The Timeless Beauty and Sophistication of Chinoiserie

By Marianne Wallace

1. My Introduction to Chinoiserie

My love - and slight obsession - for chinoiserie started when I was an interior design student in London. From studying design history to visits to amazing museums (the V&A is a favourite!) and palaces galore, I developed an acute interest and appreciation for the timeless elegance and whimsical charm of Chinese inspired aesthetics.

I'm not going to bore you, my dear reader, with historical details; but very briefly, the European fascination with furnishings and decor with an oriental flair dates back to the XVII and XVIII centuries, after Europe established trade routes with Asia. All of a sudden, Europeans became entranced with the unique and remarkable beauty of Asian aesthetics, which included architectural elements and artefacts, such as pagodas, wallpaper, textiles, porcelain, lacquered furniture, etc.

2. The Timeless Appeal of Blue and White

There are many ways you can incorporate chinoiserie into your home interior. One of the easiest and most popular ways is with blue and white ceramics: ginger jars, bowls, plates, pillow boxes, planters, garden stools, etc., the choices are endless. Blue and white is one of the most elegant colour combinations out there, and mixed with asian motifs, it adds a sophisticated and timeless look to your home.

Blue and white is also considered a neutral colour scheme. So it's a great starting point if you want to add a bit of colour and warmth to your interior decor; it adds elegance without being colourfully overwhelming. It's the perfect colour combination to add a slight touch of colour to an otherwise all beige and monochromatic look for example.

3. Diverse Elements of Chinoiserie Design

But Chinoiserie is not only about blue and white decor; intricate, lacquered, and bamboo - or faux-bamboo - furniture are also staples in Chinoiserie design. Whether you prefer furniture with more elaborate and grand details such as those inspired by the Qing dynasty, or the more subtle sophistication of the Ming dynasty, asian inspired furniture are a great way to add grace and refinement to your interior.

Besides furniture and porcelain, another interesting way to incorporate chinoiserie into your interior decor is with asian inspired motifs, such as exotic landscapes and sceneries, birds and floral designs, pagodas, mythical dragons, etc. Such motifs can be incorporated into your home in many different ways: upholstery, wallpaper, drapery, screens, accessories, wall plates, etc.

When adorned with chinoiserie elements, your home interior will feel more refined and sophisticated. The unique blend of delicate design, whimsical details and nature inspired motifs creates a design aesthetic that is timeless in its beauty, transcending different design expressions throughout the centuries.

*All photographs credit: Marianne Wallace

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