Have you travelled to Asia, and been taken with the sights, sounds and atmosphere? Or is it somewhere on your list of places to visit before you die?
If you love all things Asian, then consider recreating the unique, colourful, laid back, Asian atmosphere, in the comfort of your own home - no need to travel unless you want to...!
Asian decorating styles cover a huge range of interior design looks. Asia is a massive continent, including oriental countries such as China and Japan, as well as India and countries like Sri Lanka, Nepal, Malaysia and Indonesia. So, you see, there is plenty of inspiration and variety for your Asian decorating style.
Widely speaking, Asian decorating can be divided into several distinct styles - a calm, zen-like Japanese look, colourful, Chinese oriental designs and Indian interior design styles.
You don't even need to get as specific as that even - a really good look to go for is a more general 'Asian' look - taking inspiration from a variety of countries and styles, as the fancy takes you.
This approach is really great if you are a keen traveller - and like to collect souvenirs and original knick-knacks and bargains on your travels. Or maybe you just don't like to tie yourself down too closely to a specific theme, and just enjoy all aspects of the Asian look.
Asian decorating is a great style to go for - it is really relaxed, flexible and allows you to create your own, unique look, based on your personality, likes and interests. Let the Asian decorating style take you exactly where you want to go....
Your exact choices of color, fabrics, furniture and accessories will vary, depending on the style or styles you want to go for ... but these easy guidelines will help you through the basics...
Colors
A pale and neutral wall makes a very good base for any Asian style - you can then add accessories to make the space more personal.
You might choose to paint an accent wall in a stronger color - to make a real statement in your room. For an Indian interior design style, choose hot, spicy colors - reds, oranges, pinks and purples. Red and black will look fantastic in a smart Chinese, oriental room. A Japanese interior decorating style will look very calming in deeper, warm-tone neutrals and greens.
Flooring
Hard wood flooring is a great look for all of these Asian decorating themes. But don't forget to add plenty of gorgeous, soft Indian, Persian and Oriental rugs, to get a really authentic look. Don't be afraid to mix and match styles - it is the perfect way to get your own unique look!
Furniture
It is best to choose quite a plain and simple style of furniture for your Asian decorating look. Try not to mix together styles in this case (furniture is bulky, and too many different pieces and styles will just look a mess - keep the focus on your gorgeous accessories!).
Do try to choose one, or perhaps two, special pieces of furniture, with more striking looks - to keep your Asian decorating theme together.
Asian style furniture is generally a very dark wood. The style is quite simple, solid and rustic - but you may find beautiful carvings, paintings, lacquering or ornate iron work to give the piece added interest.
Fabrics and Accessories
Sumptuous, patterned fabrics are a very important part of your Asian decorating look. Mix and match styles, as you wish (but perhaps try to keep to similar color themes - all reds and oranges, or all greens and blues, for example).
Use fabrics widely in your scheme - as throws, cushions, wall-hangings, curtains and drapes. Indian saris make really beautiful curtains or drapes, so look out for these to use in your makeover plans.
Of course, Asian accessories are a real must for your scheme. The absolute best way of getting your accessories is by picking up lots of gorgeous souvenirs from your travels to India, Japan, China, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, or other Asian countries.
If you aren't lucky enough to have travelled in these areas (...yet!) never fear! There are plenty of import stores and reproductions, where you can find beautiful, Asian inspired accessories at low cost. Don't forget to also check out charity shops, jumble sales, flea markets and eBay to pick up other peoples' Asian treasures at a bargain price.
This is a great look, suitable for any style of home. The look is relaxed and flexible - and you should really be able to make it your own. I hope you have great fun creating your own, unique Asian decorating style, and searching out your own exotic, Asian treasures.
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