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In this post, I want to go into a little more detail about a type of home decor that won my heart on my travels, the balinese furniture style.
What Is The Balinese Style?
First and foremost, it’s the style that you find in Bali. Ha ha!
Yeah, but really. You should probably know a little bit more about Bali first. It’s one of the most famous of the many (MANY) islands of Indonesia, a large and populous nation in Southeast Asia.
People often have associate Bali closely with its unique heritage and culture, much of which has persisted to this very day, people from all over the world flock to its beaches (south and west for parties, east for snorkeling, north for dolphins), and to my personal favorite, its rice fields. I try to go whenever I can, just to relax and recharge a bit from the stresses of life. Rarely in the sixty countries I’ve been to have I found a more peaceful and reinvigorating place.
This unique culture generally practices a religion that incorporates animism with hinduism, with buddhist influences. In case you might haven’t heard of it before, in animism, it is generally believed that everything in nature possesses a soul or spirit. This includes not only living beings like humans and animals but also natural phenomena such as rivers, mountains, and rocks. This both comes from and creates a unique culture and society, and you can trace its history through the cultural artifacts produced, the music, the dance, the religious art and temples.
Ok, So What About Balinese Furniture?
When it comes to furniture, the Balinese style is all about embracing nature and creating a serene but exotic atmosphere. If you’d try to find some qualities that define this style, they might be: Balinese, natural materials, intricate carvings, tropical motifs, and earthy color palette.
Obviously Balinese furniture is Balinese, it’s the story of a society, it’s the story of a culture, of a religion, which is transmitted through their crafts.
Next is the the natural materials such as teak wood, bamboo, rattan, and wicker. If you want to get to know teak wood a bit more, take a look at this post. These materials not only add a touch of authenticity in terms of appearance, but tie the furniture to the land using materials that you might find locally on the island or on a neighboring one. These sorts of materials also impart warmth and texture to the space.
Then we get to the intricate carvings which feature prominently. Skilled artisans create beautiful patterns on the furniture pieces, drawing from the collective symbols of the people and wedding that to their own individual taste and personal flair, adding a sense of artistry and craftsmanship. Tropical motifs are often incorporated into such designs. From palm leaves to exotic flowers, these motifs bring a sense of lushness and vibrancy to the work and environment.
The color palette in Balinese style is typically earthy tones like browns, beiges, greens, and blues. These colors help create a calming and peaceful ambiance inspired by the natural surroundings of Bali.
Overall, the Balinese style in furniture embraces nature’s beauty while incorporating intricate details and tropical elements. It’s perfect for those who want to bring a touch of exoticism into their home or create a tranquil retreat inspired by Bali’s serene landscapes.
How Can You Use It At Home?
If you’re looking to add a touch of exotic elegance to your home, Balinese furniture is the way to go, when used correctly, it can transform a space. Let’s look at some possible use cases:
One way to incorporate Balinese furniture into your home decor is by using it as statement pieces. A statement piece is that one eye-catching item that instantly grabs attention and sets the tone for the entire room. Whether it’s a bold, vibrant sofa or a unique, sculptural coffee table, a statement piece adds personality and flair to your home. It’s the conversation starter, the focal point that reflects your style and taste. A beautifully carved Balinese bed or a handcrafted teak dining table can instantly play this role and become the focal point of any room. Pair it with neutral colors and natural textures to create a harmonious balance.
Another option is to mix and match different pieces of Balinese furniture throughout your home. Incorporate the elements that we spoke about, such as intricately carved cabinets, ornate and earth-toned mirrors, or even traditional batik textiles as wall hangings.
Batik textiles are a form of fabric art that originated in Indonesia. The word “batik” itself means “wax writing” in Javanese, which perfectly describes the unique technique used to create these beautiful textiles. The process of making batik involves applying wax to the fabric in specific patterns or designs, which then acts as a resist when the fabric is dyed. This results in stunning and detailed patterns with a distinct crackled appearance. This mix and match style will create an eclectic and bohemian atmosphere that reflects the vibrant spirit of Bali in a modern context.
Don’t forget about outdoor spaces! Balinese furniture is perfect for creating a serene oasis in your backyard or patio. Add some comfortable lounge chairs, a teak coffee table, and lush greenery for a tranquil retreat right at home.
Conclusion
To sum up, incorporating Balinese furniture into your home decor allows you to bring a piece of Bali’s unique culture and craftsmanship into your everyday life. So why not infuse some tropical vibes into your space with these stunning pieces? Teak is all the rage nowadays, if you’re interested, take a look at why teak furniture might be a wise investment.