The term “Ginger Jar” may not ring a bell, but you’ve likely seen these blue and white beauties before. Ginger jars, (sometimes called temple jars or chinoiserie jars) are a staple of elegant decorating, and the trend is only heating up.
Ginger jars were originally used in ancient China as storage for spices, but their beauty picked up admirers in the western world. The “Chinoiserie” style gained steam in 17th Century Europe, when hand painted scenes of the far east made these ceramics all the rage. They quickly became a home decor must-have and over the years, their charm is still undeniable.
Real antique porcelain ginger jars are harder to come by these days, but you can find beautiful replicas that evoke the same classic beauty. Just look out for these trademark characteristics: a wide mouth, with a bulging, spherical body, topped with their trademark domed lid.
Nowadays this classic blue and white decor comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, and vibrant colors. It’s also become stylish to surround them with white ginger jars, and similar pottery. Look for the signature ginger jar motifs on other decor like lamps, vases, and even garden stools, to complete your chic space.
Ready to get this timeless style in your own home? Here are 7 elegant ways to style ginger jars in any room of your home, and stylish options that work with any decor. There’s no right or wrong way to use your ginger jars, so add them wherever you think needs a dash of flavor!
1. The Entryway
Your entryway is the perfect place welcome guests with a cheery pop of blue and white! Console tables make the perfect display piece for a ginger jar collection, and they look just as amazing placed below as they do on top.
2. The Kitchen
Since the original use for ginger jars was storing spices, it makes sense that they look fabulous in the kitchen. Though you don’t see them here as often as other rooms, they instantly brighten up a boring cooking space. Try placing a set on decorative trays, or letting them peek out from your glass cabinets.
3. The Living Room
Always the show stopper, ginger jars are right at home in the living room. Let them be the focal point of the space, on a console or coffee table. Of course if you have a mantle, they look perfect perched on top, too!
4. The Dining Room
Chinoiserie style is always popular for dining rooms, so they’re a great place to style with ginger jars. Try creating symmetrical arrangements with florals, or let them be the centerpiece of the table when you’re not entertaining.
5. The Bedroom
Blue and white decor makes a restful color scheme, and that’s why ginger jars work well in the bedroom. Try using them on a nightstand or dresser, or opt for a unique bedside lamp with a ginger jar inspired pattern.
6. The Bathroom
Who doesn’t want to come home to a spa like retreat? Ginger jars placed around your tub, instantly give off a vibe of refreshing relaxation. Try adding a garden seat in the classic blue and white style, and that way your towel won’t be far from reach.
7. The Outdoors
Nothing makes a home feel truly complete, like a well styled outdoor area. Ginger jars are a great way to make your patio area feel put together, and they work perfectly with colorful landscapes. They’re also sturdy enough to weather the elements, so they won’t require much upkeep over the years.
As you can see, decorating with ginger jars is a great way to make an elegant statement in any room. Get creative with these ideas, and have fun building up your collection.
Try pairing large and small jars of different shapes for a unique vignette, or let a large ginger jar take center stage. Do you have a ginger jar collection in your home? Of so, drop a comment below, and let me know how you display these beauties yourself!
If you’re looking for more chic home decor ideas, check out these 5 Simple Paris Apartment Decor Secrets To Steal For An Elegant Home.
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