intricate carvings, and grandeur. One of the most famous Chola temples is the Brihadeeswara Temple, also known as the Big Temple. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has a towering vimana (tower) that is over 200 feet tall. This vimana is made out of a single piece of granite and weighs over 80 tons. The temple’s architecture is a testament to the Chola’s mastery of engineering and design. Another notable Chola temple is the Airavateswara Temple, which is known for its finely carved sculptures and stunning frescoes. The temple complex also includes a mandapa (hall) with intricately carved pillars and a beautiful courtyard. Visiting these temples not only offers a chance to marvel at ancient Indian architecture but also provides insight into the religious and cultural practices of the Chola dynasty.

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This garden is the new pride of Udagamandalam Railway Station making it a must-visit in Ooty. yourplatform
Travel
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FRUITS OF LABOUR

0 This garden is the new pride of Udagamandalam Railway Station making it a must-visit in Ooty. The Udagamandalam Railway Station’s Garden was named as the Best Maintained Garden in the ‘Medium Public Garden’ category. The Department of Horticulture, Govt. of Tamil Nadu, gave a Rolling Cup on May 23, 2023, to celebrate this achievement during the 125th Annual Flower Show at the Government Botanical Garden, Ooty. The Rolling Cup was given by Thiru K. Ramachandran, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Govt. of Tamil Nadu and received by Thiru P. Subramanian, Assistant Director, Nilgiri Mountain Railway and Thiru A. Sivalingam, Sr.Section Engineer / Works. The presentation happened with the presence of the District Collector, Divisional Forest Officer, and other dignitaries. The garden has beautifully maintained lawns and bright flowers, making it a great attraction for tourists who visit Udagamandalam Hill station. The Udagamandalam railway station is part of the famous and UNESCO World Heritage Site Nilgiri Mountain Railway.

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Flooring Trends 2023: Get Ready to Be Floored by the Latest Innovations and Styles! yourplatform
Trends
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Flooring Trends 2023: Get Ready to Be Floored by the Latest Innovations and Styles!

0 In 2023, like in the earlier years change in the tile industry will be a constant. The market’s diversity allows for a lot of variety, and thus consumer preferences are forever evolving. Customers are continuously searching for products that are bothin trend and unique in their own way. At Orientbell Tiles, we are constantly seeking out ways to stand apart from the competition while delivering client satisfaction. The major innovations and lifestyle changes expected in 2023 include: Wooden tiles: Wooden tiles have been popular for a while and are gaining more acceptance for bedrooms & study rooms. Wooden tiles are a great option. These tiles are available in a variety of “woods,” including birch, oak, poplar, teak, etc. Dark and light tiles with delicate veining: There is an increasing preference for having light and dark tiles with similar veining. The similarity of veins gives continuity whereas the contrast in colours allows playfulness in design, as customers seek to create stories by blending tile designs into one another. Interesting and unique patterns can be created by combining colourful highlighters with tiles in lighter and darker shades. Advances in digital printing are creating tactile 3D surfaces with glazes in relief. Flower power: In most occurrences, old trends keep resurfacing after a while, therefore patterns are constantly evolving along with trends. Just like that, florals are a further 70s retro trend that is reappearing. However, this time with a novel twist, it’s more about the use of flowers in softer, more neutral tones. There are also floral tiles with a 3-D look to give the space a more contemporary feel. Regal onyx: Onyx tiles replicate the enigmatic appearance of the natural stone. These stones offer a sense of grandeur to the space and are available in a variety of colours, including white, grey, brown, blue, and beige. The best thing about onyx tiles is that they are easier to install and require less maintenance than natural onyx stone because they come in manageable sizes rather than enormous blocks. Retro terrazzo: Terrazzo is steadily regaining popularity as a result of its variety of colours while still being sober. These tiles can be used indoors or outdoors and are appropriate for cheering up both residential and commercial areas.

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