Around The World With Your Home Decor
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When it comes to decorating our homes, it's easy to get stuck in a rut and fall back on the same old design styles that everyone else is using. It's no wonder we can become disheartened with decoration - after all, if we've seen it all before, how can we expect to feel inspired? The truth is, no matter how unique a decor style may seem, it's likely to be overdone to the extreme.
But fear not, there's a solution to this design dilemma: look further afield. Across the globe, there are countless design ideas that are vastly different from what we're used to seeing in our own countries. By exploring these styles, you can create a unique and exotic home that reflects your individual tastes.
Whether you want to fully embrace a new design style or simply incorporate some new elements into your existing decor, it's important to understand the characteristics and origins of each style. That's why I'm taking you on a round-the-world decoration trip to discover some of the most inspiring home decor ideas from around the globe. From the opulence of Italy to the serenity of Japan, and from the vibrancy of India to the earthiness of Bali, there's a wealth of design inspiration waiting for you. So come along and explore the world of home decor - who knows what you might discover!
Decor ideas from across the globe!
Read on as we discover home decor inspiration from the following countries:
- Italy
- Japan
- France
- India
- Bali
- Turkey
- Denmark
- Peru
- South Africa
Enjoy!
ITALY
Italy has long been associated with the finer things in life, from delicious food to luxurious fashion. This passion for decadence is also reflected in Italian home decor. Italian homes are known for their lavishness and layers of luxury that welcome you every time you enter. The Italian decor style is popular and it's easy to see why.
For the most part, Italian decor is inspired by the Renaissance style of 15th-century Florence. The look is grand and ornate, with an emphasis on impressive buildings and bold statements. To achieve this style in your home, think about incorporating features like concrete pillars, large arches, and intricate moldings.
When selecting furniture for your Italian-inspired home, keep in mind that Italians love grandeur and they don't do anything by halves. Opt for imposing pieces that exude opulence and make a statement. Investing in Italian designer furniture can help you perfect the look.
Lighting is also an important aspect of Italian decor. To stick with tradition, choose chandelier-style light fixtures that add a touch of grandeur to your rooms. Materials like stone and marble are often used in Italian decor, so investing in stone-style chandeliers can help you finish off the look.
Overall, Italian decor is all about creating a sense of grandeur and luxury. With a focus on intricate details, bold statements, and high-quality materials, an Italian-inspired home is sure to impress.
JAPAN
When it comes to Japanese home decor, simplicity and space-saving are key values that are reflected in every aspect of the style. Natural materials like wood and bamboo play a significant role in Japanese households, providing a connection with nature that enhances the peaceful vibe of the home. Incorporating wooden cladding on the inside of your home can add to this connection and create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
In Japanese homes, many people use wooden shutters instead of doors, which can open up space and create a sense of flow throughout the home. When choosing a colour scheme for your Japanese-inspired home, stick to minimalist colours like whites or pale greens, which will work wonderfully to create a calming effect. They also work well with wooden fittings and add to the natural feel of the home.
Japanese homes are extremely minimalist places, with a focus on keeping the space as clear as possible. In fact, beds are often removed during the day to create more space. While you don't have to go to this extreme, it's worth considering reducing clutter as much as possible. A cluttered home can lead to a cluttered mind, so it's important to have a clear out before you get started.
It's also worth getting smart with storage that doesn't show. For example, wooden paneling can be used to form the front of hidden storage cabinets, adding to the minimalist aesthetic. Plants are also an important aspect of Japanese decor. Bonsai trees or bamboo plants are often featured in households and can help increase the natural connection in the home. They are also a perfect way to add a small splash of colour to an otherwise minimalist space.
FRANCE
When it comes to discussing French decor, it’s impossible not to draw comparisons with Italian style. However, French decor style is very distinct in many ways. For one, France is known for its love of art, and incorporating art into your French style home is essential. It's advisable to go for pieces from iconic French artists, such as Monet or Pablo Picasso, who spent a large part of his life in Paris. Art prints could be an excellent addition to your walls, adding a touch of elegance to the overall decor.
French homes also feature high bookcases, emphasising the importance of reading as an art form. The influence of famous writers like Oscar Wilde, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Ernest Hemingway has left a mark on French decor. If you have a decent reading collection, full-length bookshelves could be a perfect addition to your French style home.
