In a world teeming with inspiration and endless possibilities, the irresistible allure of transforming our homes into personal sanctuaries beckons. We eagerly attempt to craft interiors that transcend the ordinary, aspiring to fashion enchanting havens where dreams linger in every corner, from the sanctuary of our bedrooms to the heart of our living spaces.

My introduction to the esteemed British purveyor of wallpapers, de Gournay, remains a cherished memory. Whether encountered through leisurely strolls in Chelsea, where their London showroom windows exuded opulent charm, or within the glossy pages of interior design magazines graced with vibrant wallpaper motifs in celebrity homes, the impression left was indelible. For those with an affinity for life’s luxuries, de Gournay’s wallpapers transcend mere wall coverings—they embody the essence of a stylish confidante, poised to elevate your aesthetic journey, one wallpaper at a time.

Mahal Garden

In opulent residences, where every detail speaks to the homeowner’s discerning taste, the pairing of exquisite wallpapers with fine art becomes a symphony of personal expression. Yet, for those navigating the captivating allure of both, settling for just one seems akin to sacrificing a piece of one’s soul.

Mughal Trees

While opting for ‘good value’ prints may achieve visual harmony, it risks diluting the essence of the space, akin to adorning with mass-produced trinkets found on a discount shelf. In my perspective, the delicate balance between a love for art and an appreciation for life’s aesthetic joys demands a discernment that transcends mere replicas.

My curated online exhibition for de Gournay, will act as a guide through the tricky territory of pairing wallpapers with contemporary artworks. With a steadfast commitment to selecting pieces that possess not only visual appeal but also traceable narratives and inherent value, this showcase aims to inspire homeowners to elevate their spaces with a fusion of timeless elegance and artistic depth.

Art Deco

Selecting artwork to complement wallpaper requires not just an eye for beauty, but also a keen understanding of the interplay between style, dimensions, and tones. Unlike the blank canvas of traditional galleries, wallpaper introduces its own set of criteria, dictating the ambiance and character of a space. Yet, when orchestrated correctly, it possesses the remarkable ability to elevate art to sublime heights.

Alfred Basbous Abstract, 1993 Bronze (black & blue patina) H 39 x 19 x 11 cm Limited Edition of 8 © Estate of the Alfred Basbous Foundation

Envision yourself wandering through the opulent corridors of European castles or the lavish halls of old-style members’ clubs, where the pairing of wallpaper with paintings is the epitome of elegance and refinement. Serene, neutral wallpapers gracefully enhance artworks, while patterns boasting dramatic or luxurious designs can infuse a space with sophistication and allure. It’s a delicate dance where every stroke of the brush harmonises with the intricate patterns adorning the walls, creating something truly beautiful and sophisticated.

“Symphony”

Enter de Gournay, with its myriad of hand-painted and embroidered wallpaper designs, each weaving its own narrative—be it grandiose, intricate, or exotically charming. These wallpapers stand as captivating backdrops, transporting us through a kaleidoscope of worlds without needing to vie for attention with paintings. However, when paired with a contemporary sculpture, they not only enrich the home’s landscape but also allow the sculpture to truly stand out amidst such splendour.

Cary Kwok

My particular fondness for the ‘Mughal Trees’ design by de Gournay likely stems from my longstanding adoration of Indian culture. The allure of the splendid historical craftsmanship of the Mughal Empire, conveyed through the hand-embroidered tapestries, captivate me and create a sense of wonder and appreciation for the artistic traditions that have endured through centuries.

“Earlham”

To complement the rich textures and intricate detailing of this wall covering, crafted from materials like raffia, beads, and appliqué embroidery, I’ve chosen a sculpture by the Lebanese modernist pioneer, Alfred Basbous (1924-2006). Trained in Paris during the 1960s, Basbous drew inspiration from luminaries such as Henry Moore, Hans Arp, Brancusi, and Barbara Hepworth, while infusing his work with a distinctive interpretation. His sculptures, exploring the contours of the human form and the organic essence of nature, have found a place of honour in prestigious collections worldwide, including the Guggenheim Museum.

