Asian Oriental Decor

Asian decor is very popular. Gone are the days when Asian decor meant garish Oriental red with gold or black accents. Asian decor today is subtle. Think Zen. It's about clean lines and calming colors. Asian decor nurtures the soul and should bring to mind ancient wisdom, not clichéd stereotypes. That doesn't mean Asian decor should be boring. Using small Oriental accents will enliven your Asian decor without overpowering it.

Using Buddha Statues

Buddha statues can be used as Oriental accents for your Asian decor. Please keep in mind they are more than just statues to Buddhists. Some Buddhists would find it highly offensive if you place the Buddha on the floor or by your feet. Showing respect shows you value and understand the Asian culture.

Be Subtle

If you would like an Asian bedroom, every item in the room doesn't have to be Oriental. Add a hint of Asia by buying an Asian-inspired bed like a futon or a simple platform bed. A bamboo plant makes an inspirational living Asian accent. Buy pictures with simple Asian characters or writing to polish your look. Good choices for a bedroom are tranquility, peace or love. Another classic Asian character is the Yin and Yang, which represents balance.

Nurture

Create an Asian meditation space in your house. This is easy to do by finding a quiet corner of the house and clearing out all the clutter. Add a mat or a low chair to sit and reflect. If you like incense, you can create a small alter to burn it on. A fountain makes a great focal point.

Color

Paint your walls a soft, crisp color. A light sage green, cornflower blue or eggshell white on your walls will help soften your Asian look. Want drama? Add vibrant colors in Oriental accents, but keep it to a minimum. Bright peacock-colored pillows will really pop against softly painted walls.

Contrast

Have your heart set on the Asian red look? You can still have all the drama of the red without being gaudy. Paint your walls a soft oatmeal or tan color. Make sure your carpet and couch are the same shade. Buy bright-red pillows for the couch and bright-red lampshades. Hang a picture with heavy red and tan accents above the couch. Not enough red for you? Go ahead and paint a wall red. The key to making that color work is to keep everything else simple and clean. White carpet and furniture can help tame the red, without taking away the drama. Add few if any Oriental knickknacks to keep the lines clean. Most importantly, remember you want a tastefully Asian-inspired decor that still reflects your taste.