Juxtaposing traditional with contemporary elements is a great way to create an impression. With global travel influencing interior design ideals, converging Eastern and Western cultures under one roof has grown to become a popular trend. The contrast that arises when the old meets the new is necessarily invigorating and provocative. Wanting to follow this trend, but don’t know if you are doing it right? Here are some easy tips to ace this East-meets-West look.

Introduce Asian lattice panels amid modern designs

Punctuate a space with signature Asian designs by ushering in beautiful wooden lattice panels. Commission these panels on a wall to create an interesting feature wall. You can even use them as headboards in a master suite. With a little imagination, these intricate pieces can beautify just about any space.

Here, a pair of decorative wooden lattice panels lends Asian mien to a Western-dominated interior. The exquisite panels stand out from the rest of the design, as well as demarcate the dining area. Lattice patterns are also a great breakaway from conservative outlines in the space. This is an example of how opposite styles can come together to create something far more compelling than either is capable of on its own. (Design: Sky Creation)

Balance colours

Asian homes are filled with vivid and rich hues. To create a home with mixed influences, combine saturated oriental colours with subdued colours to achieve a soothing balance. Warm colours like red, orange, gold and even deep green or purple are well acquainted with the Asian culture. Accent your space with these colours to complement other elements that suggest an Eastern heritage for continuity.

Mix antique furniture with modern pieces

Some of the best East-meets-West looks are built on an underlying clean-lined contemporary theme, but layered with oriental appeal. Moderation is key when doing so. Introduce antique furniture in a modern setting, but avoid having too many antique pieces in the same space if you don’t want a décor that reads heavy.

A Chinese canopy bed in the bedroom or a pair of antique chairs with traditional motifs in the living room, are great additions amid contemporary pieces. Placing an oriental vase on a trendy pedestal, or an embroidered silk throw pillow on a modish armchair are some ways to place elements from each culture together to create interest. Be bold in incorporating ornate motifs upholstery in a modern space. Conversely, hang a classical chandelier in an Asian-inspired home design. Either way, the harmonious confluence of opposites will be the envy of many.

Bring in artwork

Artwork with an Asian theme can range from calligraphy to scenes that bear imagery of pagodas, bamboos, dragons and kimonos. These pieces are best juxtaposed against an elegantly-laid European-inspired space, or a space that simply place emphasis on clean-lined modernism for the greatest impact. On the other hand, adorn an Asian-inspired home with modern abstract artwork.

Let in nature

Think cascading water features that enhance a home’s Feng Shui, bamboo blinds in place of curtains and potted bonsai trimmed to perfection. These are little additions that command attention and look great in a minimalist interior. Bringing in some natural elements is a sure way to inject Asian character rather effortlessly.