Get Inspired by Far East Decor for Chinese New Year

Far East meets West Coast in the home decor department

Gung hay fat choy! With Chinese New Year almost here (February 19), asian influence will be all around. If you’re feeling especially inspired by the holiday, this home decor takes its cue from the Far East. Celebrate revered symbols and motifs in the Year of the Sheep.

Bold Golds

Yellow is the symbolic colour of the five legendary emperors of imperial china. Gold is traditionally a sign of lavishness and wealth, and was even given as gifts to newborns and newlyweds, as it held more value than money.

Bamboo is another traditional symbol, celebrating characteristics like uprightness, integrity and tenacity.

Gold Bamboo Mirror: This vintage-style mirror delivers on both fronts and can be hung vertically or horizontally. $205 at Pottery Barn Kids

Red to Ring in the New Year

Symbolizing good fortune and joy, red can be seen everywhere during Chinese New Year celebrations, from decorations to good luck envelopes. Whether incorporated into the home via strategic red accessories or painted on a feature wall, auspicious rouge makes a statement.

Smeg Refrigerator (left): This 1950s-style fridge is old fashioned on the outside, but state of the art on the inside. $2,616 at West Elm

Hi Turn (right): Designed by the owner of Inform Interiors, Niels Bendtsen, the Bensen Hi Turn is a high-back descendant of the U Turn Lounger, swivelling smoothly through 360 degrees. Price between $2,693 and $3,575 at Inform

Go Goldfish

Fish in general are a sign of abundance (the Chinese word for fish “yu” is a homophone for abundance and affluence), but goldfish – also associated with gold, of course – bring homes health, wealth and prosperity. Add to the space as a single or in multiples to adjust the feng shui.

Goldfish wall décor (left): Made in China, the fancy breed of goldfish is polyresin cast. $39 at Moe’s Homes

Stan the goldfish wall hanging (right): This gilded swimmer looks great in a school and adds character to the space. $14.95 at CB2

Year of the Sheep

2015 is the Year of the Sheep, Goat or Ram in the Chinese zodiac, which makes figurines and statues in this likeness the perfect way to pay homage to a year celebrating one of Chinese culture’s favourite animals.

Hand Carved Stone Ram (left): Carved of bluestone as a rustic interpretation of the guardian animals at the tombs of 13 Ming Dynasty Emperors in Beijing. $209 at Restoration Hardware

Goldie the Wall Hanging Sheep (right): Designed exclusively for CB2 by Robert and Cortney Novogratz, Goldie is made of white polyresin with gorgeous gilded curved horns. $79.95

Enter the Dragon (Motifs)

A powerful creature in Chinese mythology and folklore, the dragon traditionally symbolizes strength and auspiciousness.

Asian Dream teapot (left), teacup and saucer: Opulent dinnerware set from Rosenthall Meets Versace, depicting the legendary figure of Asian mythology. Each piece features four small medallions representing the sun. Prices available upon request at Versace Home

New Moon Collection tableware (right): Decorated with the dragon and the phoenix, symbols of prosperity and good fortune. Price: $9 – $65 at Williams-Sonoma