Here's Why I Think Chinoiserie is Timeless

Sunday, February 15, 2015

No doubt you've noticed the resurgence in popularity for all things Chinoiserie over the past few years, probably (sadly) to the point of oversaturation.  I remain undeterred.  I've loved Chinoiserie design elements for decades (seriously) and even though I'm disheartened to see it become so mainstream, I'm not ready to jump ship yet .

Here's why I think Chinoiserie has staying power.

1.  Chinoiserie prints are nature inspired.


Mother Nature has always been and always will be the greatest source of design inspiration.  Period. So it stands to reason that if we continue to look to nature for design inspiration, then Chinoiserie prints and wallpapers will always be relevant.


2.  Chinoiserie is whimsical.  


Can you look at this without smiling?

3.  Chinoiserie works with lots of design styles. 

Here it is combined with modern design elements.



And here Chinoiserie is used in a traditional setting


Chinoiserie and Louis


4.  Chinoiserie is bold.

There is such strength in the form of this Chinoiserie cabinet, yet it still feels refined.


And the strong impact of a trellis design is undeniable.

5.  Chinoiserie is timeless. We have been charmed by Chinoiserie for centuries and will continue to be for centuries to come.

Bedroom by Oscar de la Renta circa 1983.

Would you change anything in this living room by Billy Baldwin?

I rest my case.

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10 comments:

Vel Criste said...

And I second the motion! I usually don't care much if something I really like has become so mainstream, I like what I like and so do you, so what the heck, let's keep on lovin' chinoiserie like it's OUR OWN THING! ;-)

Thehouseofhampton said...

You said it so well and with beautiful examples to boot! I just started following you on instargam, and I'm hooked....
Sharon
The House of Hampton

Mary Ann Pickett said...

Such a pretty post!

Anonymous said...

Absolutely beautiful.

Carrie said...

Gorgeous!! And great points! I like that it is easier to find because of its new-found popularity.

Unknown said...

Beautifully said and illustrated Kim! I totally agree. Xo Nancy

Taylor Greenwalt said...

Love it...such pretty examples..

Karena said...

Adore Chinoiserie and always will! It IS timeless and has a place in almost any decor. Love the dog bed!

xoxo
Karena
The Arts by Karena
Featuring:Turquerie

Elizabeth @ The Little Black Door said...

A client and I were just talking about this very thing. Very well said my friend. Here here!!

The Pink Pagoda said...

I'm so with you. Last summer when I saw Chinoiserie canvas tote bags in the point of purchase display at Joann, I was a little deflated. However, my love stays strong : ). I've been a fan since I was old enough to notice design elements in my house growing up. It's always been in style, but we've definitely seen it trending for the last couple of years. When it falls out of favor with the masses, I'll still feel the same.