Chinese-styled decor features rich colors and exotic prints, but is also traditional in design. There are three design principles found in Chinese décor: nature, energy and simplicity. Using each of these principles will help you put together a beautiful living room that enhances the interior of your home. While you should use colors and decor reminiscent of Chinese tradition and culture, it's important that you arrange the room properly to achieve positive energy through the ancient philosophy of feng shui.
Paint the room in traditional Chinese colors. Red is a traditional color, though you may use other bright colors like green or blue. Red symbolizes power and luck, green symbolizes appeasement and blue symbolizes the refinement of the homeowner.
Cover the walls with wallpaper instead of paint, if desired. Look for Chinese-inspired prints, such as those featuring bamboo, calligraphy, carp fish or Chinese flowers.
Place ornate furniture in the space. Chinese furniture is often black and lacquered with plenty of detail and carvings. Wooden pieces may also be painted with red or gold inlays or paintings. Emulate minimal Chinese style by selecting one statement piece for the living room, such as a large coffee table, and using a simple black sofa and chair set to complement it.
Arrange the furniture in the living room to improve the home's energy flow, or feng shui. Face a couch or chair toward the living room door, add lighting into dark corners of the room and place any entertainment devices, including a television or electronic appliance, away from the center of the room. Keep tables neat and free of clutter.
Incorporate elements of nature into the room. Bonsai or bamboo plants in decorative containers can be placed on tables or fireplace mantels. Water is symbolic for positive energy in feng shui, so add an aquarium to the room and fill it with goldfish or set up a water fountain to imbue the space with tranquil ambiance.
Accessorize the space. Cover the floors with an oriental rug, add low lighting around the room with paper lanterns and use embroidered silk for window treatments or throw pillows. Add Chinese-themed decor to the space by placing blue and white teapots, bowls, jars or plates on a table for use during teatime. Install mirrors on the wall opposite a window to increase the natural light in the space.
Hang paper scrolling Chinese brush paintings on the wall to complete the space. Brush paintings come in a variety of styles, including red plum blossoms, bamboo and other trees, flowers, animals, landscapes, zodiac symbols or even calligraphy.
