Asian-style decor draws from a wide range of influences, but has a distinct look. Simple lines, paint colors ranging from tranquil to exotic and Asian-inspired faux textures can transform a room. Use feng shui principles to determine paint color and bring flow and energy into the room. Chinese style may call for red and black paint, while Japanese colors tend to be more muted: tea greens and balanced neutrals. A spicy oriental Indian-themed room includes warm golds, reds and orange paints.
Instructions
1. Choose colors that both invoke an Asian style and complement your existing decor. Pick exotic colors such as Chinese red or warm spicy hues for a more dramatic look, or pale, delicate colors for a calmer ambiance. Avoid using too many colors in one room: a feature of Asian decorating is simplicity.
2. Use feng shui principles to choose colors. Yin energy is calming and tranquil and reflected in cool blues and purples, black, green, and white. Metallic hues are also yin. Yang colors are warm, energizing and uplifting. Pick "hot" colors from yellow to red for yang energy.
3. Paint all the walls the same color in keeping with the simple, uncluttered look characteristic of Asian decorating, or paint three walls a pale color and one focal wall a deep shade of that same color. For instance, paint a pale gold on three walls, and a deep gold on the focal wall.
4. Don't forget the trim. Use a very pure white for a classic look, or consider black painted trim for a more dramatic effect. Use a semi-gloss finish black paint so the trim looks like black lacquer.
5. Look in better paint stores for pearl or metallic-finish paints. Shiny surfaces are characteristic of Asian decor, and metallic finishes are very yin.
6. Consider adding subtle texture with faux painting. Create a silk faux finish (see Resources) to add some depth to the wall. Pair this with wall art or furniture with curved, simple lines.
