Monday 8th February saw the start of a week of celebrations to mark Chinese New Year. 2016 is the Year of the Monkey. People born in the Year of the Monkey are characterised as lively, quick-witted, curious, innovative and mischievous, but it is also believed to be one of the most unlucky years in the Chinese calendar.
Chinoiserie has always been a popular decorating style and one of the finest examples is the Royal Pavilion in Brighton. The Music room is just one of the rooms decorated in this style
When we think of Chinoiserie, we often think of a traditional blue and white willow pattern such as this hand painted ceramic barrel stool from OKA which works well both as a side table or as a stool when you need extra seating – just pop a cushion on it for comfort. However, there are a range of colours and styles to choose from. If using this theme in just one room, such as a bedroom or perhaps a study go full on with bold colours (how about dramatic black and red for example). In larger spaces such a s a lounge where you may want something more subtle, choose white and gold or a pale green.
I like the freshness of this ‘Chelsea’ design in standard design colours on Pea Green dyed silk and it is easy to pick out the colours of the flowers for accents or upholstery.
And I love the contemporary feel of this ‘Orchids’ wallpaper in standard colourway on Raw Silk dyed silk.
Both are from interiors specialists de Gournay.
These striking red bedside cabinets are from Shimu at Furnish & Co. They have a vibrant red lacquer finish, and would make a good focal point for your room.These can be used as bedside tables or as living room side tables and have drawers at the top portion along with a removable shelf on the inside. 
Combine with black for a really dramatic feel. If styling a bedroom the Qinghai painted trunk also from Shimu would act as a useful ottoman as the foot of the bed. 
Or alternatively how about this black bedside cabinet from Candle & Blue. Although it would fit within a traditional scheme, it would equally suit a slightly more contemporary feel. It would also look good as a storage cupboard in an office with a sleek glass desk/ table
Fabric is of course an essential element of any scheme and this classic blue and white Le Lac design, part of the Le Jardin Chinois collection from Brunschwig & Fils is perfect for either drapes or upholstery and also comes in a red/ blue or blue/ green colourway.
So why not give us a call and let us add some Chinese style to a room in your house. Call us on 07745 876182 e mail us at info@homestyle4u.com or complete the enquiry form below
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