- Porcelain: porcelain objects like vases, figurines, and plates are a staple of Chinoiserie design. Look for pieces that feature traditional Chinese or Japanese designs such as dragons, birds, or cherry blossoms.
- Wallpaper: Chinoiserie wallpaper typically features intricate designs with birds, flowers, or landscapes. It adds a beautiful and unique touch to any room.
- Colors: Chinoiserie color palettes typically feature soothing earth tones, such as greens, blues, and browns. Metallic colors like gold and silver are also commonly used.
- Furniture: Asian-style furniture often features clean lines and minimalistic designs. Dark wood tones, like mahogany, ebony, or teak, are commonly used.
- Artwork: Hang framed prints or original artwork featuring traditional Chinese or Japanese paintings. These often involve lush landscapes or peaceful nature scenes.
The Origins of Asian Style Decor
Asian style decor is a unique combination of various design elements that originated in several Asian countries. The style is revered worldwide for its delicate balance between elegance, simplicity, and intricacy. It draws inspiration from the rich cultural heritage of Asian nations to create an atmosphere that is serene, calming, and reflective. The roots of this style can be traced back to ancient dynasties in countries like China, Japan, and Korea. Artists and artisans in these countries traditionally created art and decor that were not only decorative but also functional. Everything from buildings to furniture was designed to be a work of art that had a specific purpose and utility. This philosophy of design evolved over time to become Asian style decor as we know it today.The French Term for Chinese Influence in Decor
You may have heard the term chinois or chinoiserie used to describe Asian style decor. These words are French and have their roots in China. The French term for Chinese is chinois, and it has been used to refer to anything that has Chinese influence, including art, furniture, and architecture. This style reached its peak in popularity in the 18th century in Europe.The Definition of Chinoiserie
Chinoiserie is a decorative style that originated in Europe during the 18th century, characterized by the use of Chinese motifs and designs. This style was most prevalent in the decorative arts, such as ceramics, furniture, and wallpaper, and it often featured highly stylized images of pagodas, dragons, and mythical creatures. Chinoiserie became popular among European elites due to their fascination with Eastern cultures and their desire to showcase their wealth and taste. This style was seen as an exotic and luxury decor that was used to adorn the interiors of grand estates and palaces.Multicultural Influence in Chinoiserie Decor
While Chinoiserie originated from Chinese influence, the style evolved to include other Asian cultures as well. The term was later used to encompass any decorative motif that was inspired by the art and design of China, Japan, and Southeast Asia. Additionally, over time, the style began to incorporate Western design elements into its overall aesthetic. This multicultural influence has resulted in a unique blend of East and West, creating a design style that is both harmonious and eclectic.Elements of Chinese Design in Chinoiserie
Chinese design is characterized by its simplicity, elegance, and attention to detail. Some of the key elements of Chinese design that are commonly seen in Chinoiserie decor include:- Use of natural materials like wood, bamboo, and silk
- Symmetry and balance in layout and composition
- Bold and vibrant colors, such as red, gold, and black
- Decorative motifs inspired by nature, such as cherry blossoms, dragons, and peonies
- Use of calligraphy and other scripts as decorative elements
