Chinoiserie Demystified

Chinoiserie. A word that some of us have heard of, that a few are familiar with and for others, it’s a total mystery. 

As I write my first blog of this year, I thought it would make sense to start at the beginning of my design story and explain what chinoiserie actually is (but definitely not in an overbearing lecturing kind of way!) 

 
That's me hand-painting Chinoiserie designs for Harlequin on silk wallpaper. This magical collection is ready to purchase here!

But Surely Chinoiserie is Chinese?
  

Surprisingly, it isn’t…
 

Most people don’t know that chinoiserie is actually a French word. Although it’s spoken about in relation to Chinese design, the Chinese never used chinoiserie in their own homes (they preferred plain walls). 
 

It was Europe’s elite that developed a fascination with the ‘mysterious’ East, and as a result chinoiserie wallpapers were made in China to meet Europeans tastes. Shipped across continents to great anticipation (and expense!), this interesting mix of cultures could often be found adorning the interiors of 18th century high society homes. 

     
Image credit Emile de Bruijn
 

You’re My Inspiration
 

During my third year at uni, I came across a book which included some of the most beautiful chinoiserie designs I’d ever seen. The more I looked, the more I fell in love. This is where my obsession began.
 

I knew I wanted to learn all I could about this incredible aesthetic, so I headed off to China and under the guide of some phenomenal master artists, I learnt my craft, absorbing knowledge and techniques like a sponge.
 

I've channelled all of that knowledge and skill into my Chinoiserie wallpapers for Harlequin. Here's some snippets below!

 
     
Harlequin x Diane Hill 'Florence' available in 3 colour ways. 
 

Past Meets Present
  

From full flowers to billowing branches and colourful birds, nature never goes out of style. I think this is what makes chinoiserie so timeless. Its panoramic murals have wrapped walls for more than 200 years, with vivid hues and stylised motifs that just make people smile. Chinoiserie is about creating a feeling, and for me that feeling is pure joy.
 

Image credit Emile de Bruijn
 

Dreams Can Come True! 
 

I have some amazing news to share… Over the past year I’ve been working on an exclusive wallpaper and fabric collaboration with Harlequin, one of the UK’s leading interior design brands. Now the collection is finally live and ready for you!

Shop the full collection here

Sign up here to win a custom original!

Diane Hill X Harlequin wallpaper samples 'Valentina' and 'Rosa'