Travel-inspired decorating

Whether you're an armchair traveler or a true adventurer, bringing your favourite fantasy looks home is easier than you think. Design has the power to transport you to exotic or romantic realms, as you fancy; capturing the styles that inspire. This is particularly good news for those whose vacation time seems far, far away. Here are some suggestions on how you can create that dream destination atmosphere right at home.

The Do's and Don'ts of Travel-Inspired Decorating

DO create a valid adaptation of your favourite style by incorporating a region's indigenous colours. Aqua blues and greens are reminders of carefree Caribbean afternoons, pretty pastels accented with crisp white echo Miami Beach, while spicy oranges and saffron yellows suggest exotic India.

DO rely on authentic fabrics (think Indian-inspired paisley's for French country rooms) as a main indicator of a style and location. Large-scale blue and white checks on linen or cotton are a staple in Swedish interiors, intricate jacquards and delicate brocades are essential to formal western European looks, and oak leaves and naïve animals adorn the printed textiles typically found in Alsatian and Bavarian homes.

DO make room for furnishings that look well-traveled or well-loved. A Turkish table with inlaid mother-of-pearl and ivory suggests a trip to Morocco or Turkey, while a vintage trunk may have traveled on the Queen Mary.

DON'T copy any regional style literally or you run the risk of developing "Epcot Syndrome". Santa Fe style looks perfectly appropriate in New Mexico and works very well in Arizona and Los Angeles, but it may fall somewhat short in eastern Canada where geography and light are vastly different. Terracotta tiles, Navajo rugs, and religious iconography can however mix well (and look appropriate) when combined with other classic American-style furnishings.

DON'T mix more than 2-3 styles within a single room and it's also important to consider compatibility. For example, painted Pennsylvania Dutch furniture will work beautifully with casual Canadiana or country styles but is not a match for more formal decor.

DON'T paint the exterior of your home with colours found in a foreign region. Since this is a public space it should harmonize with other neighborhood homes.

DON'T forget that original artwork should be at the top of every traveler's shopping list. Unframed pieces are nearly indestructible, fit easily into suitcases, and carry fond memories for years to come.