East Meets West – Asian Kitchen Design
Asian kitchens are truly elegant and symmetrical in nature due to the fine attention to finish and detail. If you’re looking to get the same clean, sleek look, make sure you know the right colors to use, decorations, and materials. Consistency and symmetry are two of the most important qualities of an Asian kitchen. Here are some guidelines for yours.
The materials
Bamboo immediately creates a wonderful Asian feel in your kitchen. You can use bamboo independently as a plant decoration. However, other more creative ideas would be to divide it and then cover the cabinets, a part of the wall or the chairs. You can also tile the lower countertop or sink areas of your island. Smaller bamboo stalks with leaves can be glued to cabinet doors and over-the-sink areas for a Japanese touch.
Silk is very versatile and adds some Chinese influence to your Asian kitchen. You can buy silk with beautiful patterns and hang them on the wall. Other silks, preferably dark red, orange, and pink, can be made into tablecloths, doilies, and coasters. Install a wooden frame above the island counter and hang white silk along with pots, pans, and utensils.
Chrome is very popular among Asians. Choose chrome, silver, or gold-plated pans, pots, and utensils. You can also select your refrigerator, oven, stoves, and sinks this way. Complement the handles and knobs of the drawers by choosing the chrome ones. The shine of this material will help add elegance and symmetry that you are trying to create.
Asian colors and decorations
Popular Asian colors are red, white, black, and dark brown. To add an oriental touch, use a bit of gold on red or black on red. Silver also provides a refreshing accent. Chrome cookware, pots and pans will provide a nice contrast. Use 3-4 main colors maximum. You may want to use plants as well to neutralize everything. A single flower in a vase is elegant enough. Assorted fruits in a large bowl or plate also look great.
Placing chopsticks, Thai toothpicks, and other native pieces will complement your overall theme. Utility rice chests are very aesthetic and useful. Hand-forged iron items are also very bold, so you may want to use one or two at the most. You can store seasonings in them when not in use. Feel free to add or mix furniture with different Asian influences. Japanese cabinets will continue to provide a warm effect next to the exotic woodwork from Korea.