Thailand
Tropical Asian design should bring a feeling of the lush flora and rich culture of places like Thailand and Bali into your home. With the use of natural fibers and warm wood furnishings you can create a relaxing environment that will transport you to another place and time. Here's how.
Bedroom
A tropical Asian bedroom should be a relaxing serene environment. Start with sage green or soft yellow walls and cover wood floors with a small area rug made from natural fibers. Top it off with a heavy bed frame made from bamboo.
Dress the bed in light blue or light green linens with a traditional tropical Asian design such as a crane or ocean motif. For an additional tropical feature, hang a decorative mosquito netting hoop over the bed and drape the netting behind the headboard to transport you to your favorite hut in Bali.
Hang a bamboo-framed mirror over a light-colored or rattan bureau, and dress windows in light-colored sheers to make the most of the light. Place large leafy green plants in corners with up-lights to maximize the tropical look. A small fountain by the entryway to the room will complete the Asian influence.
Living Room
The living room will use classic Asian motifs in furniture style and color. Cherry woods with traditional Asian carvings create a warm living space and functional storage. Select a reproduction medicine chest as a focal point and to hold a flat-screen television. Place a low cypress table in front of a sleek-lined sofa with an area rug with a tropical motif such as a large palm leaf. Sprinkle tropical Asian-styled throw pillows throughout the room to tie it all together.
A traditional calligraphy table works well in front of windows to hold plants, a Buddha or other Asian-inspired figurines. Again, place large leafy plants such as palm trees or elephant ear plants around the room to add to the tropical appeal.
Kitchen
Light-colored wood and neutral paint colors set the tone for a calm kitchen environment, which can be layered with tropical Asian elements. Dress windows with bamboo shades to soften incoming light, and place natural wood accessories and woven baskets on countertops to hold teas and spices. Bookshelves can hold Buddhas or green jade elephants along with tea pots with traditional Asian design. A well-kept bonsai tree is a focal point for a dining table or near a windowsill. Add some chimes outside the kitchen window to create an island atmosphere when the wind blows.
Tropical Asian wall scrolls can dress up empty space near a kitchen table or between doorways to complete the look.
Tags: Asian design, with traditional, focal point, large leafy, made from, natural fibers