Richard Stone From Gardens Where We Felt Secure , 2023 Keramiplast, bronze, paint, wax, plywood support 尺寸可定制 Courtesy of the artist and Kristin Hjellegjerde Gallery

Another wallpaper that harmonises beautifully with Basbous’ sculptural finesse is the ‘Klimt’ design, adorned with swirling motifs reminiscent of the golden masterpieces of Gustav Klimt. Originating in the vibrant era of the 1920s and 1930s, the Art Nouveau movement coincided with the dawn of modernism. Thus, it seems only fitting to pair the aesthetic of modernist sculpture with the undulating patterns of Nouveau-inspired wallpapers.

“St Laurent”

Delving into the Art Deco style, de Gournay unveils an entire collection inspired by the iconic 20th-century decorative arts movement. From the sumptuous stage designs of Russian theatres to the stylized masterpieces by the likes of Armand-Albert Rateau and Jean Dunand from the interwar period, this series epitomises the opulence of a bygone era with its meticulous details and extravagant motifs. The raised, three-dimensional lines, embellished with shimmering gilded surfaces, evoke the essence of wood carving and bas-reliefs, while the subtle incorporation of metallic accents serves to enhance the visual mastery of this beautiful collection.

Xu Yang Untitled, 2020 Oil on linen 27.5 x 23.5 cm Courtesy of the artis

Of the collection, the ‘Symphony’ design stands out as a perfect complement to more modern artworks, drawing inspiration from the geometric forms prevalent in mid-century sculpture and painting. With hues dancing across transparent gauze and dyed paper surfaces, embellished with touches of gold leaf, this design transcends mere wallpaper, becoming a canvas in its own right. Whether in harmony with abstract paintings or serving as a subtle backdrop for figurative or landscape pieces, the ‘Symphony’ design only enriches the narrative of the artwork. To complement its contemporary style, I turn to the portrait drawings of Hong Kong-born artist Cary Kwok. With wit and insight, Kwok’s works delve into societal issues, offering a glimpse into his personal journey from the bustling streets of London.

Cary Kwok Qipao 旗袍 – Shanghai 上海 (1930s) 2012 Ballpoint pen, acrylic, gold leaf, polyester glitter, PVA adhesive on paper 48.5 x 36.2 cm framed 42 x 29.7 cm unframed Courtesy of the artist and Herald St, London

In de Gournay’s London showroom’s salon space, the timeless ‘Earlham’ design intertwines French and Chinese aesthetics, adorning gilded paper with floral and avian motifs. Here in the heart of England, amidst the vibrant pulse of London life, one cannot help but notice the pervasive allure of the ‘French-Chinese’ aesthetic gracing the walls of many homes. These abodes boast a particular fondness for furnishing their interiors with delicate paper artworks depicting florals, fauna, or picturesque scenes. These designs are prevalent throughout the sprawling city, from the quaint corners of Pimlico to the refined ambience of Kensington High Street’s antique emporiums. Yet, in ‘Earlham’ the aspiration transcends the mere replication of the traditional parlours of British grandmothers or the mimicry of the lavatories found in London’s venerable eateries. Instead, de Gournay sought to infuse a dash of modernity and thus a non-pictorial contemporary artwork would elevate the style of the French-Chinese aesthetic to new heights. To complement this ornate wallpaper, the wall sculptures of British Artist, Richard stone find their perfect canvas.

Cary Kwok Qipao 旗袍 – Hong Kong 香港 (1950s) 2012 Ballpoint pen, acrylic, white gold, gold, copper leaf on paper 48.5 x 36.2 cm framed 42 x 29.7 cm unframed Courtesy of the artist and Herald St, London

Trained in the classical arts amidst the cultural riches of Italy, Stone’s creations capture fleeting moments, suspended between motion and tranquillity and straddling the boundary separating the figurative from the abstract. In his wall sculpture, two small avian figures dance in harmony, echoing the floral and avian motifs that flourish throughout the French-Chinese wallpaper.

