Four Favorite Decorating Ideas From Around the World

May 24, 2010

In this age of "staycations" and budget consciousness, many homeowners are looking for new ways to create retreats within the home. Perhaps you'd like to be whisked away to the French countryside or a Hawaiian beach, but can't afford to shell out the dough. Expand your horizons by creating a little piece of paradise in your own home, using ideas borrowed from cultures across the globe.

An Eastern Retreat: The Japanese-Inspired Bedroom

Japanese decorating tends to be understated, with quality and texture taking precedence over bright colors and patterns. Traits such as clean, crisp lines and functional storage areas make it an appealing culture to borrow decorating tips from, especially in the bedroom, where calming and relaxation are of particular importance. Simplicity is key here. Envision a low bed with crisp white sheets, and understated accents like fresh flowers or a small sculpture to complete the look.

Scandinavian Elements in the Living Room

Light colors take the forefront in Swedish design, possibly originating as a way to offset the long, dark Scandinavian winters. Furniture is utilitarian and space well proportioned, but the light and airiness of Swedish furniture and decorating schemes keeps any note of severity out of the way. Instead the feel is playful and relaxing, with plenty of space between areas of the home, and often incorporating open floor plans.

A Warm Italian Kitchen

A Tuscan-style kitchen makes a warm and inviting area for the whole family to gather for cooking and eating meals. Ceramics and earth tones are on display, with a playful mixture of colors and textures. Think tile backsplash, large ceramic bowls on metal shelves, and all of your most useful cooking items like olive oil, cutlery, and spices out on display. You can use glass jars to store and show off fresh ingredients like pasta and veggies.

A Tropical Outdoor Retreat

Creative outdoor spaces are becoming a hot trend among homeowners today. Even if your outdoor space is limited to a balcony or patio, you can make a get away worthy of a tropical paradise. Use tropical colors like mango orange, kiwi green, and pineapple yellow in your decorating scheme, and bring in some plant life like a palm tree or hibiscus plant to add to the ambiance. Tikki torches, sea shells, and flowing tablecloths are accessory ideas to add the finishing touches.

These are only a few ideas for bringing global design into your home. Explore the world around you and see what design elements appeal to you. Most importantly, have fun creating your own at-home retreat.