Decorating Guides
Explore Amazingly Versatile Chinese Chippendale Style
Give a traditional room playfulness, warm up a modern space ... Chinese Chippendale patterns slip in and stand out in any setting
Chinese Chippendale style was introduced by Thomas Chippendale, a cabinetmaker in London in the mid-1700s. At this time Europeans were intrigued by stories of the Orient brought back by explorers. Chippendale's designs became popular because increasingly style-conscious consumers were eager for translations of these tales in furniture and other ornamentation.
The Chippendale style actually refers to the geometric patterns seen mostly in repeat. Today the patterns, also called fretwork, appear in fabrics and other architectural elements too. This fretwork has seen a resurgence in the past few years and doesn't appear to be slowing down in popularity. Contemporary translations can have bold color and look great in both traditional and modern settings. Take a look at these rooms that feature Chinese Chippendale style and be inspired to freshen up a space in your home.
The Chippendale style actually refers to the geometric patterns seen mostly in repeat. Today the patterns, also called fretwork, appear in fabrics and other architectural elements too. This fretwork has seen a resurgence in the past few years and doesn't appear to be slowing down in popularity. Contemporary translations can have bold color and look great in both traditional and modern settings. Take a look at these rooms that feature Chinese Chippendale style and be inspired to freshen up a space in your home.
A classic Chinese Chippendale chair can look fresh in white mixed with other bold colors. I like the fact there are no window treatments in this room, because the geometric patterns give all the interest the room needs. Notice the fretwork pattern on the lounge chairs, too.
A similar chair takes on a whole different look in black. I love the way black anchors a room. The color scheme here of black and white gives the room a transitional feel.
Chinese Chippendale patterns look great on cabinets. The fretwork on this kitchen cabinet creates a furniture look. The pattern is beautiful in itself but showcases special dishes and bowls.
I love to see Chinese Chippendale style in a garden room or sunroom. The patterns evoke a touch of whimsy and are perfectly placed in the sunniest of rooms.
The versatility of this style is showcased in this kitchen banquette area. With its mix of bold green color, leafy patterns and a Saarinen table, this kitchen reads as retro Miami.
Chinese Chippendale style often features faux bamboo in patterns, such as with these cornice boxes. For that reason this style can also work with British colonial style.
Gorgeous stairways that feature Chippendale patterns steal the show in any home. Painted white, they are unmistakably traditional.
Chinese Chippendale furniture, such as the mirror and stools in this traditional living room, can bring youth and whimsy to the overall look of a room.
Fretwork patterns pair beautifully with modern lines and bold colors. Powder rooms are great spaces for displaying the geometric Chippendale patterns, which are just as impactful and fun on walls.
Vintage Chinese Chippendale furniture can be found in antiques stores and through online sources like eBay and Etsy. When you're searching for vintage pieces online, try keywords like "faux bamboo," "fretwork," "chinoiserie" and "Brighton pavilion" in addition to "Chinese Chippendale."