Create an Asian-Inspired Space with Traditional Living Room Furniture

Whether you prefer the bohemian look and brilliant hues of Indian décor, or the cool contemporary style of Tokyo high rises, Asia gives us numerous options for DIY decorating. Updating your living space with traditional living room furniture and Asian accents can happen in just one weekend with some artful editing of current possessions and some accessorizing. Still, you might want to invest more time and money in having a full Asian living room makeover.

Use Dramatic Color

One of the most dramatic characteristics of Asian décor is the use of color. Chinese interiors  tend to have red as a dominant color as it represents good luck. Furniture is mostly shiny black lacquered wood. For the Japanese, natural tones of tan, grey and brown are popular. Accents in many Asian decors include gold, either as wall color or trim.

Texture

When Asian décor comes to mind, we mostly envision natural wood that is highly polished to a mirrored shine. Take for example the Chestnut Brown Cocktail Table by Jofran. Japanese interiors have lots of natural rocks and luminous paper surfaces. Bamboo is used for containers, window shades, picture frame, and furniture.

Nature’s Green

Natural cuttings and plants give texture and artistic expression in Asian interiors. Bamboo plants placed in big and small pots look great when adorned with gold and red tassels, and are mostly found in Chinese homes. Meticulously manicured bonsai plants are very common in Japanese-style homes.

Multi-Purpose Furniture

Space are mostly at a minimum in Asian interiors so furniture serving multiple purposes are prominent. A futon gives seating and sleep in one piece of furniture. The Silenos Plus Sofa by Innovation Living is one gorgeous modern take on the traditional futon. A wooden trunk with numerous drawers gives hidden storage while serving as a table top.

Oriental Rugs

Floor covering is the foundation of Asian interiors, whether it is a beautiful floral wool rug in a Chinese room or a tatami mat in a Japanese interior. Furniture and fabric colors enhance and draw out the colors of the flooring.

Screens

Because space in Asian interiors are at a minimum, floor screens are a big element of décor. A Shoji screen like the Sheet Bamboo Screen by Screen Gems can give a window cover, hide an unattractive corner, or serve as a room divider.

Resist the urge to combine numerous elements or pieces of Asian décor in your living room. Simplicity and serenity are key to a truly authentic Asian-style room.