The Nod

Remember when a game of carrom could get an entire family involved, with uncles taking their shots a little too seriously, cousins arguing over whose turn it was, and someone being accused of pocketing the queen before they were supposed to? At Shed (@outoftheshed_), a multidisciplinary design studio in Surat, Gujarat, the humble carrom board has received quite the makeover. Featuring intricate marble inlay, hand-finished wooden frames, and elaborate illustrations, these boards look as though they belong in a collector’s home, although they are very much meant to be played with.

Today, between film cameras, vinyl records, and handwritten letters, there is a renewed appreciation for things that don’t require a charger or Wi-Fi connection. Shed, however, has been exploring the pleasures of making, playing, and living with objects long before the analogue revival became a talking point. Founded by Priyanka Shah (@priyankaaa_) in 2014, the studio began in the basement of her family’s factory and has since grown into a design practice spanning furniture, homeware, accessories, games, and toys.

With Diwali parties around the corner, these games would make a welcome and prettier alternative to yet another round of cards. Teen patti enthusiasts might want to take note, especially those who have watched a friendly game spiral into something decidedly less so.

@sheyakurian at the link in bio.