This is a book about originality and practical ideas; a return to quirky interiors where the most important elements are bright, beautiful colour, natural materials and traditional crafts. After an introduction outlining and exploring what ethnic style is today, the first section, "International Ethnic" includes photographic examples of some of the best ethnic interiors from around the world. Individual chapters summarize the distinctive interior styles of five continents, from Singapore to Scandinavia, Mexico to Morocco, Bangkok to Bombay, drawing comparisons and highlighting contrasts. The second part, "Creating the Look", is broken down into individual chapters on wood, cane and wicker, paint (walls, furniture and floors), plaster and stone, textiles and ceramics. Full advice is given on how to take ethnic decorative elements and use them to best effect.