Wondering how you can improve the look of your home with something exotic and unique?  An exotic adventure to the Far East could be just the ticket.  With it's exotic flavor, Asian decor can be a beautiful decorating choice, but requires come restraint.  When it comes to the perfect Asian influenced decor, simplicity is critical.  When it comes to Asian design, less is more.

Color:  For the walls, think beige or tan, inspired by aged bamboo or rice parchment.The neutrality of the beige tone sets the stage for an exploration of some Asian inspired colors at the bolder end of the color spectrum.  Liberal use of black and white in furniture and accents can be desirable.    Mix in some green that conjures up visions of a dense bamboo jungle for a bold, expressive look or a jade sculpture to create more muted, tranquil space.  Don't be afraid to add some bold strokes of gold and red to really bring out the Oriental flavor.

Floors:  Bamboo flooring is an obvious, but sometimes expensive flooring solution to create that Asian inspired feel in a room.  A less expensive alternative is laminate flooring. However, any wood or laminate flooring will do just fine.  Ceramic or stone tile work very well in an Asian an Evesham themed room, and terra-cotta tile is a natural fit.  Avoid the temptation to use an oriental rug unless you feel strongly that it works. You'll save a few bucks.  Optionally, consider a natural fiber rug like a jute rug.The natural fiber and neutral tones make this a well-suited rug choice that supports the Asian design.It shouldn't be hard to find a rug that's 6' x 9' for around $200.  If you're on a budget, find a synthetic or wool blend or a second-hand rug.

If you prefer drapes in the windows, look for silk with a nice sheen and tie them back with gold cord that's tasseled.  To set a mood that's more relaxed, use roll-up bamboo shades.  You can find bamboo blinds that are painted in Asian themes with calligraphy, classical oriental art of Asian symbols.

Lighting: Oriental lanterns come in all shapes, colors and sizes. You'll find one to suit your budget for sure.  these are great.  The use of candles or faux candles can complement the room as well.  Do your best to avoid modern or period-specific lighting.  Water plays an important role in Asian culture, so a lighted water treatment or fountain might make a good substitute for a lamp.

Furniture:  This is an area where you may want to splurge.  Lacquered furniture is frequently seen in Asian homes.  Often finished in a polished black tone, it can make a grand statement sure to please the eye.  Armoires, curios, desks, small tables, or stools are all options.  These furnishings generally painted with scenes of life, landscape or floral designs.  Expand on the look with Wicker or bamboo furniture which perfectly complements a room decorated in Asian décor.

Decorations:  This is your opportunity to shine and have some fun.  For function, consider a Shonji room divider available in hundreds of looks and colors.  You might consider a statue of Buddha or a Kuan Yin sculpture.  For a chance at wealth and good fortune consider a laughing Buddha statue.  It's worth doing some research on Feng Shui to get a feel for how this decorating philosophy can be leveraged.

Oriental fans and umbrellas are a great choice for the wall. Silk paintings, Asian themed wall reliefs and lacquired wall art are all exceptional choices.  The addition of a porcelain vase or oriental fishbowl makes a strong Asian inspired decor accessory.  Ginger or tea jars, bonsai trees, bamboo plants, Asian clocks and mirros are all excellent decorating options.  There's certainly no shortage of possibilities.

Have a blast with all the great decorating options, just remember that in the case of Asian-themed decorating it's important not to overdo it.  It's important to make sure that the space is free of clutter, otherwise you won't get the same effect.  Let a few key pieces in the room carry the theme and emphasize the approach that less is more.

 

Decorating with an Eastern Flair

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