Created by skilled artisans, it is similar to wicker in its durability and comfort level. Common furniture items created from bamboo include chairs, tables, swings, and settees. Due to bamboo’s lightweight properties, this type of furniture is rather easy to position and organize as desired. Bamboo is also commonly used in decorative, artistic pieces. It is commonly featured in planters, wastebaskets, jewelry boxes, and even dishware. The aforementioned items can vary greatly in pricing. The size of a bamboo piece, as well as the amount of true bamboo in the object, will affect how expensive or affordable a particular item is.

Instruments are also commonly constructed from bamboo. This practice originated in Asian countries due to the fact that bamboo is sturdy and does not break when placed under duress. Because these instruments require a particular level of skill and time to create, they are rather expensive. However, they also tend to be passed down from one family member to another. Even if an individual does not play an instrument, a bamboo instrument can be prominently displayed in on a wall or in a cabinet as a showpiece.

Bamboo is a flexible wood, and it is even used as flooring in homes. However, it will enhance whatever decorating scheme it is incorporated into. It is most commonly accented in décor with colors of green, blue, and other natural earth tones. Although this material has increased in popularity, it may be difficult to locate in some parts of the country. Online retailers that specialize in Asian merchandise will most likely have the bamboo items that a homeowner will be looking for. The amount of effort that an individual puts into searching for their piece will be well worth it.

Product Spotlight:

The Gaiam exclusive rollable screen is strong, elegant and flexible, just like the bamboo stalks used to create it. Made from eco-friendly, pesticide-free bamboo, it conforms to any space, then rolls neatly away when not in use. The elegant curved shapes you create form the sturdy structural support. Treated with a nontoxic water-based finish but suggested for indoor use. Reinforced edges. 8′W x 6′H (96″W x 71″H). 26.5 lb. Height may vary between 71″ and 72″.

Price: $209.00

All the lights and fixtures in the Asiana collection feature a beautiful roasted chestnut wood finish along with wilshire glass.

Asiana Six-Light Chandelier

Asiana Nine-Light Chandelier

Asiana Mini Pendant

Asiana Bowl Pendant

Asiana Trestle Pendant

Asiana Three-Light Pendant

Asiana Dome Pendant

1. The elephant is a majestic animal and in Asian culture it is symbol of strength and astuteness. An image of an elephant being ridden depicts happiness. Because elephants were owned by kinds and royalty, and thought to be ridden by the gods – they are also a symbol of power. In some cultures, an elephant with a raised trunk is symbolic of good luck, and indicates that you will persevere and overcome any obstacles in your path. Elephant sculptures and wall-mounts are a great way to decorate a foyer or entry into your home.

2. The tiger – in most parts of the world, it is the lion that is revered as the king of the wild animal kingdom. The lion is often referred to as the ‘King of the Jungle”. Well in Asian culture – the tiger trumps the lion. The tiger is one of the 12 animals represented in the Chinese zodiac and is a symbol of royalty, courage, bravery and fearlessness.

3. The crane is a beautiful symbol of honor, loyalty and strength in Japanese culture. The crane is a bird that mates for life making images of the animal a popular feature in traditional Asian or Asian inspired weddings. It is believed that the person who is able to fold 1,000 (origami) cranes will be granted their greatest wish. Imagery of two cranes in the home of a newly married couple isn’t uncommon, place your paintings, sculptures, plaques, etc in rooms where you spend a lot of time with your mate as you will be always reminded of the loyalty in marriage.

4. The phoenix is a mythological sacred bird that symbolizes eternal life, beauty, fire and divinity. It is said that at the end of it’s life cycle, the phoenix builds a nest of cinnamon twigs. It ignites and burns – yet from the ashes rises a new phoenix in an egg of myrrh. It is also said that if a phoenix is wounded, it has the ability to self-regenerate – these things make the phoenix an eternal creature. In Asian tradition, the phoenix also represents the five human qualities; virtue, duty, humanity, reliability and proper behavior. The phoenix is a powerful symbol for strength and the ability to overcome.

