By

5 ways to embrace Chinoiserie-style decor

According to the Chinese zodiac, 2022 is the Year of the Tiger, which makes it the perfect time to bring the concept of Chinoiserie back into our interiors.

Chinoiserie, from ‘chinois’ the French for Chinese, was a style inspired by art and design from China, Japan and other Asian countries in the 18th century. It was at its height in Britain from 1750 to 1765, and the fanciful look relied on expert craftsmen to accurately portray oriental motifs and ornaments.

Things are a little easier these days, especially in the Year of the Tiger when, unsurprisingly, tiger-inspired interior decor is having a bit of a moment on the high street. Good Homes checks out some of the best buys…

This article contains affiliate links, from which we may earn a small commission

1. Chinoiserie wallpaper

There’s nothing 18th century about this Chinoiserie-style wallpaper. The made-to-measure wall mural takes the feature wall to a whole new level, and is perfect for the Year of the Tiger. It’s available as both a paste-the-wall wallpaper and peel-and-stick wallpaper, making a great way to decorate rented accommodation, or to replace in 2023 if you decide to decorate according to the Chinese Zodiac every year! Order the Tropical Tiger Wallpaper Mural by Sir Edward, from £35 per m sq, from wallsauce.com.

Chinoiserie-style wallpaper mural

Tropical Tiger Wallpaper Mural, wallsauce.com

2. Tiger bedding

Bed down with big cats under this gorgeous Chinoiserie-esque tiger bedding. It’s reversible too, so if you fancy a break from the fearsome creatures you can enjoy a quirky pattern instead. Buy it from Dunelm for £18-£34.

Pink tiger bedding in style of Chinoserie

Photo: Dunelm

3. Jungle lampshade

This chic tiger table lampshade is a chic and subtle way to incorporate Chinoiserie into a contemporary decor scheme. The flash of gold adds a luxury element, while the monochrome plant motif makes it amenable to many decor schemes. Order your tiger lampshade, priced £65, from Mountain and Molehill.

Tiger lampshade chinoiserie

Photo: Mountain & Mole Hill

4. Crouching tiger cushion

Bring a touch of the wild into your cosy sofa with this fiercely stylish cushion! Make it a statement cushion among neutrals, or go wild and pair it with other jungle animals on your couch. Order your Prowling Tiger Cushion, priced £25, from Mint and May.

Chinoiserie tiger cushion on white background

Photo: Mint and May

5. Power print

For a fun pop of Year of the Tiger decor, update your gallery wall with a new print to remind you and your guests of your fierce inner feline. Order your Tiger Tiger print, priced £19, from Fy!

tiger print from Iamfy

Tiger Tiger print, from Fy!


Loving the Chinoiserie look?

Delve deeper by checking out the authentic Chinese wallpaper and Chinoiserie collection on the V&A website.


MORE LIKE THIS: