×
Are you looking to switch up your decor? If so, the Rococo style can introduce an element of rich elegance to your home.
After the passing of King Louis XIV, there was a breakaway from more formal stylistic expression. From this, the Rococo style was born.
In this blog, we’ll take an in-depth look into the Rococo style, its features and how to introduce it into your home.
What is Rococo style furniture?
Rococo interior design style features walls and ceilings adorned with intricate stucco work, often incorporating swirling scrolls, floral motifs, and delicate carvings.
Architectural elements such as arches, balustrades, and columns also feature graceful and flowing lines characteristic of Rococo.
Similarly, furniture pieces, like chairs and tables, often display curved legs and serpentine shapes.
Materials used in Rococo style furniture
These rich textures add depth and tactile appeal, enhancing the sense of luxury the pieces create
Upholstered furniture is often adorned with luxurious fabrics. A few of the most common materials used in Rococo style furniture include silk, damask, brocade, toile and velvet.
These rich textures add depth and tactile appeal, enhancing the sense of luxury the pieces create.
As the fabrics were historically handcrafted and custom made, they were quite expensive.
At the time, wall coverings of woven fabric or paper were more common. These were hand painted or block printed.
As Rococo style furniture is handcrafted, you’ll find variation from piece to piece. This is part of the charm of the Rococo style.
Rococo interior design
×
Light plays a crucial role in Rococo interior design. Large windows, mirrors, and gilded surfaces are used to reflect and amplify natural and artificial light.
Chandeliers, often adorned with crystals or glass, are prominent fixtures and help elevate the spaces they’re placed in.
Before the Rococo style movement had fully emerged, there was the appearance of Louis XV style, named after King Louis XV of France. Some looked at this era as the height of Rococo design.
Compared to that of Louis XIV, Louis XV pieces are more delicate in appearance, symbolising the new era the French court had moved into.
Use of marquetry and inlays of exotic woods and metals further enhance the lavish appearance of the furniture.
The pieces are designed to showcase the perfect balance between functionality and artistic expression, demonstrating the refinement and taste of the French court during the 18th century.
Here at Westland London, we have a range of Rococo-style furniture and Louis XV pieces available.
It may also be worth noting, items featuring such intricacies can be difficult to maintain. You may appreciate our guide on how to clean antique wood.
Which characteristics are associated with the Rococo style?
Rococo style art and design aimed to capture an image of opulence, pleasure and luxury
×
The name ‘Rococo’ was coined as a version of the French word ‘rocaille’, which refers to the use of small pebbles and seashells as decoration; this had been fashionable since the Renaissance era.
The Rococo style can be identified by its flamboyant and elaborate aesthetic. Often compared to the Baroque style, Rococo has a softer and more private feel, while Baroque was more dramatic and powerful in aesthetic.
Rococo art and design often featured curvaceous lines, pastel colours, and decorative motifs such as shells, flowers, and cherubs.
Rococo style art and design aimed to capture an image of opulence, pleasure and luxury. You would often find examples of Rococo style interiors in the homes of aristocrats or the bourgeoisie.
The Rococo style was developed by craftspeople and designers rather than architects, which is why it is primarily found in furniture, silver and ceramics.
Modern Rococo interior design
The modern Rococo interior design approach embraces a more restrained and balanced aesthetic
The modern Rococo interior design approach embraces a more restrained and balanced aesthetic.
The hallmark of modern Rococo is its harmonious fusion of classic elements with sleek, clean lines and minimalistic sensibilities.
Lavish chandeliers and elaborate mirrors are juxtaposed with simple, neutral colour palettes and uncluttered spaces.
By blending historical grandeur with contemporary sophistication, modern Rococo interior design delivers a unique and captivating ambiance that effortlessly marries the past and present.
Why choose Rococo style?
Rococo style furniture and interior design bring a unique blend of opulence and playfulness to any interior, making it a captivating focal point.
Rococo interior design adds a touch of romance and fantasy, creating a sense of indulgence and luxury.
If you would like to infuse your living space with a touch of history and timeless charm, Rococo style furniture is an excellent option for you.
Summary of Rococo Interior Design: Giving Your Home A Rococo Style
Hopefully now, you’re more informed on how to give your home a Rococo style. We have explored Rococo style furniture and the materials commonly incorporated.
We’ve also explored (modern) Rococo interior design and looked into the characteristics of Rococo style.
In addition to offering a range of premier antiques, we also offer various style guides. For example, here’s a guide for how to decorate an unused fireplace.
Pick up the newest addition for your home, or get in touch with us today!