How to Decorate Ethnic

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FIVE EASY STEPS TO DECORATING ETHNIC

NEW YORK, NY - With all that is happening in the world today - the threat of war, falling stock prices, a recession (in spite of what economists say) - more and more of us are nesting. That is, we are spending more time at home.

While it is hard to control what happens in the outside world, home is where you decide the who, what, where, when and why. Ethnic decor is filled with endless options to spice up your living space. However, you may wonder, what is ethnic decor.

"Ethnic decor is more a feeling than a science," says Marcelo Velez of the interior design firm Velez Hayes in New York City. "When you say modern, country, French, et cetera, an instant picture comes to mind. Ethnic decor is different. Many cannot define it, but know it when they see it."

This open-ended approach is what makes ethnic decorating fun. It's eclectic, inclusive, colorful and most of all, unique. It allows you to fill in blanks for yourself, using an internal palette to satisfy decorating needs.

Here are five handy ideas to get you started:

Pick a room to start: Thinking in terms of one room narrows your scope so the project doesn't seem overwhelming, while also limiting cost as you feel your way into the project.

Decide which ethnicity(ies) you will focus on: African style is different from Middle Eastern is different from American Indian, et cetera. However, don't be afraid to blend elements from several cultures. Again, that's the fun of ethnic decor - the possibilities are endless.

Start with an object as the focal point and decorate around it: This can be an ethnic painting, a sculpture, a piece of furniture, et cetera. The bigger the better. Be careful, though, not to overwhelm your space.

Choose a color scheme: Ethnic decor is very festive, so think outside the box in terms of colors, patterns, surfaces. Soon, you will find yourself drawn to a few colors that work well together.

Listen to your likes and dislikes; your instincts: Many times, an object or color will "speak" to you. And, if everyone insists that this painting doesn't go with that rug, but you like it, go with it. The final product should make you the happiest.

Now, relax and enjoy!

About The Author

Yuwanda & Cassandra Black are co-owners of EthnicHomeDecor.com. Ethnic Home Decor offers soft home furnishings with ethnic themes at affordable prices. For more information or to schedule an interview, send email to media@EthnicHomeDecor.com.

yuwanda@ethnichomedecor.com

News

Design Consultation
Miryam Brewer can help you with your design needs. Call for a consultation.

Choosing Colors?
It can be frustrating choosing the right color. Let me help!

New Home... What Now?
Miryam Brewer can help you with space planning, integrating existing furniture & finding new furniture for your new home.

Remodeling your Home or Business?
Get guidance & experience while you choose new surfaces, cabinets, lighting, and more.

Window Treatments
Need to update your shades or draperies? Miryam Brewer will help you find the best fit and style for your space.

Need a Design Plan?
Miryam Brewer can help you prioritize your design needs & put together a design plan for you to follow.

Finishing touches on your home or business
Let Miryam Brewer help you find the right artwork, lamp, area rug, or accessory for your home or business.

On a Budget?
Miryam Brewer can help you create a budget for your interior design needs & stay within it.

Fresh Look
Update your living or work space. Call Miryam Brewer to provide you with a fresh new look.

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