1. Less is more The East meets West philosophy is about simplifying our lifestyle, says Hoppen. 'Fewer, larger pieces with clean lines work better than a collection of small, but cumbersome pieces of furniture'. We love the Arturian Teak Four Poster Bed (£1,450) from Soto.

2. Ornate focus Create a 'still-life composition' by selecting a strong focal point and building a display around it, suggests Hoppen. Choose a decorative frame, like this elaborate Bhutan Gold Effect Ornate Mirror (£89) from M & S, and set it amid a symmetrical display of candles, pots and trinkets for a decadent yet orderly Eastern feel.

3. Accent colour According to Hoppen, colour will shape your mood more than objects. A neutral background creates a sense of calm; but compliment it with an exclamation of bold, block colour to lift the room. This Pompadour dresser (£312.88) in red, from Maisons du Monde, fulfills that other Eastern prophecy of leading a clutter-free life.

4. Do bamboo 'Rattan, bamboo and all kinds of basket-weave are evocative of traditional life throughout Asia,' says Hoppen. Bring them into your living space in the form of window blinds or accessories. This Bamboo Gentong floor lamp (£75) from The Pier, is not only made from the eco-conscious new wood of choice (bamboo grows very fast), it's also a great way to add scale to a room.

5. Palm haven 'One of the most important decorative elements in Eastern pattern-making is calligraphy,' insists Hoppen. 'It's an art form in itself, and there is as much emphasis on beauty, style and composition as in any other form of paint
ing.' If ancient lettering isn't your thing, achieve a similar feel with the brush strokes of this louche and glamorous Palm Leaves wallpaper (£44 per roll) from IE... Wallpaper.

6. China blue 'Blue and white is one of the most popular colour schemes in Japan, and it has travelled west over the centuries to become a European classic too,' Hoppen says. Add a classic piece of orientaal porcelain to your living room with this Giant Imperial Vase (£135) from Oka.

7. Tree of Eastern life The garden and courtyard have traditionally held a central place in the Eastern home, and bringing nature into the house is believed to create a more peaceful living environment. The bonsai tree represents the Far East's obsession with all things miniature. Grown your own with this Grow It Bonsai Tree box (£12.75) from EZStyle.

9. Tie with tassels 'Think big when it comes to tie-backs, as giant tassels and carved wooden bosses or ombras can add a touch of grandeur or exoticism to the humblest of fabrics,' says Hoppen. Sit tassels low on floor length curtains to create a dramatic effect. We think this Ivory Beaded Dome Tassel and Tieback (£10) from The Pier does the job nicely.

10. Textured drama For the ultimate East-meets-West finish, contrast textures and materials. Hoppen believes 'attention to detail is the vital ingredient that lifts a pleasing interior out of the ordinary and makes it exciting'. She suggests contrasting linen and silk, and introducing pattern and colour in a controlled way'. This Silk Oriental Flower Quilt (£195) from Lombok adds interest to a plain bed.

Annie is an expert furniture and interior design writer. Her current area of specialism is gifts, kitchens and chairs