Given the heaviness I’m feeling with the current Stage 4 Lockdown here in Melbourne, I wanted to write about something that really makes me smile…..Chippendale Chairs. They are such a versatile style of stool or chair that look great in many interior settings due to their stylish, airy and elegant lines. In this post I explain what are Chippendale Chairs and Where To Use Them.
A little bit of history to start. Thomas Chippendale, an English cabinet and furniture maker published a book of furniture designs in 1754. The first of its kind, the designs became a guide for furniture makers worldwide. Included in the designs were the style of ‘Chinese Chippendale’ that we know today. Typically the chairs are made from wood with a lattice back to imitate bamboo. They are usually black or white but can be customised in any colour. The seat is either upholstered or has a loose cushion. Here are some ideas of where to use them.
Kitchen Barstools:
I love the interest the lattice detail brings to a kitchen space, particularly at an island bench. Some clients prefer a barstool with a back. Without a bulky frame a Chippendale barstool keeps the space light and airy.
Gallerie B Interiors, Photo by Armelle Habib.
The flexility of a customised seat means a family-friendly fabric can be used. In this case I have used a textured vinyl that is easily wipeable and resembles a grey woven fabric.
A grey frame adds colour to an all-white kitchen.
Dining Chairs:
Chippendale chairs are a comfortable dining chair option. With a supportive tall back they are lightweight and easily moveable. Again the upholstered seat can be customised to suit the decor. I love the warm timber finish of these ones that we selected for a recent project.
Gallerie B Interiors, Photo by Suzi Appel
In a Hamptons style dining room, the white chair frame provides a contrast and freshness against the darker timber table.
Gallerie B Interiors, Photo by Suzi Appel
Personality is added to this space by using a patterned seat fabric.
Occasional Chairs:
In this hallway, two black Chippendale Chairs frame the client’s existing console and add interest. A striped velvet fabric complements their Sid Dickens wall blocks and ties together the vignette.
Gallerie B Interiors, Photo by Suzi Appel
The unexpected punch of a green Chippendale Chair adds some fun to this living room.
Rather than a bulky office chair, I use a black Chippendale Chair in my home office.
Gallerie B Interiors, Photo by Armelle Habib
For all your Chippendale chair or barstool questions, including how to source them, feel free to drop me an email: [email protected]
Stay well everyone.
Belinda XO