Apart from art and books, antiques also play a significant role in French decor. A few antiques can transform the look and feel of your home, with the shabby chic appeal of worn furniture fitting perfectly with the artistic style of French decor.
Another feature that is quintessential to French homes is big sweeping drapes. These glamorous drapes are reminiscent of a less bohemian French history, adding an element of luxury to your French style home.
It's also worth considering exterior shutters for your windows, as many French homes feature them. These shutters not only keep the sun out but also add a touch of charm to your home. They typically have a slit or a cut-out pattern, which could be enhanced with a metal rail or a flower box.
By incorporating these elements into your French style home, you can achieve a touch of elegance and sophistication that is quintessentially French.
INDIA
We’ve spoken about glamour, minimalism, and art. But, it’s time to change the pace with a mention of India. This vibrant and loud city is a step away from all the other styles mentioned. But, an Indian style could be just what you need to create a home with a difference.
The first thing to note about Indian decor is the amazing use of colour. Often, it seems that the brighter the colours you use, the better. From walls painted clay orange, to cushions in any colour from pink to blue, it all has a place in an Indian home. Fabulous and colourful silks also play a significant role in Indian culture. Hanging these from your walls, or draping them over your furniture, is sure to match the style.
Rather than focusing on glamour, Indian homes are a comfortable space for all the family. Often in Indian culture, extended families all live under the same roof. As such, the home becomes a place for coming together. There’s a large emphasis on communal dining, so you may want to focus on your kitchen, and dining space. Open these areas up so that they become a central part of your home.
Temples and worship are also important in India. Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism all play a significant role in everyday culture. As such, it may be worth incorporating some temple inspired decor. Candle lanterns, wall hangings, and mirrors with templesque domes would all work well.
Traditionally, Indian floors consist of tiles. Bright or flamboyant rugs then form the centrepiece of the room. Incorporating tiles into your home would look fantastic, and is sure to set you apart. In keeping with the colourful hustle and bustle, choose the brightest tiles you can. The more ornate, the better!
BALI
Balinese design is a unique and captivating style that can transform your home into a peaceful oasis. It's inspired by the island's lush landscapes, serene temples, and rich cultural heritage. Balinese decor is all about creating a harmonious space that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living, bringing nature indoors to promote peace, calm, and relaxation.
One of the most striking features of Balinese design is the use of natural materials like bamboo, rattan, and stone. These materials are used to create furniture, accent pieces, and decor elements that highlight the island's tropical beauty. Wooden furniture pieces are often intricately carved with traditional Balinese motifs, adding an element of exoticism and luxury to any home.
In addition to natural materials, Balinese decor is characterised by its use of tropical plants and water features. Indoor plants like palms and ferns add a sense of lushness and vitality to the space, while water features like fountains or fish ponds create a soothing and calming atmosphere.
Another hallmark of Balinese design is the integration of outdoor and indoor living spaces. Homes are designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, creating a sense of continuity between the indoors and outdoors. Open-air living areas are often used to create this effect, with large windows or doors that allow for natural light and fresh air to flow freely.
When it comes to decor, Balinese design often incorporates art and craftwork that celebrates the region's rich artisanal heritage. Intricate carvings, hand-painted ceramics, and traditional textiles all contribute to the unique and exotic feel of Balinese design. Wall art and sculptures are also common, often depicting nature, spirituality, or mythological figures.
TURKEY
Turkish design is a truly unique and fascinating blend of Eastern and Western influences, reflecting the country's rich cultural heritage. This design style draws inspiration from Ottoman architecture, which was characterised by intricate patterns, ornate details, and rich materials. Islamic art, which also heavily influenced Turkish design, is known for its geometric patterns, calligraphy, and intricate tilework. Turkish design incorporates both of these influences, creating a style that is at once ornate and elegant.
One of the most distinctive features of Turkish design is the use of vibrant colours. From rich jewel tones to bright blues and greens, Turkish homes often feature a wide range of hues that create a sense of visual richness and depth. This is particularly true when it comes to textiles, which are often highly patterned and woven from luxurious materials like silk and wool.
Turkish homes also tend to have high ceilings and spacious rooms, which create a sense of grandeur and openness. Ornate details like carved wooden screens and colourful stained glass windows add to the sense of opulence, while intricate tilework is used to create stunning mosaics and murals. The result is a space that feels both luxurious and welcoming.
