The Chinoiserie Dollhouse

Pottery Bard Kids Chelsea House Dollhouse

 

I have really gotten bitten by the miniatures bug since playing around with my two dollhouses recently. I have been thinking about getting a new dollhouse. My plan is of course to fill it with chinoiserie minis.

To refresh your memory, I have a garden folly and a rattan beach house, both shown below.

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The blue and white elephant table I posted about arrived in the mail yesterday. I suspect he may end up in the new dollhouse.

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I would love to have a large formal dollhouse that I can put in things like marble and herringbone hardwood floors, chinoiserie wallpaper, and lots of chinoiserie furnishings. After much research, I have narrowed it down to this Pottery Barn Kids Chelsea House dollhouse. 

Pottery Barn Kids dollhouses get excellent reviews, with many comments from people saying they have had theirs a decade and that they are heirloom quality. The Chelsea House is well priced and even on sale. And it is wood and all preassembled - I don't want a kit. I love that it is a formal townhouse - it reminds me of Alexandria, Virginia. 

If you have a child or grandchild you have been thinking of getting a dollhouse for or are thinking of one for yourself, this would be a great choice. And it is a great activity to do with a child or grandchild.

Yes, adults can absolutely have dollhouses; it's a popular hobby for stress relief, creative expression, and collecting, often involving detailed miniature artistry, with many adults finding joy in building, decorating, and curating tiny worlds that reflect personal tastes, from historical accuracy to modern designs. The stigma of adults playing with toys has faded, and dollhouses are seen as a healthy, engaging pastime, with thriving online communities and high-end artisan items available.  

Why Adults Love Dollhouses -

Mindfulness & Stress Relief: The focused, immersive nature of miniature work is calming and provides a break from daily life, much like other crafts. 

Creative Outlet: It's a chance to design dream interiors, recreate historical homes, or build fantasy spaces, offering limitless design possibilities. 

Collecting & Craftsmanship: Many adults collect unique artisan miniatures or build intricate, museum-quality scenes, showcasing high-level skill. 

Nostalgia: It's a way to reconnect with childhood passions, often fulfilling a desire for a dollhouse that wasn't possible as a child. 

Community: Adults join global networks of makers and collectors, sharing tips and creations online and at events. 

Here is the back of the Chelsea House - 

Pottery Barn Kids Chelsea House

I will of course be getting it unfurnished although there are furnishings available if you are getting it for a child.

This will be great fun finding vintage chinoiserie miniatures. I will post along the way.

And BTW, I plan to put in on a table base. I will also post about options.