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by With Danna Hu, architect
Glance around your living room. If the only Asian artifact you see is a television set, it might be time to widen your horizons.
"Chinese art and furnishings are timeless," says Dannu Hu, an architect and interior designer based in Taiwan. "Their classic lines and textures make them extremely versatile. They really do work well in almost any setting--from contemporary to traditional."
Flip through an interior design magazine and you'll see she's right. Atop the mantle, a simple Chinese vase. Over in the corner, a single Ming chair. In fact, one you start looking for it, you'll notice the Asian influence everywhere: offices, restaurants, and especially, hotels.
So how can you add a touch of the Orient to your home? Danna suggests starting small.
"A room full of only Chinese furniture and decorative items tends to be hard and uninviting," she says. "So I prefer to use only a few pieces."
You might start out with something simple as a bowl, she says. But don't be deceived. A single piece can make a powerful statement.
"Picture an interior, clean, simple and perhaps a bit sterile," she says. "But add the beauty of a Chinese bowl in an oxblood hue and see how just one piece can bring color, warmth and depth to a room."
A few samples of Chinese embroidery can be framed and hung in groups to spice up otherwise bland walls, while the simple lines of a Chinese teapot can add intrigue to a bookshelf.
What if your décor is formal, perhaps classically French? No problem, says Danna. "A Chinese vase or tall coromandel screen blends wonderfully with the chandeliers, moldings and bright floral patterns," she explains. "And these pieces also make the room feel culturally rich."
One of Dana's favorite design tricks is to use traditional Chinese pieces in untraditional ways.
"Chinese beds combined with large, colorful pillows make great conversation pieces," she says. "And they're a unique way to lounge."
Porcelain garden stools can find new life as bedside tables. Wood-grained kitchen cabinets neatly hide away stereo components. And while you're at it, ever thought of using an ornate clothes chest as a coffee table?
"The secret is finding just the right piece for your room," Danna explains. "And, of course, half the fun is in the hunt."
Where should you dig? An obvious choice is Chinatown. Almost every big city has one and where better to unearth authentic Chinese treasures than in the heart of the Chinese community? And as a bonus, prices there are generally better than in posh downtown showrooms.
"Whether antiques or replicas, Chinese decorative pieces can enhance and enrich any setting," says Danna. "And there's something unique that happens when you combine Eastern and Western styles. Your home becomes a tangible symbol of harmony between cultures."
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