5. The dragon, when alone is a symbol of male virility, the emperor, power and is generally regarded as a powerful creature. In Asian culture, the dragon is a benevolent figure – where as in European folklore, dragons are feared and often portrayed as ‘evil’. However when the dragon is coupled with the phoenix it takes on a whole new meaning. The dragon and phoenix paired together symbolize the perfect unity of male and female, or the yin and the yang. They are both powerful creatures that can withstand anything when put together, this represents a man and his wife overcoming all of life’s challenges when sticking together. It also symbolizes matriarchal and patriarchal good fortune, success in joint endeavors and blessed offspring. In Feng Shui, if you are a single man or woman looking to unite and find true love – symbols of the dragon and phoenix paired together should increase that vibrational energy of strong relationships in your home.

1. Defining rooms and spaces: If you live in a smaller apartment or studio style apartment, you will likely find yourself searching for creative ways to define one space from another. Shoji screens are perfect for this very thing. You can stylishly divide your sleeping area from your entertainment area, or your closet from your kitchen. The possibilities are endless.

2. Establishing a changing area: Whether you share sleeping quarters with a roommate or spouse, there may come a time when you just want to change your clothes in private for a variety of reasons. If your bedroom is large enough to accommodate the average sized shoji screen – this definitely adds the privacy you are looking for as well as a contemporary design touch.

3. Asian inspired interior design theme: If you are planning to redecorate an existing room into an Asian inspired style, a shoji screen is a must have accessory. Be you designing an eating area, bedroom or entertaining space – these room dividers make it very easy to bring a bit of authenticity into your home decorating concept.

Shoji screens are available in different sizes, made of different materials and with a variety of patterns and prints. For smaller rooms, a 2 panel screen gives you the look you want, but fits into the space you have available. They also come in larger four or six panel screens. These are great for master suites and entertaining areas.

For most homes, Asian bathroom design consists of lights, mainly overhead lamps and sconce that add a unique flare. Although fluorescent lamps are part of the lighting fixtures, they often use soft-glow types that give off a cooler light rather than incandescent bulbs.

The main layout for the bathroom was inspired from most American and European designs, added to a more Asian flair that would call their own. Screens and more vibrant colors when it comes to the floor tiles and walls gives off an optical illusion of having more room. Although some Asian bathroom designs would resemble a 4-star hotel in terms of modern elegance, the very essence of the design is simply derived from nature. Some flora is introduced, while waterproof wallpaper with bamboo prints give color to the walls. This can also include wood tiles and mahogany from other Asian countries for the counter top and a small armoire.

The main shower area and tub are designed depending on the country of origin, which can be circular like the Japanese or wide like the Chinese. Of course the rich would introduce a small above-ground pool for the main purpose of soaking in hot water, as well as lavish it off with some orchids to create a more natural look. With the mixture of both modern and classic, most modern jet-streamed tubs are placed in a central location, according to the feng shui belief that the center is the very heart that revolves around everything.

Simple fixtures, mainly of faucets, shower heads and booths may sometimes be imported, while designs from local bathroom designers are inspired by using the available floor space of a typical Asian home. This is well suited for small bathrooms that upon entering would have everything within arm’s reach without too much clutter. For the wall to place a mirror to, they can be large, considering the vanity of most Asians and how they can be conscious about their looks.

Decoration is revolved mainly of plants, with some wood for frames and screens and a large portion is concentrated simply for the floor. Tiles sold in Asia have several patterns, which custom made ones can be ordered like that of a jigsaw puzzle, to create a mosaic effect.

Although a number of American homes may have a touch of European and American styles, the Asian bathroom décor is becoming a big hit, considering the need to have a bathroom with all the necessary items and fixtures without walking too much. The Asian bathroom design is for those with small homes, yet emphasizes mainly on the bathroom as the centerpiece.

For more bathroom design ideas, visit http://www.bathroomdesignideas101.com

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