Oriental Interior Design Never Fall Out of Fashion for Your Chic Home

If you're one of the 63% of Brits who consider themselves a homeowner, you likely are always looking for ways that you can improve your space and make it into a more comfortable place to live. Creating and implementing a new interior design goes a long way, but what options do you have?

Oriental interior designs are one of the best ways that you can make your house into a home. Read on to learn about the history of these styles in Britain, why they're a great choice, and how our professionals can put a fresh spin on these styles in your home!

Oriental Designs in UK Homes: a Brief History

To say that a design is 'Oriental' can mean a lot of things. Historically, this term was used to refer to both the functional and artistic features of household items that were imported from East Asia. Many Oriental items are Japanese of Thai, but the bulk of these designs in the UK originally stem from China.

However, because China is such a richly diverse culture, this can mean many things! Also, since Oriental design is one of the most popular decor styles in the world, there are a huge number of ways that it can be used.

There are some common denominators in all homes decorated this way:

The use of pastel colours such as sky-blue, mint-green, light pink, and mauve
Floral designs in many different colours
Organic, natural patterns
Materials made primarily from silk
Hand-embroidered fabrics and one-of-a-kind pieces
Light and airy fabric/wallpaper designs with heavy oak/wood furniture for contrast

The movement of these designs from China to the UK spanned centuries, but by now, these styles are embedded into mainstream classic British designs.

From China to Europe

Chinese styles made from porcelain and silk moved into Europe in the late 1600s. In 1670, Louis XIV of France already had his rooms decorated in these styles, which set the precedent for other European palaces to use these interior decor trends. Sadly, though, this was only possible for royalty and nobility since trade restrictions with China were heavy during the time.

In 1684, however, these trade restrictions lifted. Imported silk, porcelain, wallpaper, and furniture were brought into Europe, which people loved. These styles were used in upper-class homes all throughout Europe, including the UK. Since these items were more accessible at this time, many people could afford to use them in their decor.

In the Georgian era, no UK home was complete without Oriental wallpaper and decor.

Georgian Home Interiors

The Georgian era spanned from 1714 to 1830. 'Chinoiserie' was one of the leading interior design trends at this time. It was basically the imitation of Chinese-style motifs in western art, design, and furniture in the 18th century.

Interior design was known specifically for being light and elegant. Oriental wallpaper and furniture was a big trend because it featured light, colourful pastels and beautiful floral designs. These designs evoked a feeling of serenity and peace while being at one with the natural world.

Post-Georgian Delights

By the Victorian era, Oriental designs had embedded themselves into mainstream English designs. UK homes throughout the Georgian and Regency eras used imported goods from China to create desirable home interiors. Elaborate architecture matched the light, airy, precise, and intricate vibes that these interiors gave off.

For those in the lower classes, imitation goods were made in Oriental styles. Silk fans produced in the UK, as well as wallpapers, towels, dressing screens, and bedding. For those who could not afford authentic imports, this was a less expensive alternative. It was also a step towards proliferating Oriental designs and globalising them as part of English styles.

Present-Day Designs

Today, Oriental design or Chinoiserie is commonplace in UK homes. When you look at a flat or a house anywhere in Britain, you're likely to see floral wallpaper and embroidered furniture in Oriental styles.

Why Are These Styles a Good Choice?

So, why are Oriental styles such a good choice for interior wall design?

For one thing, it's a great way to pay homage to an important part of England's past. Because these styles were such a big deal for centuries, you're expressing patriotism and love for your country when you follow these traditions. However, you can also put fresh spins on these styles to express your individuality and love for the modern era.

Additionally, the colours and floral designs of Oriental decor or Chinoiserie are calming. Studies show that pastels are light and soft, which reduces heart rate and promotes anti-anxiety. When you choose Oriental-inspired decor, you'll get these benefits and combat stress.

Our Living Room Interior Paint Designs

While Oriental designs are gorgeous in and of themselves, the Peony Girl's designs follow that legacy but reinvent as modern chic. This puts a fresh 21st-century twist on a classic style that makes you feel as though you're living a modern lifestyle while paying homage to the classics.

It also puts more traditionally English twists on these styles so that you can feel at home while using them. Essentially, our room interior paint design English romance with Oriental elegance. All of these designs originated from the original art of the founder, Siyuan. This art style is fused with Oriental and western techniques so you're sure to love your new home.

Additionally, we offer a wide variety of customisation options so that you can create the perfect space for yourself. Our experts then will paint your wallpaper design in your space and provide you with floor rugs and runners, tea towels, and cushion covers. This ensures a cohesive decor scheme that you're sure to love.

Get Started

Now that you know where Oriental interior designs come from and why they're a great choice, it's time to get started. Contact us with any lingering questions that you may have about Oriental design. You also may be interested in browsing the rest of our website to view some interior wall paint design pictures and ideas so that you can create the perfect custom room with our experts.

We look forward to hearing from you soon!