THE FABRICS
At their most extreme, ethnic-themed fabrics are the loudest in pattern, the brightest in color and the most heavily embroidered of any decor style, so even used in small doses they can lend an instant air of exoticism to almost any home.

Bold, vibrant and jeweled, ethnic fabrics used in the form of just a few accessories-such as cushions or curtains-can introduce a sense of ethnic style without necessitating a whole new scheme. Use the color palette as a guide and remember that your choice of texture depends on which country you want to emulate most: silks, organzas and open-weave muslins suit the Indian theme, while heavy velvets add a Moroccan feel. Have fun experimenting with mixing richly patterned fabrics with plains to achieve a balance that suits your own taste. Indian fabrics tend to feature paisley motifs, gold and silver embroidery, lots of hand-embroidered beading and even tiny mirrors hand-stitched in place for added sparkle. Use traditional Indian imagery of temples, elephant and gods if you prefer a more patterned end result. Moroccan fabrics generally rely on texture and block-printed motifs for interest and have a richer yet more subdued look. Geometric Moroccan star motifs work brilliantly used on selective soft furnishings.

THE KITCHEN
Experimentation is the key to creating an ethnic-style kitchen. Use hot tropical shades for cupboards. The kitchen in the average Moroccan and Indian home is basic by European or American standards, with an open wood-burning oven just as likely to appear as a modern gas or electric appliance, but the fact that there are no definitive guidelines as to how to recreate the look actually frees you to play with color and accessories rather than opting for a radical overhaul-a big bonus for those on a budget. Using dark wood units is the key. However, mid-toned rustic wood finishes can easily be given an ethnic twist with and add it ion of saffron walls and traditional ethnic accessories, including brass and tin cookware, wooden gourds and hand painted tiles.

LIVING ROOM
A sense of drama and intimacy is essential in the ethnic living room. These are not really practical options for everyday life, so look for low-level sofas in minimalist designs-with a low back and no arms if possible-but in deep upholstery shades such as wine red, which you can then accessorize with lots of scatter cushions. These should be richly embroidered, beaded or even have tiny mirrors sewn on the front. Moroccan homes also feature mosaic-topped side and coffee tables on narrow, pole-style iron legs or round, beaten-brass side tables. Our ethnic-style living room features opulent jewel tones on every surface, set against the richness of dark wood furniture. The gold paisley motif on the walls is pure Indian style, too, and can be applied by hand with a rubber stamp.  Dark color furniture with bright accessories is must to create the ethnic look in the living room. For instance, a dark color coffee table with bright and vivid red glass candle holders will work.