Origin: Appeared in early 18th-century France, growing out of Baroque and linked with the reign of Louis XV
Rococo arose in early 18th-century France, splitting from Baroque into something lighter and more intimate. The name comes from "rocaille", the shell-and-rock motif. Its marks are asymmetrical flowing curves, foliage, shells, slender mirror frames and a pastel range of pale blue, pink and cream. Rooms were typically small, cosy salons rather than great halls.
Because of that small scale, Rococo suits Vietnamese townhouses and apartments better than Baroque. Try pastel walls with fine mouldings, a set of curved-leg chairs, a carved floral mirror and a small chandelier. In the humid north, favour moisture-resistant paint and well-treated timber, and replace real gilding with durable metallic paint or imitation gilt that wipes clean.
