How to Create a Cool Asian-Inspired Interior

I’m crazy for Chinoiserie: Europe’s fanciful take on traditional Chinese design (all the rage in the mid-18th century). The best spot in town to admire classic Chinoiserie is the Smith Tower’s 35th floor Chinese Room (506 Second Ave., Seattle; 206.622.3131; chineseroom.com). This remarkable room, originally furnished in 1914 by the last Empress of China as a gift to building owner Lyman C. Smith, now operating as a wedding and event venue, boasts an entrancing ornate carved wood ceiling, blackwood furniture and 17th-century wall panels.

To create a Chinoiserie effect at home, look for elaborate yet airy Asian pieces: for instance, McGuire’s designer rattan offerings at Masins (Seattle, Bellevue; 206.622.5606; masins.com). Jane Piper Reid (trade only; 835 S Fidalgo St., Seattle; 206.621.9290; jprco.com) is a treasure trove of Asian and European finds. Choice Chinese chests and authentic accessories abound at Distant Lands (109 First Ave. S, Seattle; 206.340.2868; distantlandsimporters.com). The lyrical paintings of Bainbridge artist Kathe Fraga (kathefraga.com) capture the timeless elegance of Chinoiserie wallpapers. John Yaconetti Antiques (322 Occidental Ave. S, Seattle; 206.284.4967) stocks amazing French and English Chinoiserie antiques. Finally, don’t miss Robert Kuo’s new fabric collection for S. Harris (available at George Associates, 5811 Sixth Ave. S, Seattle; 206.724.0006; georgeassociatesinc.com) based on traditional Chinese metalwork and lacquerware designs.

With just a touch of Asian-inspired exotica, any home can be Chinoiserie chic.

John Stevens (john@stevenswilliams.com) specializes in classic interior design.

Products pictured: Kathe Fraga's painting Love Song. McGuire rattan side-chair, celadon lamp, candleholders from Masins. English Chinoiserie miniature cabinet (18th century) from John Yaconetti Antiques. Red grain barrel and make-up case from Distant Lands. Ceramic pagoda, antique tea canister, ancestral print pillow from Jane Piper Reid. Robert Kuo fabric. Temple doors (16th century) and carved blackwood furniture (circa 1900) from the Chinese Room's collection.