A Modern Take on Chinoiserie

1. A chinoiserie design painted cabinet

Chinoiserie, a strange word some might say, others may conjure up a mix of patterns depicting birds and flowers and colours of emerald green, blue and emperor red, a somewhat confusing space of oriental origins. This may depict chinoserie of the 18th Century, however today's designers have a less busy approach to making it work for this century and today's homes.

Born in the 18th Century of European design, stemming from the ceramics and textiles of China, this eclectic style became a global phenomenon by the late 18th century. Drawing inspiration from this style, however using it in a more subtle way can look fabulous in today's homes.

I've been looking around at ideas that stem from chinoiserie, yet have a more youthful feel. It may be the simplicity of the cabinet above, painted in chinoiserie style needing little to show it off. Or the vibrant powder room below which features a striking wallpaper of zebras teamed with a metal bamboo mirror of Chinese influence. The look is definitely a modern take on chinoiserie and the designs reflect a modern take on Chinoiserie.

2. Katie Rosenfeld Design

3. via Chinoiserie Chic

4. Not so much chinoiserie in design, however the mix of patterns and colours are what chinoserie was originally about and I feel these soft colours and patterns work beautifully together - Image via

5. Defintely a modern take on chinoserie, pattern colour and ceramics - Image via

6. A subtle use of an 18th century style design wallpaper, where less colour and less pattern work beautifully - Image via

7. A panel reflects chinoiserie style, the Chinese ceramics are typical and the drawer handles look like bamboo - Image via

 

8. Image via

9. A modern mix of colour and pattern - Image via

10. A bamboo gold mirror adds a chinoiserie touch without needing colour or pattern - Design by Mallory Fitzsimmons

11. Blue and white with a little Chinese influence in these stunning, over sized ceramic ginger jars - Image via, Design by Barclay Butera

12.  Subtle blue and white chinoseie pattern - Image via

13. Symmetry features in chinoiserie - Image via, photograph by Christina Wedge

14. A Blue and white ginger jar used as a vase is a subtle touch of chinoiserie to this all white kitchen - Image via

15. Opt for a feature chinoiserie wall - Design David Hix, wallpaper Quadrille

I hope you have enjoyed these images, they are what I personally perceive as a modern take on chinoiserie, whether by the use of ceramics, textiles, furniture or decorative wallpaper. If you are drawn to this style, think, "less is best" to achieve a modern chinoiserie look.

Have a lovely weekend