Haaaa! Soothing, relaxing, and cosy are three adjectives that perfectly describe Asian-inspired decor. But what is Asian decor exactly? Because if we think about it objectively, it's like saying "I love French cuisine". However, we French people know that each of our regions has its own specialty, just as each country in Asia has its own style of cuisine, which also varies by region.
When talking about Asian decor, Westerners very quickly fall into clichés and sum up this style as a small Buddha statue, a few candles, and wall decor with a black Chinese symbol on a white background.
Let's just say that's a good start, but keep in mind that decor in Asia varies from country to country. In fact, Chinese decor does not exactly resemble Japanese, Korean, or Balinese style to name just a few. There is, however, a certain similarity between all these countries from an architectural point of view. Indeed, the shape of curved roofs is very characteristic of Asian countries, and harmonious gardens with carefully raked gravel, paths lined with duckboards, and meticulously trimmed shrubs have built the reputation of Asian gardens, and Japanese gardens in particular.
Let's take a look together in this article at the different styles of so-called 'Asian' decor
Asian decor materials
When it comes to materials, exoticism is definitely part of the package! From timber framing construction to furniture making and decorative elements, the materials used are often wood-based. The cabinetmaking woods used in China are as follows:
- Sandalwood:
- Rosewood
- Chinese mahogany
- Ormosia wood
- Cedar wood
The list includes a few more references... if you would like more information about Chinese furniture and its cabinetmaking methods, follow this link => This will give you an idea of the design of Chinese furniture in general: coffee table, wardrobe, stool, armchair etc...
We can't talk about Asian building materials without mentioning the emblem of our shop, bamboo. This multifaceted plant has significant properties when it comes to construction. Both flexible and strong, bamboo is recommended in earthquake-prone areas and is also highly valued for skyscraper scaffolding, particularly in China.
This plant grows without fertiliser or pesticides and at a speed that outpaces all competition. However, despite all these advantages, the intensive production of bamboo has certain downsides, which we take care to clarify through the various articles on our blog: The Eco Mag.
Chinese decor
It is through its porcelain and poetic motifs that Chinese culture delicately finds its way into our homes. Decorative art has for millennia been a remarkable field for the Chinese imagination. Indeed, geometric designs, floral patterns, and religious figures adorn the porcelain, embroidery, trinkets, and objects of Chinese decor.
Chinese ideograms have fascinated Western minds for centuries, and even today many Chinese objects become fabulous decorative items and original gift ideas for us.
Printed, carved, or embroidered on jade, ceramic, lacquer, ivory, silk, or satin, Chinese ideograms take us on a journey from Paris to Hong Kong for the time it takes to enjoy tea served on a genuine Chinese tea tray.
Balinese decor
Bali is the paradise of what are known as digital nomads, in other words "web entrepreneurs". Indeed, magnificent landscapes and healthy food are all part of the experience in an incredibly exotic setting. The Balinese taste for sculpture and for working with various materials such as Suar wood and teak makes their creations exceptional objects.
Balinese style is above all very natural. It draws inspiration from tropical landscapes and lush vegetation straight out of paradise. To create a Balinese atmosphere in your interior, introduce green plants such as ferns, or better yet bamboo, which is everywhere in Bali. As you can see, nature is very present in Balinese culture. Indonesian houses are built from wood, and the inhabitants love woodwork from floor to ceiling, including the furniture. Indonesian cabinetmakers are among the best in the world. When it comes to traditional Balinese objects, small Buddha statues are particularly emblematic of the style.
Korean decor
Korea is a country with an interior design style that can be described as minimalist and sleek because of its Scandinavian influences. Indeed, Scandinavian furniture offers furniture made from natural wood in neutral colours such as white, beige, milky brown, and light yellow. This type of furniture creates a feeling of open, airy space, bringing a touch of freshness and serenity to Korean homes.
Korea is marked by a style of traditional architecture called Hanok which is characterised by the use of natural materials in its construction such as wood, but also mud and stone.
Japanese decor
Japanese style has so much to offer in terms of design, art, and decor that it would take a whole article to detail everything that relates closely or remotely to Japanese interior design style. In the same vein as Korean style, Japanese decor is influenced by minimalism.
It is in lighting that Japan stands apart. Indeed, you may have in mind the famous paper lamps called "andon" made with a bamboo frame. These became popular during the Edo period; they were portable but could also be placed on a stand or hung on a wall. Discover within our bamboo wood lighting collection a few models of wall lights, pendant chandeliers, and ceiling lights that will bring a touch of Feng Shui and zen calm to your home.
