Chrissy Teigen's wall feature revives a 15th-century decorating quirk with a contemporary appeal

Tapestries have shaped the grandest of homes since the mid-15th century, but this statement feature has just found its most recent admirer in one of the most celebrated abodes in Los Angeles. 

Chrissy Teigen and John Legend's residence, curated by design force Jake Arnold, exemplifies chic modern style – but that hasn't stopped the model from taking some inspiration from a time gone by – as is the case with her intricate tapestry. The model hung an antique-style piece, complete with soldier and tree motifs that nod to history in her otherwise modern space. 

However, aesthetics aside, the benefits of tapestries are abundant. So, it is unsurprising that Chrissy is not alone in her love for this piece. 

'Tapestries add a rich layer to a home. As works of art in themselves, they add a warmth and texture, as well as an imposing presence that establishes and grounds a dining room, a corridor or a stairwell,' comments designer Camilla Clarke.

Camilla Clarke

Creative director at London-based interior design firm, Albion Nord, Camilla Clarke has worked at some of London’s leading interior design practices. Clarke uses her artistic background to influence her interior designs on everything from contemporary penthouses to Georgian homes.

'Antique tapestries strewn with medieval reference, stylized foliage, buttressed castles, and mounted knights hung above a sofa or an overmantel bring an old-world charm to the most contemporary of rooms, and the contrast between more contemporary pieces in close proximity can be really arresting.'

Chrissy's tapestry covers most of the wall behind her dining table – a look that Camilla recommends replicating.  

'When hanging a tapestry, consider the scale of the room and source options that fill the walls generously,' she explains.'Upscaling with statement pieces and artworks is a loose rule we use to ensure your rooms look abundant with objects of beauty. There is nothing worse than a too-small piece of furniture or artwork.'

Alternatively, hanging our tapestries near a window to complement the motifs can be impactful. 

'Tapestries often help to bring the outside world in, with landscape scenes of dense foliage and earthy colors. We often like to hang tapestries near or opposite windows to create an extension of the outdoor within a room,' the designer adds.

As mentioned, Chrissy's home epitomizes modernity, but that hasn't stopped her from experimenting with this antique quirk. So, while tapestries will always have a rightful place in the most traditional of settings, we shouldn't be afraid to follow Chrissy's lead and experiment in a more contemporary setting. 

'Antique tapestries are full of history and storytelling executed with the highest craftsmanship. Make a statement by juxtaposing a thickly woven tapestry in a light contemporary setting,' Camilla agrees. 'This has an incredible impact and will highlight its charm and beauty.'

Shop the look with our handpicked tapestries below.