Global Icons: Chinese Garden Stools
See How to Use These Great Ceramic Side Tables Inside and Out
Becky Harris
February 8, 2011
Houzz Contributor. Hi there! I live in a 1940s cottage in Atlanta that I'll describe as "collected."
I got into design via Landscape Architecture, which I studied at the University of Virginia.
Houzz Contributor. Hi there! I live in a 1940s cottage in Atlanta that I'll describe... More
Perhaps you've noticed these intricate, drum-shaped, often perforated stools in home decor shots and wondered what their story was. Well, they are ceramic Chinese garden stools, and they originated during the Ming Dynasty more than 1,000 years ago (it makes sense — think of all the vases that came out of that era). First they moved from the Far East to points west, and then they moved from the garden into the house. The influx into western living rooms has exploded in the last 10 years and shows no signs of waning. Once quite an expensive antique purchase, new, more affordable versions are available at a slew of home decor shops today.
Many of these stools are still fit for outdoor use. Here they add character and texture to this terrace.
Tip: Do not be afraid to add amenities you have indoors to your outdoor space. With all of the fabrics, powdercoating and other technological advances for outdoor furnishings these days, there's no reason your outdoor space can't be as comfortable as your living room. We'll be digging deeper into this as spring approaches.
Tip: Do not be afraid to add amenities you have indoors to your outdoor space. With all of the fabrics, powdercoating and other technological advances for outdoor furnishings these days, there's no reason your outdoor space can't be as comfortable as your living room. We'll be digging deeper into this as spring approaches.
They also make great side tables in your living room, and can be used as extra seating in a pinch. This one has a more traditional Asian pattern on it, which can add a layer of global style to your home.
These garden stools come in a wide range of beautiful colors and styles. They make perfect side tables for your bathtub.
Here the shape was taken from this traditional stool, but the material changed and a gold finish was added to make it stand out.
A Chinese stool and a chinoiserie bamboo armchair are a great pairing.
This little copper version adds an element of bling to this bathroom. This is such a versatile piece that can be used in any room in the home.
When you don't want a clunkier end table between two chairs, a small ceramic stool can be just the ticket.
Tip: If space is tight in your living room, store two stools under a console table and pull them out to use as extra seating or cocktail tables when you have company.
Tip: If space is tight in your living room, store two stools under a console table and pull them out to use as extra seating or cocktail tables when you have company.
Here two very different ceramic stools add interest to this dreamy urban terrace.
This jade stool picks up on the palette provided by the throw pillows.
This library is in rich in texture from the Oriental rug, the grasscloth wallcovering, drapes, gold mirror, leather chair and desk, the glass and brass lantern. The intricate ceramic stool adds another great layer of texture.
This was the first garden stool I ever noticed on Houzz. Because of their petite stature, these stools can fit into tight spaces and provide low-profile side-table space.
This is an example of one of the most elegant designs this kind of stool comes in (it's a 120-150 year old antique imported from China). It's intricate, it's muted and it's luxurious.
A ceramic stool makes a good stand for a table lamp.
Side note: I love that horse artwork. If you're into equestrian art, you may enjoy this ideabook.
More:
A Touch of Chinoiserie
How to Add Touches of Chinoiserie
Browse more home design photos
Side note: I love that horse artwork. If you're into equestrian art, you may enjoy this ideabook.
More:
A Touch of Chinoiserie
How to Add Touches of Chinoiserie
Browse more home design photos
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It makes me want to paint mine!