Book a ticket for some Orient excess

WHILE the year may already seem to be rushing by, it is time to pause and celebrate Chinese New Year on February 3, as we enter the year of the Rabbit. According to some, this is a year when good taste and refinement shine on everything and people will acknowledge that persuasion is better than force.
By The Newsroom
Published 26th Jan 2011, 12:09 BST
Updated 26th Jan 2011, 12:11 BST

So we can remain ever optimistic! The East has influenced interiors from virtually the moment that trading routes opened, from the blue and white patterns that have become a staple of porcelain design to the Toile de Jouy wallpapers and fabrics beloved of Country House and French-themed interior design. I adore the opulent colours found in classic Chinese design, which has a strong link to nature and natural beauty.

Each colour has specific meaning and is thought to help influence the lives of those in the household. Of particular importance is red which features heavily at New Year and also other key celebrations.

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Red symbolises fortune, happiness and joy. Not a bad thing to introduce to any home. If you want to add some Oriental influence there are no shortage of options, but ensure that it is not a half-hearted effort.

The key to success is a bold, imperial colour palette (including red, emerald, gold and black). Lacquered cabinetry with strong, clean lines makes an immediate statement.

There are varying qualities around, but a bit of investment will result in more longevity and enjoyment of your piece. Simple, one-colour designs with good brassware are classic, but why not embrace the rich depictions of nature which are a key feature of good pieces. Two of my favourites are the Red Butterfly cabinet from Artefact Interiors (698, www.artefactinteriors.co.uk) or the Chinoiserie Red Lacquer Small Bedside Cabinet from Supatra (325, www.supatra.co.uk ).

Fabrics and soft furnishings are vital to create a warm, welcoming environment. Comfort and feel are key, so include soft finishes and silks. John Lewis stock a wonderful range of items in their Pip Studio Chinese Rose Range (from 20 www.johnlewis.com). Choose a warm wallpaper such as Toile de Jouy Palais Chinoise from Osborne & Little (52 per roll, www.osborneandlittle.com) which is available in key red or emerald and has a shimmering background that reflects light in the room.

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Alternatively, consider the Willow wallpaper from B&Q in striking black, green or red (12.48 per roll, www.diy.com). Dress the room with painted panels which often feature stylised depictions on a strong single colour.

Or add some imperial style in the shape of a pair of hand-painted Ancestor portraits from Gong (275 www.gong.co.uk).

THE CHINESE COLOUR CODE

For centuries, the Chinese have attributed each colour with specific meanings

Red – Good fortune, happiness and joy.

Blue/Green – Vigour, vitality and spring.

Green – Health, harmony, tranquility and hope.

Blue – Immortality

Yellow/Gold – Considered the most beautiful colour associated with power and good luck.

White/Silver – Brightness, purity and fulfilment

Black – The king of colours and the symbol for winter.

Jamie Hempsall, BIID is an award-winning interior designer www.jamiehempsall.com or on 0800 032 1180.

Related topics:OrientRED