8. Decorating with a World Flair:

Given modern travel and technology, our oceans have shrunk and the boundaries between nations have all but faded, and the result is a greater influx than ever of fresh and energizing ideas. Today you can celebrate a number of cultures without ever having to leave your home by decorating with a world flair. A mix of elements -- be they Asian, Swedish, or Indian -- imbue a room with memorable presence and personality.

Swedish:

Swedish style concocts a light of its own with rooms painted luminous shades of icy blue or muted white.

Moroccon:

Search out throws, floor pillows dazzling enough for a Bedouin tent, and inexpensive but carefully chosen artifacts.

Japanese:

Japanese aesthetic provides a calming, Zen-like atmosphere, which is just what we need to relieve the stress of everyday pressures. For this kind of timeless decorating, a less-is-more approach works best.