Origin: The Ottoman Empire, from around the 14th century, still influencing Turkish interiors today
Ottoman interiors are tied to the homes and palaces of the Ottoman Empire. Recognisable features are Iznik tile with blue and red patterns, curved arches, carved or painted ceilings, timber lattice windows, low sofas along the walls (sedir) and patterned rugs and cushions. Coloured glass lamps and brass lamps give a warm light with many shadows.
In Vietnam, patterned ceramic tile, a patterned wall panel, an arched doorway, a coloured glass lamp and a modern kilim rug can evoke the Ottoman character without covering everything. Keep a pale cream wall base and use pattern in one or two places. Wool rugs absorb damp in the humid season, so air and dehumidify them; in narrow townhouses a bench with drawers saves space and echoes the sedir.
