8 Rococo Interior Design Ideas (with Pictures)

Sometimes confused with Baroque style, Rococo was, in fact, a reaction to that aesthetic with some major differences. Characterized by whimsical pastels, startling asymmetry, and gilded accents, Rococo design was an attempt to break away from Baroque style while retaining many of its elements. Today, interest in historical aesthetics has caused a resurgence in Rococo-style homes. Let’s check out some of the major elements of Rococo design that you can use in your home today.

The Top 8 Rococo Interior Design Ideas for Your Home

1. Pastel Color Palette

Unlike Baroque design, which relies on bold, serious colors, Rococo uses a lighter pastel palette. Common colors are pearl gray, powder blue, lilac, and cream. By avoiding dark colors, Rococo achieves a similar effect to Baroque style but minus the intimidation factor. Pastels work with naturalistic motifs, gilded accents, and asymmetrical touches to establish a relaxed yet elegant feel.

2. Curving Naturalistic Style

Eschewing traditional French design, Rococo emphasizes frilly, curving patterns. Serpentine vines, ivy, and other naturalistic motifs are prominently displayed in Rococo design in an effort to lighten the space. Serpentine curves, undulations, and other patterns are common in wallpaper, furniture carving, art, and other decorations. Because Rococo was designed for nobles and not the king, nobles desired a lighter but still ostentatious aesthetic that showed off their wealth.

3. Asymmetry

Asymmetrical flourishes are at the very heart of Rococo style. From trimming, moldings, and furniture design, you’ll often see curving, asymmetrical patterns that catch the eye. Seashells are extremely popular because Rococo is derived from the French word, “rocaille,” meaning seashell.

4. Gilded Elegance

One thing that Rococo style has in common with Baroque is that it’s very flamboyant with its use of gold gilded accents as a way to convey opulent splendor. Mirrors with gilt edges are common, as are gold accents on furniture, walls, columns, and other architectural features. Let’s just put it this way: if it has an edge or border, the French put gold on it.

5. Trompe L’oeil

Meaning “deceive the eye” in French, trompe l’oeil is an artistic device used by Rococo design to make two-dimensional art seem three-dimensional. Props like mirrors could be used, the art itself could suggest breaking through two dimensions, or the art could be created in a way that suggests motion in otherwise static images. Regardless, the idea is to elevate the space by breaking conventional conceptions about art.

6. Elaborate Ornamentation

Just like Baroque style, Rococo embraces complex and intricately detailed artwork, furniture, and decoration. While Baroque is all about showing off the power of the throne and the church, Rococo style incorporates exotic “Oriental” and African decorations. Patterned carpets, mythological depictions, and antique decorations are all very common in Rococo style.

7. Refined and Luxurious Fabric

For a style as opulent as Rococo, you can’t use plain fabrics. Chairs need elaborately detailed and comfortable upholstery, and bedding should be the finest and as plush as possible. Silk, satin, damask, and other rich fabrics are beloved by the Rococo aesthetic. Of course, they should be accented and surrounded by as much lavish decoration as possible. Hand-carved bed frames, crystal chandeliers, and forged metal were all popular additions.

8. Salon Style

Baroque style focuses on establishing a grand atmosphere of wealth, while Rococo takes the wealth and focuses on comfort. French nobles needed comfortable salons that showed off their wealth and taste while emphasizing a different style than the king. Soft sofas and armchairs arranged around a crackling fireplace, tastefully decorated tables, and extravagant artwork were all a must for a Rococo salon.

Conclusion

Rococo style is a playful twist on Baroque style, borrowing its affluent style while adding unique twists. Curving, sinuous lines, asymmetry, and pastel colors were the most well-known attributes of the style, and you can use them to create your own take on the short-lived style.

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Featured Image Credit: 455992, Pixabay