Create an exotic look for your home An opulent bedroom that is reminiscent of the mysterious East mixes fabrics from Stroheim & Romann in rich reds and golds from their Connoisseur Paisleys Collection. The fleur-de-lis wallpaper is the perfect backdrop to the rich array of patterned fabrics. If you dream of traveling to far-flung places but simply haven't the time or opportunity, you can create an exotic ambiance in your home through your choice of furnishings and accessories. According to the design experts at Stroheim & Romann, a high-end resource for decorative fabrics, wallpapers and trimmings, adding elements reminiscent of faraway locales can transform a room from bland to sublime. Here are some pointers to help get you started: + If you long for the romance of the mysterious East, opt for paisleys. These richly patterned fabrics, which originated in Kashmir and Persia hundreds of years ago, provide an opulent look. + For a truly exotic room, don't limit the number of patterns to just one or two. Layers of pattern upon pattern convey a richer look. + Rather than opt for a conventional bed, create an air of the exotic with a four-poster bed, lavishly draped with fabrics. Pile on a plethora of pillows in luxurious fabrics. + A mix of accessories and occasional furniture from different corners of the globe adds to an interesting look. Choose pieces inspired by China, India, Morocco, Africa, South America or other distant lands for a sophisticated, global look. + It's often the details that make a room truly special. There is a range of options in trimmings - tassels, fringe, beads, braids and cording - that add a luxe look to any setting. Also play up patterned fabrics by combining them with solid and textured ones for dramatic contrast bandings and accents. + When combining several different patterns in the same room, a good rule of thumb is to keep most in the same color palette, varying the texture and scale of patterns. + When choosing flowers and foliage, opt for something out of the ordinary. Lush palm fronds and flowers with a tropical aura create the look of faraway places in a room. Stroheim & Romann fabrics and wallpapers are available through interior designers and design showrooms. For information, call (718) 706-7000, or visit www.stroheim.com.