When the concept of Feng Shui was introduced in India, it be­came a rage.

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Now an increasing number of people want to go for Oriental-themed décor in their homes. Interiors in Chinese or Japanese style or an intelligent blend of both can make a room look really beautiful. Whether you wish to give an Oriental look to an entire room, or merely add a few Oriental articles to add spice to it, there is no dearth of ideas and products in the market. Traditional eastern colours include blue, white, light green, brown and red. A combination of these colours would give any room a stimulating atmosphere.

A typical Oriental décor would include bamboo candles and picture frames, rock gardens and fountains, Shoji room dividers, and scrolls with Chinese script, rice paper lanterns, Maneki Neko (Japanese lucky cat with one paw raised to welcome good luck) and wall hangings made of special fabric called Chirimen.

“Over the past few years, demand for Chinese and Japanese showpieces is growing,” says Monisha Gupta, president of Craft House at The Metropolitan Hotel in Delhi. Craft House imports and sells Japanese porcelain dolls, lanterns, wall hangings and other décor items.

“An East Asian or oriental theme is designed to bring peace, balance and serenity to the space as most of it is based on Feng Shui. The accent here is less clutter and predominance of natural materials. Simple yet elegant, this décor focuses on displaying a few chosen accessories that act as highlights,” says Jaya Subramanium, a Chinese scholar who frequently visits China and is absolutely fascinated by Chinese décor.

Furniture used in Oriental décor is often ornate with intricate patterns. These articles display exquisite craftsmanship. Bright colours and interesting textures mark the interiors. Given the minimalist leaning, oriental décor is a great option for small interiors.

“Oriental decor can give both a dramatic as well as an unusual look. It is vibrant, filled with co­lours and patterns yet relaxing, exuding cosiness and warmth. It is extremely simple and requires minimal maintenance. This style utilises very few decorative items. It highlights empty space, which provides peace to both mind and senses,” says Gupta.

“Chinese colours are primarily bright red and black, though blue, yellow and green are also used. Gold is significantly used in Ch­inese décor. Though walls are painted in rich colours, they are normally plain and display patterned wallpapers featuring calligraphy, oriental lettering, flowers, birds, fish or bamboo. Japanese themes use soft natural colours in muted tones. Thus, beige, brown and grey are popular colours. Their furniture is, however, made of dark wood like black lacquer, says Jaya.

“Chinese paper lanterns and oriental style rugs give an authentic oriental feel to the décor. Typical floral wool rugs and dark exquisitely detailed furniture lend a special charm to the interiors. In a Japanese theme interior, floor mats are made of straw and cloth and are known as Tatami mats,” Jaya explains and adds that since Indian tourists visit south-east Asia, Taiwan and China in great numbers, they are familiar with oriental décor. So what are you waiting for?