de Gournay celebrates Joanna Plant’s artistic vision in Chelsea

The de Gournay Chelsea showroom has been transformed into an intimate portrait of one of Britain’s most discerning interior voices, offering guests an extraordinary glimpse into the world and sensibility of decorator Joanna Plant. Within this luminous space sits an installation of the house’s hand painted ‘Chandani’ design, a work born from the most personal of collaborations and now occupying a place of prominence in Plant’s newly published book.

Originally conceived for Plant’s own London drawing room, this exquisite pattern represents far more than a single commission; it embodies a shared philosophy between decorator and atelier, a meeting of aesthetics and craftsmanship that speaks to the very essence of luxury interiorism. The design draws its inspiration from the 16th century woodblock printed chintz traditions of India, a heritage that Plant holds particularly dear and that suffuses her approach to interior decoration with historical depth and cultural reverence.

A Tapestry of Colour and Heritage

Rendered upon a richly toned ‘Tobacco’ ground, ‘Chandani’ unfolds across the walls with the languorous grace of trailing florals, its sprawling composition evoking the continuous repeat of those historic textiles that first inspired its conception. The pattern speaks to a time when craftsmanship and artistry moved without haste, when every bloom and leaf held meaning and intention.

The showroom itself has been curated to mirror the unmistakable sensibility of Plant’s own living spaces. Objets from her personal collection are thoughtfully positioned throughout, whilst an abundance of cushions adorned with textiles from her extensive archive introduce a dialogue of texture and pattern. This is interiorism as autobiography: each choice reflects the decorator’s instinctive understanding of colour, proportion and the subtle art of layering rich hues into harmonious composition.

The Interplay of Jewel Tones

The jewel tone palette that characterises Plant’s distinctive approach creates an atmosphere of considerable depth and sophistication. Emerald mingles with sapphire, while ochre and terracotta introduce warmth and movement. It is a masterclass in chromatic confidence, demonstrating how colours that might seem fearless in isolation can sing together with elegance and grace when guided by a discerning eye.

This installation represents more than a showcase for de Gournay’s hand painted artistry, though the exquisite craftsmanship demands such recognition. Rather, it constitutes a celebration of that rare partnership between artist and artisan, where personal vision and heritage technique converge to create something entirely transcendent. The ‘Chandani’ design, now elevated within the pages of Plant’s book and across these Chelsea walls, stands as a testament to the enduring power of beauty, history and the courage to imagine interiors of remarkable distinction.

Imagery courtesy of de Gournay (@degournay).