Interior Design Glossary: J

J

Jabot: A decorative, cascading fabric detail often found on the sides of a swaged valance.

Jacobean: A furniture style that dominated the first half of the 17th century, spanning from the reign of James I to Charles I. Many experts argue that all 17th-century furniture is heavily influenced by this design. Pieces are typically large, square, or rectangular, featuring intricate, tasteful low-relief carving. Chairs usually have flat seats with low stretchers, often rectangular, which are also seen in tables and other furniture. Oak is the predominant wood used.

Jacquard: Elaborate fabrics like tapestries, brocades, and damasks, featuring patterns woven from different-colored yarns.

Japanese Style: Traditional Japanese interiors required minimal furniture, with built-in chests and cupboards featuring sliding doors. Finishes often included highly polished lacquer with gold flecks, adorned with delicate floral, animal, and landscape designs. Floors were typically covered with rice straw mats used for sitting, along with cloth cushions and small lacquered wooden tables. Folding screens were an essential element, allowing rooms to be transformed easily. Japanese furniture designs have remained largely unchanged for centuries.

Japanning: A European and American technique involving multiple layers of heat-hardened lacquer, commonly used for creating chinoiserie patterns.

Jewelling: Decorative carvings resembling jewels, highly popular during the Renaissance period.

Jewelry Armoire: A tall, narrow chest designed for storing jewelry and fashion accessories.

Jute: A natural fiber plant often used in flooring.