This month we are looking at the latest trends in interiors and design for 2016. Next up is the intricate and classic colour-ways inspired by Delft pottery.
The Origins of Delftware
Delftware, or ‘Delft Blue’, is the world-famous earthenware that has been produced in the city of Delft since the 17th century. Between 1600 and 1800, this earthenware was popular among rich families who would show off their Delft Blue collections to one another and at the height of its popularity, there were 33 factories in the city of Delft alone, producing Delftware. Unfortunately, for many potters, Delft Blue went out of fashion, and one by one, they had to close their doors. The only one that has remained in operation since 1653 is de Koninklijke Porceleyne Fles, known as Royal Delft, a company that continues to produce the Delft Blue pottery according to the traditional methods (Holland.com 2016).
The colour-way associated with Delftware has remained a popular colour combination ever since its first inception, but for 2016, we are seeing the traditional Delft patterns inspiring new contemporary interiors, as well as being used by such designers as Marcel Wanders for Moooi. We could say that the Delft-inspired trend for 2016 is a transition from the folk art interior trend which we saw in 2011/2012, with the patterns this time around being more reflective of contemporary ideas.
Moooi Delft
The full ‘Delft’ collection by Marcel Wanders for Moooi.
The Moooi ‘Delft’ collection, designed by Marcel Wanders is one of the more unusual sets of products that we see Delft patterns being applied to. All vases and products in this collection were produced and decorated by Royal Delft; the vases are reinterpreting and revitalising the traditional ‘Dutch Blue’ using the traditional decorative techniques, but applying these to new shapes and surfaces.
Other designers such as Michaela Schleypen, Jacco Maris, Magnus Gjoen, Studio Ditte, and Rob Ryan, have embraced the ‘Delft Blue’ trend and it is easy to see why this colour combination is so popular; the classic tones of warm blues and vibrant whites create a strength in aesthetics and depth of detail for intricate patterning.
What’s Next?
From 1970s inspired interiors to Delft Blue making a come back, trends for 2016 are shaping up to be unique and contemporary takes on trends and styles from the past. Stay tuned to find out what is next in this series on interior design trends for 2016.
Image Resources
Apartment Therapy (2011) Four Seasons [Online Image]. Available from: http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/rob-ryans-four-seasons-papercu-160920 [Accessed: 23.02.16].
Front Rugs (2016) Floral Garden [Online Image]. Available from: [Accessed: 23.02.16].
Gestalten (2016) One Minute Delft Blue: Vase [Online Image]. Available from: http://shop.gestalten.com/one-minute-delft-blue-vase.html [Accessed: 23.02.16].
Hatch (2016) Delft Scarab [Online Image]. Available from: http://www.hatchlimitededitions.com/products/magnus-gjoen-deflt-scarab [Accessed: 23.02.16].
Jacco Maris (2016) Monotone [Online Image]. Available from: [Accessed: 24.02.16].
Moooi (2016) Delft Blue No.1 [Online Image]. Available from: http://www.moooi.com/products/delft-blue-no-01 [Accessed: 24.02.16].
Moooi (2016) Delft Blue No.4 [Online Image]. Available from: http://www.moooi.com/products/delft-blue-no-04 [Accessed: 24.02.16].
Panda’s House (2015) Blue & White Interior [Online Image]. Available from: http://www.pandashouse.com/color-and-paint/blue/ [Accessed: 24.02.16].
Simpaley (2016) Delft-inspired cup & saucer [Online Image]. Available from: http://slimpaley.com/art/feeling-very-delftish/ [Accessed: 23.02.16].
Studio Ditte (2016) Delft-inspired wallpaper [Online Image] Available from: [Accessed: 23.02.16].
Zazzle (2016) Antique Dutch Delft Cushion [Online Image] Available from: http://www.zazzle.co.uk/elegant_antique_dutch_delfts_blue_art_pattern_throw_cushions-189274883530678804 [Accessed: 23.02.16].
7 Responses
[…] I hope this has given you some ideas, as well as showing that the trend does not need to be used with the same intensity as that from which it has developed. Next in the 2016 interior design trends series we take a look at interiors and colour schemes inspired by Delft pottery. […]
One of my favourite delft Pottery Set. The Delft theme colour blue and White colour scheme. Originally recogination and inspiration from the 16th Century, Netherlands.
Thank You !!!
Jesna Jacob
Master of Interior Design
NDA
[…] to round up thus far, we’ve had a resurgence of the 1970s style, interiors and décor inspired by the iconic Delft Blue and this years Pantone trends; Rose Quartz and Serenity. Quite a variety of trends that are going […]
[…] set for 2016, where we have taken a look at contemporary takes on the 1970s style, use of the ornate Delft blue style patterns, a pantone colour palette of Rose Quartz and Serenity, and finally these beautiful Guatemalan […]
It’s a cool combination that works best in spaces,this is a great way to add artistry to industry which creates unique design. Great collection of Delfts Blue Pieces !
Gorgeous collection! When we were in Amsterdam last year, I was looking to bring home Delf. I brought home 6 antique pieces and they are beautiful. I decorated our guest room mantel with it, thereby getting to see them every day.
The blue and white colors in delftware are always inspiring and suitable as a room decorator. As a delftware lover I really like all that is related with delftware. And my delftware collections are diverse from vases, plates, pots, jars.