“Plum Blossom”

Another among de Gournay’s esteemed repertoire is the illustrious ‘St Laurent’ design, a masterpiece adorned with lush floral motifs and majestic avian scenes. Drawing inspiration from an antique wallpaper that once adorned the walls of Yves Saint Laurent’s elegant Parisian atelier, this opulent creation features hand-painted peacocks poised upon a luxurious double silk canvas.

Rousseau

While the traditional compositions of classical masters have long graced the halls of sprawling European estates alongside Chinese-inspired wallpapers, our contemporary abodes beckon for a departure from such conventional pairings. In this modern era, the art of interior curation demands a delicate balance between reverence for classical aesthetics and a commitment to contemporary sensibilities. Thus, artworks that pay homage to the timeless elegance of classical motifs while infusing a breath of modernity are the perfect accompaniment to the resplendent ‘St Laurent’ wallpaper.

Marin Majic Crossing, 2022 Colored pencil, oil color, and marble dust on linen 30.5 x 22.9 cm Courtesy of the artist and Nino Mier Gallery

In a recent feature within the Financial Times’ weekend supplement, ‘How to Spend It,’ an intriguing exploration unfolded into what has been coined as the ‘Neo-Classical Masters’ movement. Among the artists highlighted was Xu Yang, a rising star hailing from China and currently making waves in London. Her artistic vision presents an exquisite harmony with the ‘St Laurent’ wallpaper design, characterised by a fusion of Eastern and Western influences.

Marin Majić Off Course , 2021 Colored pencil, oil color, and marble dust on linen 33 x 40.6 cm Courtesy of the artist and Nino Mier Gallery

Drawing inspiration from Western art history and the theatrics of opera and theatre, Xu Yang’s works delve into themes of power and identity. Within the delicate confines of her small-scale canvases, hues reminiscent of Rococo masterpieces intertwine, evoking a mesmerising interplay of space and time. Through her artistry, Xu Yang skillfully channels echoes of the classical Western masters, resulting in a captivating fusion that captivates the senses.

Marin Majić Your Pace, 2022 Colored pencil, oil color, and marble dust on linen 8 x 10 in 20.3 x 25.4 cm Courtesy of the artist and Nino Mier Gallery

For those seeking an alternative pairing for the resplendent ‘St Laurent’ wallpaper, the realm of Eastern-infused artworks offers an array of possibilities. One such artist is Cary Kwok, whose intricate paper creations transport viewers to the bustling streets of 1930s Shanghai and the glamour of 1950s Hong Kong. With a deft touch that entwines an international perspective with Eastern-themed imagery, Kwok’s creations imbue the French-Chinese-inspired wallpaper with a chic allure, infusing the space with timeless elegance and cultural resonance.

Damask

The origins of the ‘Plum Blossom’ wallpaper design evoke a myriad of Japanese artistry, drawing inspiration from a late Edo period kimono crafted from delicate white silk. Infused with the style of renowned artist Sakai Hoitsu, whose mastery graced scrolls and screens, the design blossoms forth with intricate depictions of plum trees, mirroring the graceful movements of its wearers. Within this series, the expanse is transformed into a canvas of ethereal blooms, accentuating a sense of openness and airiness. It’s the perfect backdrop for complementing understated elegance or showcasing smaller paper artworks, adding a touch of refined charm to any space.

Pablo Bronstein Chromolithograph 2023 Ink and acrylic on paper, artist’s frame 109.3 x 86.9 x 4 cm Courtesy of the artist and Herald St, London

In selecting art to complement this wallpaper, my gaze falls upon the esteemed Korean artist Jung Kangja. A savant in performance and experimental art during Korea’s dynamic 1960s and 1970s scene, Kangja’s legacy was celebrated in a landmark exhibition at New York’s Guggenheim Museum, aptly titled ‘Only the Young: Experimental Art in Korea in the 1960s and 1970s.’ Among her showcased works, one finds a captivating exploration of real-life subjects and landscapes, transcending conventional boundaries to delve into the essence of humanity through abstract and unconventional forms. Her creations beckon viewers to inhabit an unbounded realm, where the self finds liberation amidst the interplay of form and expression.

