The Principles and Values of Oriental Furniture

The term “Oriental” (derived from the Latin “orgins,” meaning “east”), when used as an adjective describing modern furniture, refers most often to simple but elegant home furnishings in a distinctive Japanese or Korean style (though of course any Asian culture produces its own unique style of Asian furniture). This Oriental style has recently taken the Western interior design world by storm, and it is featured in many modern American, Canadian, and UK homes.

Oriental furniture is characterized by a minimalist aesthetic that resonates with the principles of Zen Buddhism and natural philosophy. This is the major divide between traditional Eastern and Western furniture designs: Western furniture tends to be very big, loud, ostentatious and ornate with elaborate designs and a palpable “bigger is better” motif. Oriental furniture, on the other hand, values simplicity and functionality over complex artistry. Asian platform beds, nightstands, and even bookshelves are designed to be very simple and useful but nonetheless visually appealing. They say a picture is worth a thousand words (and I don’t plan on writing that much), so check out these pictures and see what I mean.

The principles that underscore Oriental furniture design value harmony with nature above all else. To that end, Asian furniture is styled to optimize good feng shui in your home. Feng shui is the principle that directs the flow of “Chi,” which is a harmonious life-force or energy that resonates within and between all things. Good feng shui is achieved when your furnishings mesh well with their surroundings and are positioned in a way that maximizes the flow of Chi.

Asian furniture is often crafted from rich and sturdy teak wood, though if you want a little more “exotic” flair you can find modern Oriental furniture in gingko, ebony, rose, or kiri wood. The deep and rich lacquered appearance of these furnishings has a soothing, natural, and beautiful appeal that will fit in with almost any modern home design.

Similar Posts:

• Oriental Furniture in the West
• Asian-Style Modern Bedroom Furniture: Defining a “Classic”
• Great Oriental Furniture: Living Rooms, T.V. Stands, and Bookshelves, Oh My!
• Modern Furniture Concepts: the Flower Table by Fatih Can Sarioz
• Modern Bedroom Furniture: Interior Design Zen