Furniture and decor in Turkish design are often highly ornamental, featuring intricate carvings, inlaid mother-of-pearl, and richly patterned textiles. From kilim rugs to brass lanterns, Turkish design celebrates history and craftsmanship. Handmade ceramics and pottery are also a prominent feature of Turkish design, adding a sense of warmth and personality to the space.
Arne Jacobsen Egg Chair wall print
DENMARK
Danish design is a style that values minimalism, functionality, and understated elegance. It emerged in the mid-20th century and has since become a global design phenomenon. The Danes' love for simple yet beautiful design can be seen in every aspect of their homes, from furniture to lighting and even kitchenware.
Danish design is characterised by clean lines, natural materials, and a focus on quality craftsmanship. It emphasises practicality, comfort, and durability. This design style often features light woods, such as oak or teak, paired with smooth surfaces and unobtrusive textures.
One hallmark of Danish design is the use of organic shapes and natural forms. Designers often draw inspiration from nature, creating pieces that blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This is particularly evident in the use of curved, sculptural forms in furniture and lighting.
Danish homes are designed to be comfortable and functional, with a focus on creating cosy, inviting spaces. Furniture and decor in Danish design are often multi-functional, with pieces like storage beds or modular seating that can be easily reconfigured to suit changing needs. Furniture and decor in Danish design are often highly functional, with pieces like the iconic Egg Chair by Arne Jacobsen becoming instant classics.
Lighting is another important element in Danish design, with a focus on creating warm, inviting spaces. Danish designers are known for their use of soft, diffused light, which helps to create a cosy and inviting atmosphere. Iconic pieces like the PH Artichoke Lamp by Poul Henningsen are instantly recognisable and continue to be popular today.
PERU
Peruvian design is a unique blend of indigenous and Spanish colonial influences, drawing inspiration from the Andean mountains and the Amazon rainforest. This design style is full of life and vitality, with vibrant textiles, handcrafted pottery, and colourful murals. Peruvian homes are a reflection of the warm and hospitable culture of the people.
Bright colours and eclectic decor are the hallmarks of Peruvian design, often creating a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere in homes. Furniture and decor in Peruvian design are highly expressive, showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage. Woven alpaca blankets, hand-painted ceramics, llama doormats and carved wooden furniture are just some of the examples of the stunning craftsmanship of Peruvian artisans.
Peruvian design often incorporates patterns and motifs inspired by nature, such as animals and plants native to the region. And, like many Latin American countries, Peru places a strong emphasis on family and community, with family photos and portraits often on display.
From bold textiles to whimsical wall art, Peruvian design is a celebration of creativity and tradition. It's a perfect style for those who want to infuse their homes with a sense of warmth and energy. With its unique blend of cultural influences, Peruvian design is sure to add a touch of exotic flair to any home.
SOUTH AFRICA
South African design is a reflection of the country's rich and diverse cultural heritage, with a unique blend of African, European, and Asian influences. The style is characterised by its bold colours, geometric patterns, and the use of handcrafted ceramics and textiles. These elements combine to create a sense of energy and vibrancy that is uniquely South African.
One of the defining features of South African design is its eclectic mix of furniture and decor. Rather than following a particular style or trend, South African homes embrace a more individualistic approach to interior design. This allows for a wide range of influences to be incorporated, resulting in a truly unique and personalised space.
The furniture and decor in South African design are often highly expressive and showcase the country's rich artisanal traditions. Hand-carved wooden masks, beaded wall hangings, and intricately woven baskets are just a few examples of the types of pieces that are often used. These items not only add character and personality to a space but also serve as a reminder of the country's cultural heritage.
Colour is also a crucial element of South African design. Bright and bold colours are often used to create a sense of energy and vitality in a space. The use of geometric patterns is also prevalent, often inspired by traditional African textiles.
Final word
In conclusion, exploring different home decor styles from around the world can be an excellent way to break free from the norm and create a unique space that reflects your personality and passions. From the glamour of Italian decor to the simplicity of Japanese design, the vibrancy of Peruvian style to the functionality of Danish design, there is something out there for everyone.
By incorporating elements from different cultures, you can create a truly international feel in your home and bring a sense of adventure and inspiration to your daily life. So why not take a trip around the world and see what design styles inspire you?