Asian Decor Ideas
- Many Asian decor trends feature earth tones and natural finishes. Wood floors in dark stains create a dramatic statement, and walls in creamy antique white, pale beige or pale yellow may be punctuated by a brighter accent wall in modern red, cool green or eye-catching persimmon. Textiles are commonly in lightweight cotton fabrics with white, cream or beige backgrounds, but they can feature bold motifs. Rugs often have predominantly deep wine and red backgrounds, with details in blue, green, gold and white.
- Solid wood with a sleek finish is a common Asian look. Surfaces may be lacquered, seen in shiny black futon frames or modernist tables and shelves. The Japanese farmhouse look, though, is more rustic, and may center on a wide wooden plank table with benches for seats or large earthenware jugs.
Look for pieces that have Asian design elements such as multiple shelves in various sizes; tables and cabinets with inlaid panels featuring engraving or painting; or wooden pieces that feature traditional Japanese joinery. The overall look should include clean lines, open spaces, simple design and harmonious tones. - Look for accessories that achieve unity between the external and internal environment. Allow natural light in with tri-fold screens fitted with translucent paper as window covers or room dividers. Use accessories made of natural materials, such as bamboo mats, rattan baskets, sisal rugs and stone tabletops or countertops.
Extend your Asian theme to the outdoors by integrating garden architecture, such as a fountain, garden gate or stone lantern. A traditional Zen garden, featuring sand and stones, brings a meditative calm to the landscape or, in tabletop versions, to the room. Highlight the Asian concept of yin and yang by juxtaposing accessories with contrasting properties, such as smooth ceramics on a rough mat or white stones in a black rice bowl.
