EASY ELEGANCE

Who would have thought that a trend we can trace back to the 17th century could feel so fresh? Three-hundred years after the aristocracy started the fashion for bringing oriental pieces into their homes, chinoiserie wallpaper and antiques (such as intricately patterned ceramics and highly decorative furniture) are at the top of our wishlists at H&A. We put it down to the current trend for global looks and an eclectic mood for interiors, as well as the continuing popularity of Asian antiques and a thirst for authenticity.

The good news (we discovered whilst planning our chinoiserie shoot on page 42) is that just one piece of beautiful furniture, or a small collection of treasures, can give an exotic and timeless edge to a country or urban room. While a wall embellished with chinoiserie wallpaper can be just the thing to bring a fresh feel and relaxed sophistication to interiors for the new season.

As always, there’s a host of styles with their roots in history to inspire you in this issue, from shopping for classical antiquarian-inspired pieces (p33) to a dramatic art deco home (p62). Whatever your passion, Mark Hill’s guide to winning at auction or online could help you get the best from buying antiques this spring.