Adding an element or two in an Asian flavor will add a touch of spice.

Asian design can be neutral and calm – or ornate and colorful. It’s your choice.

Many people think of Asian home design elements as simply Chinese rugs and Japanese screens. But there’s so much more. The continent also includes the countries and cultures of Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Indonesia and Vietnam, and South Asia, primarily India.

These countries have both an ancient design aesthetic and a growing 21st century vibe. Today’s Asian design elements range from simple, monochromatic pieces to wildly patterned and colored designs.

You can start small with an ornamental bonsai tree, beautiful celadon dishware, painted lacquer ware or ceramic vases in many shapes and sizes. Or go bigger with a folding screen that acts as a divider between rooms, an accent piece sitting in the corner of a room, or a piece of wall art.

Japanese and Chinese ceramic stools are readily available, both in new versions and antiques, and add a beautiful Asian touch in your home or garden – to provide extra seating or a place to set a drink or snack.

Asian wall art offers so many possibilities, including ornately carved wood panels, landscape murals painted on silk, and wall hangings painted with calligraphy. And on the floor, there’s the possibility of oriental rugs, tatami mats and bamboo flooring.

Antique Asian furniture from almost all of the continent is fascinating, often with a blend of Asian design and European colonial influence. And in many countries, artisans are making new furniture out of recycled wood that originally adorned temples and houses.