The intricate ‘Rousseau’ wallpaper design transports viewers to a lush tropical rainforest teeming with vibrant flora, fauna, and exotic creatures like flamingos and tigers. Its vivid colors create a dynamic and lively atmosphere, making it the focal point of any room. As the wallpaper weaves its narrative through the imagery of animals, figures, and landscapes, it offers a storytelling experience that engages all who enter. To complement this striking wallpaper, I recommend pairing it with narrative or landscape artworks imbued with a touch of surrealism, such as those crafted by Croatian artist Marin Majic, whose works evoke a sense of dreamlike wonder. Born in Frankfurt, Majic’s small-scale oil paintings boast richly textured surfaces and intricate layers, skillfully playing with light and spatial depth to create mesmerising compositions. To complement this striking wallpaper, I recommend pairing it with narrative or landscape artworks imbued with a touch of surrealism, such as those crafted by Croatian artist Marin Majic. Born in Frankfurt, Majic’s small-scale oil paintings boast richly textured surfaces and intricate layers, skillfully playing with light and spatial depth to create mesmerising compositions.

Known as true masters of exquisite wallpaper design, de Gournay reigns supreme, offering a selection of exceptional designs that demand equally thoughtful artwork pairings. When selecting artworks to complement these opulent wallpapers, it’s essential to consider both the content and dimensions of the paintings to ensure harmony and balance in the space. For collectors with diverse collections and varying styles, opting for simpler styles like the ‘Damask’ series can provide a versatile and timeless choice that effortlessly complements a range of wallpaper designs.

Pairing contemporary artworks with such ornate wallpapers is a refined skill. However, Argentinian artist Pablo Bronstein, whose architectural illustrations from the 1980s transport viewers to the grandeur of 18th-century French architecture, adorned with the intricate flourishes of Baroque styles is the perfect pairing for the timeless ‘Damask’ style.

When juxtaposing French-Chinese or European-style wallpapers, vintage gold frames serve as the elegant bridge between the contemporary artwork and the enduring charm of the wallpaper. Imagine the lustrous allure of gold complementing the opulent motifs of the wallpaper, that speaks to both tradition and modernity. For collectors with homes bedecked in vintage-style wallpapers, the notion of substituting modern frames for vintage gold ones introduces a touch of refinement and cohesion to the overall aesthetic.

In the opulent settings of Western hotels, restaurants, and exclusive clubs, pairing contemporary artworks with lavish wallpapers is a meticulous artform in itself. While achieving visual harmony amidst such ornate backdrops can be a delicate dance, the fusion of French-Chinese wallpapers with minimalist or geometric pieces offers a seamless integration of tradition and modernity.

Yet, it is within the eclectic realms of celebrity homes where design truly transcends boundaries. Here, fearless juxtapositions of pieces from different eras and styles boldly coalesce, serving as vibrant reflections of the owner’s unique personality. Beyond merely creating a space, this approach to design encapsulates the essence of crafting a beautiful life—a testament to the creativity and individuality that enrich our living spaces.

In the realm of luxury interiors, exquisite wallpaper is no longer just a backdrop — it’s an essential statement, a canvas of sophistication that elevates a space. For the discerning homeowner, artworks are more than mere decoration; they are a reflection of personal taste and individuality. In a harmonious blend of art and design, the celebrated British luxury hand-painted wallpaper brand, de Gournay, is making waves with a curated collection that pairs their stunning wallpapers with equally captivating contemporary artworks.

Featured on both Luning Wang’s and de Gournay’s official Chinese social media accounts, this digital curation invites art collectors and design aficionados alike to discover the synergy between masterfully crafted wallpaper and contemporary art. It aims to draw de Gournay‘s clientele — those with an eye for fine interiors — toward the world of modern art, while also introducing art collectors to the unmatched elegance of the brand’s bespoke creations.

For those who aspire to a life of refined beauty, choosing between striking wallpaper or exquisite art should never be an “either-or” decision. With de Gournay, the perfect balance is achieved — where walls become art and art enhances every wall.