Taking inspiration from the 18th Century trend for Chinese and Oriental wall coverings comes a bold new take on Chinoiserie. Whether it’s a subtle nod in the direction or a head on riot of pattern and colour, Chinoiserie subtly started sneaking back in 2021 but for 2022 there is no doubt it’s returned in a big way. A Western take on ancient oriental landscape, a mash-up of ideals if you like, depicting pavilions, butterflies, blossoms and birds in typically rich colour-ways, this is largely for the maximalist but can arguably be used alongside calming grounding colours and natural finishes for a more subtle approach. Max it up or water it down, loath it or love it, today it’s all about Chinoiserie!
De Gournay ‘Portobello’ on blue grey dyed silk. Interior design by Ulrich Tredup. Photography by Andreas von Einsiedel.
If you’re looking for inspiration then the first stop should always be by the queen of Chinoiserie, De Gournay. Custom handpainted fabrics and wallpapers on silks and specialist papers make this the ultimate in luxurious decor, the benchmark, the goal…then bump back down to earth and search, search, search for something a little easier on the wallet.
Borastapeter Paradise Birds
I recently used Borastapeter Paradise Birds wallcovering in a clients dressing room, teamed with an antique brass chandelier and button backed velvet chair for a luxuriously feminine scheme. Shimmering and subtle with its soft colour palette, the room feels calm and tranquil.
Designers Guild, Porcelain de Chine Collection
Recently launched, Designers Guild new Porcelain de Chine collection is an intricate pattern of trailing flowers and birds available in wall coverings, fabrics and accessories. Available in 8 colours, choose from the fresh Fuchsia (pictured above) or pack a punch with the dramatic Noir.
Missoni Home, Oriental Garden Wallcovering
When I received a sample of the Oriental Garden wallcovering by Missoni Home I was blown away by the richness of colours and the quality for what I would say is a reasonable price tag. The pattern is embossed on a textured vinyl giving the appearance of a woven finish with an almost fabric feel. As you can tell, its hard to describe and the images don’t really do it justice so you’ll just have to take my word for it. Available at Jane Clayton and other good wallpaper stockists.
Little Greene Massingberd Blossom
My personal favourite is Little Greene’s Massingberd Blossom in Verditer from their National Trust Papers Collection. Crisp and fresh it works beautifully in a contemporary setting injecting depth and character.
This is just a small sample of the beautiful designs that are available out there and whether you prefer a traditional botanical style or a more contemporary and abstract design you are sure to find something that fits your ideal. Are you converted or is it just all a bit too much? Either way there’s no doubt you’ll be seeing it everywhere.