DP Curates: 5 Artisanal Board Games That Turn Summer Downtime Into A Collectable Affair

When the weather app starts throwing around phrases like “feels like 47°C” and the steering wheel is hot enough to fry an egg, you know summer’s gone rogue. Errands, brunch plans, and sunset walks are all politely cancelled. The only logical plan is to stay in, stay cool and stay entertained. But staying indoors doesn’t have to mean scrolling endlessly or binge-watching the same shows. Instead, why not liven up the indoors with newfangled games designed to ignite your imagination and turn ordinary afternoons into laughter-filled moments? We’re talking carrom board crafted like art, a chess set with architectural flair, and a backgammon so chic it could double as decor. Boredom doesn’t stand a chance when these thoughtfully designed indoor games come to the rescue. We’ve rounded up five design-forward picks that promise all the joy of play, minus the heatstroke.

1. Handcrafted Snakes And Ladders By The Leather Garden

This summer, roll the dice on style and nostalgia with The Leather Garden’s ‘Handcrafted Snakes and Ladders’, a luxurious take on the traditional board game. Designed by Neeharika Leekha Wadhwa, this portable piece of leisure features finely stitched leather serpents and ladders, with every edge finished with precision. The conical playing pieces are also crafted in leather. Every stitch and colour choice speaks of timeless craftsmanship and visual elegance. This cleverly designed game rolls up neatly and zips shut, making it perfect for travel or tucking into a weekender bag. Whether you’re on a staycation, a breezy getaway, or looking for a nostalgic gift, take the fun with you, wherever you go.

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2. Kirwani Carrom Board By SHED

On a sweltering summer afternoon, the best kind of play happens indoors with a cold beverage in one hand and the ‘Kirwani Carrom Board’ in front of you. Designed by Priyanka Shah and Kush Jariwala of SHED, this custom-made board is an exploration of marble inlays, where sculptural animal figurines replace the usual shooting lines. The design brings together a rich palette of indigenous Indian stones, some of which are semi-precious, carefully selected for their colour and texture. It is then framed in a mix of Saag and Sheesham wood, finished with natural pigments and indigo-dyed threads that lend an earthy vibrancy to the final piece. Completing the set are handcrafted counters drawn from essential Indian botanicals. Finished using waterjet cutting and sandblasting techniques, Kirwani is a novel wall-worthy piece, and perfect for bonding with friends and family.

3. Arena – The Game Of Chess By Material Immaterial Studio

To escape the scorching heat outside, ‘Arena’ by Material Immaterial Studio offers the perfect dose of indoor entertainment. The design of the chessboard is inspired by the architecture of Roman amphitheatres, where spectators would gather to watch the clash between the gladiators. The chessmen don architectural armour, each representing their position in the army. Crafted from pigmented and grey concrete, its base is cast exceptionally thin to achieve a refined, lightweight form. It is intriguing to strategically place the arena near a window. As daylight shifts, the shadow of each sculptural piece moves across the board, creating dramatic silhouettes. Its packaging with custom-cut slots and sculptural detailing makes unboxing feel like unveiling an architectural artefact.

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4. Handcrafted Ludo Game By The Leather Garden

If you’re planning to dodge the sun and dreaming of mountain air, carry The Leather Garden’s ‘Handcrafted Ludo Game’ along as it slips effortlessly into your travel bag. Designed by Neeharika Leekha Wadhwa, this travel-friendly game is a tactile delight crafted in buttery leather with impeccable stitching details and rich hues of ochre, forest green, navy and cocoa. With precisely finished leather cones of each house, the entire board zips up neatly into a cylindrical case. An ode to high-quality craftsmanship, this game of chance, laughter and harmless revenge will rule your summer vacations for generations.

5. Tino Backgammon Game By Taamaa

With its ombré indigo gradients and bold Japanese motifs, the ‘Tino Backgammon Game’ by Taamaa makes staying at home fun, especially during summer. A quiet nod to childhood game nights, this set reimagines a classic through the lens of design, culture and sustainability. Crafted from eco-leather and responsibly sourced wood, this foldable piece transitions from a functional board game to a versatile coffee table accent. The nickel and brass-finished counters, along with the Sumi-e-inspired patterns, bring a tactile contrast to the smoothness of the board. Available in fiery tones of orange and nude, it’s the perfect antidote to boredom.

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