Asian-Inspired Decorating

The popularity of Asian-inspired decor is a reflection of the timelessness of the simple lines, elegant colors and exotic beauty of Asian style. The various styles of Asian decor make it suitable for modern apartments and traditional homes alike, broadening its appeal. Incorporating Asian-inspired decor into your home can be as simple as adding decorative touches to your existing design, or going for an entire remodel that adds layers of Asian inspiration from wall colors to furniture. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Choose colors that reflect Asian design. While black, crimson and gold are standbys, and make a dramatic statement in living rooms and dining rooms, consider more Zen-inspired colors in bathrooms, bedrooms and kitchens, incorporating jade green, lavender, pale blue and light yellow.

Use unexpected color combinations that reference Asian culture. Create a kitchen inspired by Chinese pottery by using cobalt blue and white. Bring to mind China's beloved cherry blossoms in a bedroom that uses pink, deep brown and gray.

2

Use furniture that reflects simplicity, Asian style. Geometric lines and delicate, understated pieces with few details are common in Asian decor.

Low-backed sofas and chairs in neutral colors work well in Asian-inspired living rooms. Square or rectangular dining tables with wood seating or upholstered benches or ottomans make a dramatic statement. Platform beds or beds with upholstered headboards bring elegance into the bedroom when used with low beside tables and simple chests and dressers.

Choose furniture in dark, satin-finished wood for a traditionally understated Asian look, or go for a more modern Asian look by selecting lacquered wood, chrome or glass pieces.

3

Add Asian flair to your home without a major remodel by selecting Asian-inspired accessories. While traditional pieces such as jade dragons, gongs and bamboo sculptures will always have a place in Asian decor, less-used accessories such as Chinese watercolor prints, artwork incorporating Chinese or Japanese characters, and Buddhist and Zen statuary can definitely infuse Asian flavor into your home.

Water is an important feature in Asian decor and is often incorporated into the design by the use of indoor fountains, which provide both decorative interest and soothing soundscapes in your room.

Soft, diffused lighting is a hallmark of Asian decor that is sometimes overlooked. Provide Asian-inspired lighting through the use of plenty of candles and accent lighting rather than ambient lighting.