If you yearn for a simple, balanced style that takes its cues from nature, you may look want to consider Asian style decorating for inspiration. Taking its cues from Japan, China, Korea, Thailand, Bali, and other Eastern cultures, Asian style embodies an elegant look with fine craftsmanship and one that is often balanced with natural elements like stone, wood, paper, water, and plants, promoting tranquillity and peacefulness in its surroundings. It’s no wonder that in our fast-paced world, this style is becoming more and more popular in Western homes.
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Whether you want to encompass this worldly style in its entirely or simply want to add a dash of a singular far East country’s culture to your home, there are certain key elements that are intrinsic to the design that you’ll want to keep in mind.
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The first is colour. The look is generally neutral with tans, grey, brown, and gold with one colour normally predominating – red, which is believed to bring good luck. Depending upon the culture, you may also see sacred animals depicted in the design – elephants, symbolising strength, loyalty, and good luck as well as statues of deities like Buddha.
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Texture is your next port of call. Natural and dark stained wood are popular as is highly lacquered furniture. Add to this Shoji room dividers, bamboo mats, rice paper, rock gardens, and water features.
Plants are also an important element in Asian style. Adding Bamboo or bonsai trees are a great way of adopting this look.
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For your wall decor, consider hand-painted Chinese silk panels. The look is subtly extravagant but creates instant wow-factor.
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For a simpler look, consider Japanese Noren panels which are normally used as room dividers but also make for beautiful wall art. The one thing you need to keep in mind to really get the Asian look in your home is the importance of restraint. Filling a room with Asian-influenced design elements from all different cultures in the East can quickly go from Zen-like space to an Asian shrine!
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A few carefully chosen elements will go a long way in creating a calm, serene environment that you are seeking.
Here at Oak Furnitureland, we have a number of pieces that would fit in well with an Asian-inspired design. Our Copenhagen ranges are perfect for a touch of Asian-inspired design at an affordable price.
What do you think of the Asian style? Is this a look that you have in your own home? Do let us know, we’d love to hear from you!
