Origin: Rooted in mid-18th-century Europe; the simplified version spread in Vietnam from the 2000s
Neoclassicism began in mid-18th-century Europe as a reaction against Baroque and Rococo excess, returning to Greek and Roman proportion. In Vietnam the term now describes a simplified classical look for modern life: panel mouldings, symmetrical layouts, chandeliers and a palette of white, cream, beige and grey with restrained gold. Popular for villas and upscale townhouses, it is elegant without being heavy, provided mouldings and lights are scaled to the ceiling height.
Illustration drawn by HICONIQUE from the style’s palette and signature details.