VOICES FROM THE FIELD: AN EXPLORATORY SURVEY OF IMITATION AND FORMALISM IN NEO-CHINESE INTERIOR DESIGN

Abstract

In recent years, Neo-Chinese Interior Design (NCID) has become a distinctive stylistic movement in China, reconceptualizing traditional Chinese cultural motifs through the lens of contemporary design. However, its rise has been accompanied by academic concerns regarding widespread imitation and formalism that may hinder its authentic evolution and cultural depth. This study investigates practicing designers’ critical perspectives on these phenomena. Using a structured questionnaire, data were collected from 70 interior designers in Qingdao, a major city in Eastern China. Quantitative analysis revealed that over half of the respondents acknowledge imitation and formalism as prevalent issues. Qualitative analysis of the data underscores a need for more theoretical and methodological guidance to move beyond imitation and achieve genuine innovation in NCID. The study concludes that the widespread imitation and formalism in contemporary NCID pose significant challenges to its sustainable development. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach, including developing effective methods for integrating traditional culture with modern innovation through design education and bridging the education-market gap through practical verification. These findings not only provide essential references for the education and practice research of NCID but also offer valuable insights into the reinterpretation of traditional culture in contemporary interior design across other cultural contexts.