Eastern Influences On Western Interiors: Japanese Décor - Part I of II - Color, Texture and Contrast

The topic of eastern influences on western interiors is a very broad subject. Many countries, such as China, Japan, Tibet, etc., have had an influence. Therefore, I have chosen to focus on one country for this article, Japan.

Characteristics of Japanese Interiors

1. COLOR:

Japanese interiors generally use neutral, natural colors, to provide a simple background. Interiors emphasize architecture, and as a result, provide a sense of geometric order. In addition, natural colors minimize a feeling of clutter, which is also essential to eastern design and its philosophy of simplicity. When a statement is made in a Japanese interior, it is usually through a single strong exclamation of color or a predominant texture.

Eastern art colors are pure. Unlike western art, which mixes color and refines sketches, eastern art is original. This means the initial color and/or brush stroke is the final result. Western art is often complex, whereas eastern art is simple, strong, and graphic.

Black is often considered a "non-color" in western society, yet, it is very important in eastern interiors. The use of black in oriental rooms lends definition and form. For example, black is a color in its own right, when used with white rice paper in a shoji screen.

2. TEXTURE & CONTRAST:

Some Japanese textures and materials that immediately come to mind are cedar, rice paper, maple, bamboo, stone, and woven wicker. One might also think of textured silk, tatami floor mats, and the elaborate needlework of kimonos and obi's.

Japanese culture seeks to balance opposites in all aspects of life (yin and yang), and interiors are no exception. Interior finishes can be highly opposing and contrasting, and yet achieve balance. Examples are, highly polished floors with heavily textured mats, a lacquered box displayed on top of a rough wooden table, or white pebbles on a polished black granite ledge around a tub.

3. DISPLAY:

Western homes typically use an object on the perimeter as a focal point, such as a fireplace, a painting, or an elaborate window treatment. Eastern interiors, on the other hand, focus on a central object, such as a hearth (irori), a garden, an altar, or an elaborate still life composition.

Japanese homes also commonly have display alcoves, called tokonoma. Objects placed in these alcoves generate two types of feelings, either (1) a natural or organic feel, by displaying an odd number of objects together, or (2) an ordered and disciplined environment by using an even quantity. For example, three calligraphy brushes in a cup would be organic, and four pebbles on a dish would be disciplined.

Japanese displays are fluid. In other words, a Japanese alcove may display a scroll one-week, and a set of pots the next. Eastern cultures tend to store and rotate objects. (This is probably for two reasons; (1) limited space, and, (2) visual pollution, outside the home, as the population increases.) Japanese displays are a reflection of the season, celebration, or honored guest. This minimal approach focuses on the quality and craftsmanship.

Instead of rotating objects, westerners tend to "display it all." (I guess its because they we're afraid someone whose given us something may come over and we won't have it out?) A westerner would also tend to add to a display to create a balance, whereas an easterner would create harmony by taking away. To easterners, less is more, order is harmony, and there is a place for everything and everything is in its place.

This concludes Part I. Part II of Eastern Influences on Western Interiors: Japanese Décor will focus on the Tea Ceremony, Furnishings, and Antiques or Reproductions.

About The Author

Catherine McGivern is a professional interior designer who hosts www.aboutdecorating.net. About Decorating is devoted to home decorating information and resources. And, to helping visitors find the best decorating products at economical prices. The site also features a free newsletter, and free 20MB community web sites.

---

How to Make Roman Shades

Roman shades are a simple and elegant window treatment to... Read More

Kids Ceiling Fans

There are ceiling fans designed especially for children, which have... Read More

Tips on Budget Decorating

Home decorating on a budget is the ultimate adventure in... Read More

Beautiful Lighting Tips 101 - A Crash Course in Lighting Design

Many people cannot immediately identify why they may like or... Read More

Make Simple Curtains and Valance for any Window

Making a quick set of curtains and a valance is... Read More

Custom Slipcovers Can Give Your Furniture A Stylish New Look

If your furniture could do with a new look, then... Read More

Buying Custom Wood Blinds

Window and door blinds on windows and doors are chief... Read More

The Function of Hurricane Shutters

Every part of the world has its share of natural... Read More

Aluminum Mini Blinds

Aluminum blinds are a low-cost and durable solution as a... Read More

Installing Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors can be secured using various installation methods such... Read More

Decorating a Guest Bedroom - Get Out of your Own Way

Decorating a Guest BedroomThe guest bedroom is the one room... Read More

Black and White Themed Teen Bedroom Decorating Ideas

When we found out we were having twins, our teenage... Read More

Why Silk Plants Instead Of The Real Thing?

Should I buy silk plants and flowers for my home... Read More

Tribal Persian Rugs

Tribal or nomadic rugs are produced by nomadic and semi-nomadic... Read More

Decorating A Childs Room

Decorating your child's room should be fun and exciting for... Read More

Home Care for the Monsoon

Given that the monsoon season lasts for a few months... Read More

What are HEPA Air Filters?

The Environmental Protection Agency has determined that almost 90% of... Read More

Reasons to Consider a Professional Designer for Your Interior Decorating Project

When one is considering a new look for an existing... Read More

Tips for Taking Care of Fine Wood Furniture

Now that you have purchased some fine wood furniture, it... Read More

Ambient Orb or Mathmos Color Bubble

The Mathmos Color Bubble is made by Mathmos - the... Read More

Summer Every Season

Ahhh, the sumptuous days of summer. Clear skies, green lawns,... Read More

A Look at Computer Desks for Children

Children's use of the computer has increased tremendously. To meet... Read More

What Should You Know About House Flooring

Having a nice house is everyone dreams. In fact, everybody... Read More

Craft Projects - A Home Decorating One Of A Kind Look

Have you been in a craft store or maybe gone... Read More

Rustic Country Decor - How to Decorate Cottage Style Homes

Rustic country decor and how to decorate cottage style homes... Read More

Feng Shui Interprets Exposed Beams

What constitutes a balanced room according to feng shui theory... Read More

Feng Shui Decorating Guidelines

The importance of following feng shui decorating guidelines.Feng shui decorating... Read More

How Do You Choose Art for Your Home?

You have just moved into a new home. Perhaps it's... Read More

The Increased Popularity of Granite Kitchen Countertops

The popularity of granite kitchen countertops has increased dramatically in... Read More

Amish Furniture A Piece Of American Pride

Over the past several months I have been actively working... Read More

Dining Chair Slipcovers ? A Great Way to Impress Your Dinner Guests!

Planning a dinner party but worried what your guests will... Read More

Country Home Decorating ? Country Style Home Decor the Way Life Used to Be

What is the lure and appeal of country home decorating?... Read More

Wood Baker?s Rack - Add Style to Your Kitchen

Is your kitchen or dining area missing that little bit... Read More