How to Create an Asian Bedroom

Use a Chinese lantern in your bedroom as a whimsical Asian accessory.

Decorating a bedroom with an Asian-inspired theme offers a tranquil space to lay your head. The sleek elements of modern Asian decor combined with the comfort of traditionally styled Asian accessories can turn a plain bedroom into a haven of peace and relaxation. De-clutter your bedroom by decorating it with simple pieces that marry modernism and Asian culture together. Choose pieces that offer a minimalist style and provide the Zen you are desiring in this space.

Instructions

1. Select an Asian-inspired color palette. Deep browns and blacks, cherry reds and burnished gold hues help bring out the Asian theme. Combine one or two of these colors with a pale pink, white or green hue for contrast. Choose a main color in neutral, and consider using a bold color as an accent.

2. Decide on furniture. Find a bedroom set made out of a lacquered rosewood or pick glossy black pieces with a modern design. Furniture should be streamlined and angular; simple geometric shapes help make a room feel open and clean.

3. Remove the clutter. Put the knickknacks somewhere else -- Asian decor is about simplicity and minimalism. Instead, choose a couple of accessories that reflect on the Asian culture. A small sculpture of a Chinese dragon, a bonsai tree or bamboo plant can bring out Japanese and Chinese style.

4. Light up your bedroom. A lamp with a ceramic base, decorated in a flourishing flower pattern or a Chinese paper lantern wall lamp can infuse soft lighting throughout the room. Avoid harsh fluorescent lights and allow as much natural light as possible into your bedroom.

5. Enliven your bedroom with rich fabrics. Smooth satin, nubby silk and gossamer sheers all can play a part in creating an Asian bedroom. Find plain-colored fabrics that match your color palette to use for bed coverings, throw pillows and curtain decor. Contrast dark furniture with pale shades of fabric for coverlets. Pick out a bold signature color, such as a bright red, to use as an accent for throw pillows or rugs.

6. Complete your bedroom with wall art. Chinese brush paintings, calligraphy or wall fans can add the finishing touches to your bedroom. Pick an item or two that incorporates your signature color to unify the decor.

Tips & Warnings

• Terracotta soldiers, Asian lion bookends or a Buddha figurine can complement an Asian bedroom.

• The soothing sounds of a stone water fountain brings a natural element to your decorating. Choose a small electric-powered fountain and place it on a small table top or on top of a dresser.

• Avoid using gimmicky items like chopsticks, wind chimes or Asian party lights. These items will make the bedroom feel cluttered and cheap looking.

References

• Bedroom Decor Ideas: Modern Asian Bedroom Design Showcase
• Creative Home Decorating Room by Room: Asian Decorating is for Those Who Strive to Create a Haven from the Outside World
• DIY Home Tips; Asian-Inspired Home Decorating Themes & Decor; Connie Frederiks: 2010
• Home Decorating Coach: The Best Asian Interior Decorating Tips: 2010

Resources

• Asian Ideas: Asian Home Decor