There are some iconic pairings that stand the test of time. Like peanut butter and jelly (still a viable dinner option after a long day in the shop for this working mama), Holmes and Watson, and of course Blue and White chinoiserie in home décor. This iconic color combo is having a major moment in interior design, but we’re here to remind you that it simply never went out of style!
Blue and white chinoiserie regained popularity in recent years with the resurgence of the Ginger Jar. Originally created for the storage of spices in ancient China, the classic piece has evolved to become less utilitarian in its use and became widely synonymous with elegance in the mid 1960’s. Even 30 years ago, ginger jars weren’t widely accessible, existing mostly in posh homes and antique shops. Today, you’ll see them all over Nell Hill’s; peppered amongst our tablescapes, adorning mantles and bookcases, and serving as the anchor for many of our designs. We just can’t get enough of it!
Nell Hill’s has become synonymous with Blue and White, and I can assure you, this duo isn’t going anywhere. We love to use blue and white chinoiserie as a neutral. Its intricate nature and refined stature is a mainstay in New Traditional design, but the many possible pairings make it appropriate for so many styles and rooms.
There are so many ways to incorporate this stately duo into your home design. Try grouping three or five ginger jars; the asymmetry between the patterns and sizing makes for an interesting focal point for any room. Or, lean on the symmetry of two ginger jars flanking the edges of a dresser for a simpler look. Make a statement with citrus trees in large chinoiserie planters, or mix topiaries and other greenery with smaller pieces to introduce a fresh third color and take the look in a new direction! Want to just dip your toe in and see if this look works for your space? Pair a single piece with accessories you already own on your mantle or coffee table!
Did your ginger jar suffer an “oops” and lose a lid? Trust me, you aren’t alone. With a two-year-old at home, I understand how that can happen. Don’t be afraid to repurpose your piece and turn it into a vase! Some tall twiggy branches or fresh-cut white lilies would add height and life to any vignette.
Do you love this classic color combo? How have you worked pieces like these into your home? Tell me in the comments!
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Molly Cahill says
January 28, 2019 at 1:10 pmLove love all my blue and white… some pieces I paid more for than others, all are unique. It can brighten a dark shelf or make a so-so plant look better. I have been a Blue& White fan for decades… so glad to hear you validate it’s never lost that it’s ok!
How much are the Square blue & white planters that are pictured ? I have many round but love that look.
Also are they at risk of selling out? If so I want to do a phone order.
Katie Laughridge says
January 28, 2019 at 1:36 pmHi Molly, those vases are $18 each (I can’t believe it either!). We have six of these left in the shop, so I would recommend purchasing over the phone just to be safe! Cheers.
Janna says
January 28, 2019 at 1:55 pmI not only love my blue & white. I would say I am obsessed. I just did some redecorating at my house and my b&w was my inspiration. Your place looks amazing and I hope to get out your way one day soon. Thank you for your blog and your love of blue and white!
Katie Laughridge says
January 28, 2019 at 7:32 pmThanks so much for the kind words, Janna! I’d love to see some photos, because I think I qualify as obsessed too! lol. Hope you make it to the shop soon!!
Lauren Tucker says
January 28, 2019 at 2:32 pmYour helpful staff just yesterday assisted me in creating a beautiful blue and white scheme for my mantle. They pulled a ton of different products for me and helped me rearrange them to find just the right collection. And the prices were super reasonable! I love the result.
Katie Laughridge says
January 28, 2019 at 7:29 pmI’m so glad to hear that, Lauren! Please tag us in photos, we’d LOVE to see the finished results!
Connie says
January 28, 2019 at 2:37 pmI love the look of a dressed table, but what do you do with the decor when you want to use the table?
Katie Laughridge says
January 28, 2019 at 7:27 pmGreat question, Connie! You could stow a few pieces and keep the remainder as a centerpiece!
LindaH says
January 28, 2019 at 2:45 pmI need those ferns. Are they artificial? I would love to see an on line option for shopping everything Nell Hills. Maybe with new ownership we will see that happen?
Love your store.
Katie Laughridge says
January 28, 2019 at 7:25 pmThank you so much for the kind words. The ferns are artificial (less shedding that way!) Right now we’re strictly focused on our brick and mortar location, but never say never!
kris says
January 28, 2019 at 3:00 pmAnother person here who loves blue & white. (Bought a beautiful blue & white charger from an antiques dealer 40 some years ago and never looked back.)
And as far as lidless ginger jars go, may I suggest getting a wooden lid. Several years ago a charming antiques dealer in Franklin, Tenn., carried them. Also Amazon.
Katie Laughridge says
January 28, 2019 at 7:16 pmWhat a great suggestion!
Mary Stephenson says
January 28, 2019 at 5:28 pmLove blue and white. I have collected flow blue for almost 50 years, so mine is old. Probably have 250 pieces. We were featured in Victoria Magazine in July and Victorian Decorating 10 years ago. We lived in a Victorian house for 20 years. After moving into a 20 year old home last year, it’s been a challenge as to how to display it. I don’t have the wall space and built in racks, plus Butler’s pantry I had. Anxious to come over and meet you and get new ideas.
Katie Laughridge says
January 28, 2019 at 7:17 pmThat sounds amazing!I’d love to see a photo! And hope to see you in the shop soon.
Judy Sires says
January 28, 2019 at 5:39 pmBlue and white has been my go-to color combination for years. There is no soffit in my kitchen and the ceiling is very tall. My blue and white collection fills in the space beautifully. I use it everywhere!
Nancy says
January 29, 2019 at 1:38 amYears ago purchased some antique pieces of indigo and celadon-maybe a blue & white variant? Have used as a neutral. Harder to find now & priced out of reason when I do see it. Does true blue and white mix/work with these? I second the Comment on a website presence as a distant admirer of your shop and avid reader of the Blog. Best to you!
Katie Laughridge says
February 4, 2019 at 4:17 pmThat’s a great question, Nancy! I think a blue and white plate would look DASHING in this tablescape. Great eye!