At just 27, Guanyuan Ji has emerged as a visionary in China’s design landscape, transforming her artistic flair from illustration into the foundation of Guanyuanji, one of the nation’s most talked-about new lifestyle brands. Her eponymous label is a testament to the power of reimagining Chinese folklore through a distinctly modern lens, creating an impact with designs that resonate deeply with contemporary consumers.
Guanyuanji’s philosophy is rooted in reinterpreting traditional aesthetics for modern living, capturing the spirit and vitality of a younger generation eager to connect with their heritage in new ways. This “New Chinese Style” (xinzhongshi) movement, as exemplified by Guanyuanji, blends traditional craftsmanship with modern sensibilities, making cultural identity accessible through everyday objects.
The brand’s success is evident in its captivating product lines, which have quickly become sought-after items. Imagine bamboo candles that sold out in a mere three days, incense meticulously scented with delicate notes of tea and pine, and peach-shaped lamps that appear plucked straight from an ancient myth. Each item feels less like a product and more like a small ritual, inviting users into a dreamscape where nostalgia meets fantasy.
Guanyuanji’s commitment to this unique blend of tradition and modernity was highlighted in a notable collaboration in September 2023. Partnering with Molly Tea and illustrator-artist XIETU, the brand unveiled the “Eastern Garden Series.” This collection featured a new tea, SHUIDIXIANG, and an artistic home fragrance, “Lucky Peach,” each meticulously crafted to tell a story of Eastern romance.
Through its unique offerings and artistic collaborations, Guanyuanji is crafting experiences as much as it is offering lifestyle products. Guanyuan Ji herself has successfully built a world where every object is an invitation to celebrate Chinese heritage with a fresh, contemporary perspective, solidifying her brand’s place at the forefront of modern Chinese lifestyle design.
All images (except Molly Tea) via Instagram/@guanyuanji97.
