Chinoiserie is making a glamorous comeback—and it’s easy to see why. With its intricate patterns and delicate motifs, chinoiserie tells a rich visual story.
This centuries-old style is now captivating a new generation of design lovers who want sophistication with a touch of whimsy. But what exactly is chinoiserie, where did it come from, and how can you thoughtfully bring it into your own home
What is Chinoiserie?
Chinoiserie (pronounced sheen-wah-zuh-ree) is a European take on Chinese and East Asian art. It appears mostly in decorative arts, furniture, and interior design.
The style features pagodas, cherry blossoms, dragons, exotic birds, and stylized landscapes. These are often seen in gold leaf, lacquered wood, porcelain, and hand-painted wallpaper.
Chinoiserie isn’t authentically Asian in origin. It reflects how 17th- and 18th-century Europeans imagined the Far East—as a dreamy world of elegance, calm, and mystery.
A Brief History
Chinoiserie emerged in the late 1600s, driven by trade between Europe and Asia. Royals like Louis XV and Queen Mary admired Chinese porcelain, lacquer, and silk. Thus, sparking a trend in chinoiserie-style palaces, tea rooms, and gardens.
The Rococo era embraced chinoiserie, mixing it with ornate curves, soft pastels, and gold details from French decor.It reappeared again in the 1920s and 1960s, often paired with Hollywood Regency glamour.
Why It’s Trendy Again
In today’s maximalist-meets-modern moment, chinoiserie’s lavish detail and timeless appeal are being rediscovered by designers and tastemakers. It brings:
- Global flair to otherwise neutral spaces
- Layered texture and story, especially when used in wallpapers or ceramics
- A romantic contrast to contemporary minimalist furnishings
- A bridge between old and new—especially when mixed with modern lighting and clean-lined furniture
Designers like Miles Redd, Michelle Nussbaumer, and de Gournay have reimagined chinoiserie in bold colorways and contemporary compositions, making it feel fresh, luxurious, and undeniably now.
How to Decorate with Chinoiserie Today
You don’t need to live in a historic estate to pull off chinoiserie. Here’s how to incorporate it elegantly into modern interiors:
1. Statement Walls
Opt for hand-painted chinoiserie wallpaper or murals in dining rooms, powder rooms, or entryways. Pair with modern lighting or simple wood furniture to let the art sing.
2. Accent Furniture
A lacquered cabinet, chinoiserie-painted console, or bamboo-accented chair instantly elevates a room. Look for pieces with curved lines and gilded touches.
3. Porcelain and Ceramics
Blue-and-white ginger jars, dragon vases, or lotus-patterned plates are perfect as centerpieces or shelf styling. Group in odd numbers for impact.
4. Soft Touches
Introduce chinoiserie via throw pillows in silk or velvet with bird and floral embroidery. Mix with contemporary patterns for contrast.
5. Modern Mix
Chinoiserie thrives when contrasted with modern elements—think Lucite tables, brass accents, and abstract art. It’s about balance, not theme.
6. Garden Glamour
Bring chinoiserie outdoors with lattice planters, ceramic stools, and pagoda-shaped lanterns for an elevated patio look.
Final Thought: Curated, Not Costume
Chinoiserie works best when it feels curated, not costume. Choose pieces that speak to you and mix them with your existing style. Chinoiserie adds timeless elegance and charm, whether through a bold scenic wall or subtle porcelain accents.
Ready to add a little exotic elegance to your décor? Start small—a vase here, a fabric there—and watch how chinoiserie transforms your space into something truly extraordinary.
