AAPI culture transcends borders and often influences furnishing and decor. Check out some recent interior design trends shaped by Asian American and Pacific Islander culture.

Feng Shui and Spatial Arrangement

You've probably heard of this interior design practice throughout the US. Originally from China, the practice we know as feng shui is based on the belief that the way we arrange objects affects energy flow and influences health, wealth, and fortune. Harmonizing your surroundings for the most organized and optimal living space can help make any space more relaxing. Clearing clutter can be a simple and effective way to clear obstructed areas and allow energy to flow better. The best, most impactful way to practice feng shui in the home is by positioning furniture and objects in a balanced way to facilitate positive energy flow. This includes facing the bed away from doors and placing desks in the area that provides the best view of the room.

Zen Gardens and Meditation Spaces

Meditation as a spiritual practice has gained traction over the last few years. Meditative practices are often associated with Asian spiritual practices. The most notable of these practices is Buddhism. Meditation is a central practice encompassing mindfulness, concentration, and loving-kindness. Whether in a spacious home or roomy lawn, people have found it worthwhile to add a dedicated space for a zen garden or meditation. Being intentional about space and dedicating it to peace and mindfulness can help promote a more relaxed home.

Bold Colors and Patterns

Bright colors and intricate patterns are staples in AAPI-influenced designs. Asian and Pacific Island cultures both share a love for bright colors. Red symbolizes good luck and prosperity in Asian cultures and vitality in the Pacific Islands. In East Asia and India, blue often symbolizes immortality and eternity, whereas the Pacific Islands use it to allude to the sea and the sky. From Asian cultures, we see a plethora of beautiful, intricate floral patterns in bold colors. Cloud motifs and geometric patterns can also be seen in textiles and decorative arts. Most notably, in Samoan culture, we see a lot of intricate geometric patterns in their traditional tattoo patterns. Adding any of these elements to your design creates a lively and dynamic atmosphere.

Indoor-Outdoor Living

The tropical climates of the Pacific Islands have enabled Pacific Islanders to engage with the terrain year-round. Tame weather lets people merge the outdoors and indoors with ease. Big windows, sliding doors, and easily accessible outdoor areas let you flow between the two spaces with minimal obstruction. If the weather permits, bridging the gap between the outdoors facilitates a deeper bond to nature.

Happy AAPI Heritage Month!