Changing Tastes The Appeal Of The Orient

The world is growing – boundaries seem to be disappearing and never has this been more apparent than in home decor. Now that travel is so much cheaper and people are more adventurous, their tastes are changing and being redefined by the various cultures they come in contact with during their travels.

Gone are the days when houses were decorated in the colour tones and furnishings that were more specific to Western culture and tastes. Step in to some houses and the abundance of Oriental decorative items such as Buddha figurines, Feng Shui influenced accents and decorative vases as well as the rich and vibrant tones with which walls are painted, come as no surprise. The number and popularity of home makeover shows is proof that people value the appearance of their living spaces more than ever before. Often the décor of a living room is an expression of one’s personality and a lot of time and effort goes into the positioning of furniture, colour and material of curtains, decorative accents and type of floor coverings.

Studied symmetry has given way to softer lines, fewer rules, and more color. Asian & Oriental decor is well known for featuring softer, warmer and more ‘earthy’ or natural tones - often the furniture is made of dark-wood such as teak and the fabrics in the room are soft linens, cottons or even Silks. Area Rugs of Wool, Jute, Hemp and Cotton are used to add colour and character to an otherwise dull and unexciting room.

The internet has also made it easier for people to access these Oriental products without having to travel to the East. Internet shopping has grown over the years and the increased security features make it more appealing – it helps that you don’t get sore feet too!

Some of the best Asian & Oriental décor products can be found on websites like www.MyOriental.com that specialise in home decorative items from Thailand. The products are unusual and have been carefully sourced by its owners who have a great love for the Orient. The products featured on the site have been chosen with great care – they are known not just for their unusual nature but for their quality as well.

Regardless of what purpose your living room serves, the fabrics, colors, furniture, and accessories should be what you love. Whether it’s serene and neutral, colorful and lively, or something in-between, it should reflect your taste. It is, after all, your room.