- In reality there is no such thing as singular "Asia" decor. Asia decor is an umbrella term that covers a similarity of design style featured in countries as culturally diverse as Japan, China, Thailand, Korea, Vietnam and others. The primary connective tissues at play is the historical traditions of much of the continent to seek balance in all aspects of life.
- Asian decorating in Western society has the function of combining the sensibilities of both hemispheres into a kind of hybrid creature. Functionalism in this sense is to bring about the essences of harmony and balance in an effort to blend Asian and Western decorating ideas. The pursuit of this hybrid actually is better termed Asian-influenced decor, but most decorators prefer the simplicity of describing it purely as Asian decor.
- One of the defining effects of Asian decor is the use of specific colors to generate an emotional resonance or simply to respond to ancient traditions. That shiny black lacquer that dominates so much of wooden Asian furniture, especially tables and chests, is a tradition that traces well back into Asian history. The most dominant striking color used in Asian decor is the almost blood red. Despite its connotation the red is used to bring good luck and protect against bad luck. Gold is the preferred color for trim as well as for highlighting walls.
- Asian decor generously features water in both interior and exterior settings to imbue the space with that ever-present sense of serenity. The sound of falling water creates a very peaceful ambience, so small waterfalls are a must-have element for anyone considering decorating in an Asian style. In addition to running water, ponds are often used, most often with fish like goldfish or koi.
- The size of the room that is being decorated with an Asia touch will determine the size of one of the pre-eminent distinguishing features of Asia decor. What is today more politically correctly called Asian was not too very long ago more likely to be described as Oriental. Oriental rugs are extravagantly detailed tapestries that are placed on the floor rather than the wall. These rugs come in a variety of sizes from small throw rugs to enormous rugs that can dominate a floor. The Oriental rug has long been one of the overriding foundations of Asian decor.
- The most common problem that people face when decorating in an Asian style is placing too many items into too compact a space. Asian decor is so incredibly beautiful and varied that it is all too easy to give in to the desire to overdo it. Remember that key element in Asia decor is keeping things as uncluttered as possible. Choose carefully the decorations that you want and focus on how they work together rather than how much you love them as individual items.
- The significance of the simplicity and minimalist approach of genuine Asian decor is based upon, especially in Japan, a lack of area. Because the living quarters of so many Asian people is severely limited in comparison to the average American house, the uncluttered look is based upon the need for furniture to have different functions. Futons are very popular, for instance, because they can serve as both a bed and a sofa. This aspect of Asia decor tends to be lost when applied to Western sensibilities in which size is everything.
