I’m always searching for beautiful pieces of pottery to use as accents in client’s homes. One of my favorites is Delftware from the Netherlands. It’s a style of pottery which is characteristically made with a white glaze, on which designs are made in a gorgeous shade of cobalt blue.

(Source: holland.com)

Delft pottery takes its name from the city in Holland in which it was originally made, and is traditionally known for a high level of detail in the design. During the Dutch Golden Age, the country had great ties with China and started importing huge quantities of Chinese porcelain. Many were impressed with the Chinese workmanship and attention to detail, and the result was a real refinement in Delftware production.

Delftware includes simple household items like tea sets and jars, as well as fancier pictorial plates illustrated with Dutch scenes, religious motifs, birds and flowers. I love the tiles made with the typical blue and white pattern to use on walls and floors. What do you think of this Delft-inspired kitchen?? Maybe a little over the top, but there’s something really striking about it! These are great for kitchen and bath tile designs.

(Source: Design Hole)

In fact, I think Delft pottery looks gorgeous in the kitchen… it has a kind of rustic, pretty country feel to it. How about serving tea on a scrubbed pine table in this uber-charming Delft tea set?

(Source: Decor Home Design)

I also love the effect of several Delft pieces grouped together. In keeping with the French country theme – even though Delft is Dutch! – this dresser looks oh-so-gorgeous arrayed with that distinctive blue and white pattern china! The blue gingham tablecloth just adds to that fabulous country kitchen look. Tea and cake, anyone?

(Source: Home magazine)

A client just recently asked me to interior design a master bathroom around a Delft inspired sink. Stay tuned to see how it turns out!