Lacquer is making a comeback: Here's how to incorporate it in your home


A lacquer coffee table creates a sense of glamour in this living room. A lacquer dresser adds a touch of glamour in this master bedroom. A lacquer pedestal helps to fill an empty space in a home office. Photos: TNS

Once considered “over the top” and “showy”, lacquer is making a comeback.

The finish is now considered to be both modern and current and is being used in a variety of ­spaces in the home, from living rooms to bedrooms.

When used purposefully, lacquer can truly help to elevate a space, without overpowering it.

Looking for ways to infuse ­lacquer into your home? Here are some top tips.

A lacquer dresser sets the tone for glamour design in a master bedroom. (Scott Gabriel Morris/TNS)
A lacquer dresser sets the tone for glamour design in a master bedroom. (Scott Gabriel Morris/TNS)

– Contrast shine with matte materials. While a “glossy” look may be your desire, consider contrasting the shine of lacquer with matte materials such as wood.

– Use a lacquer furniture to help make a “statement”. Whether it is a dresser, desk or coffee table, consider allowing the lacquer element to take ­centre stage.

– Integrate colour. Lacquer pieces by design will bring opacity to a space, so this will be an opportunity for you to bring in “blocks” of colour.

A lacquer pedestal helps to fill an empty space in a home office.
A lacquer pedestal helps to fill an empty space in a home office.

– Be conscious of reflective ­surfaces such as mirrors and lighting. Lacquer is high shine so it will not only reflect, but in some cases “bounce” light.

– Choose high-quality pieces. You will want furniture that will stand the test of time, not chip or show wear and tear.

– Integrate lacquer selections with textures such as upholstery, rugs and textiles.

A lacquer desk is utilised in a child's bedroom.
A lacquer desk is utilised in a child's bedroom.

– Use lacquer to help modernise a space. Lacquer can help to create a modern, edgy vibe.

– Consider using elements of interesting shapes such as ovals and shapes that are organic.

– Be restrained. Be sure not to overload a space with too much gloss and shine.

– Use lacquer to help be a spring board to a design aesthetic or colour palette. – Tribune News Service

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