In a reaction against the decor of the Victorian era with its complex patterns and fussy designs, designers felt the need to return to more organic, natural designs and celebrate true craftsmanship once more. The backlash came in the form of the arts and crafts style decorating movement that began in England in the late 1900s and later spread to America where it was given its own expression by designers. Inspiration was drawn from the natural world in the neutral color palettes, used with contrasting earthy colored accessories to add depth.
Wood is one of the most important elements of this style of decor. The natural beauty of its grain is showcased and therefore painting it is not an option. Stains are used, however, as these enhance the grain. Other natural elements often used are rustic stone and hammered or distressed metals.
The furniture created in the days when this movement was at its height was solid, heavy, unadorned and comfortable. It was often made of oak and featured leather upholstery. Clean, square, angular profiles were evident. Today, the furniture used is made from different types of wood. However, the quality of material used matters and it must have clear, simple lines and be carefully constructed.
The colors used take their cue from nature. Lighter, neutral colors work well with the warmth of wood. Accessories are used to bring in accent colors such as moss green, mustard, amber and brown. Earthy tones add depth and contrast to the neutral palette.
As this type of decor is not fussy, not too many accessories are used but lighting is important. Lamps are used to create a rich, organic glow. Metals such as copper and bronze are combined with stained glass in lighting fixtures. Tiffany lamps are iconic to the style but any lamps that offer clean lines, simple geometric forms and warm metal tones are suitable. Stained and leaded glass windows are also common in such houses, usually featuring linear or geometric patterns.
Flooring is also chosen to reflect nature. Stone, hardwood and slate floors are common, chosen for the patterns, color and variations that make them unique. The more they reflect natural beauty, the better they are. Handmade rugs cover these floors and often feature an interesting motif.
Metals like copper, bronze and brass are used instead of steel or chrome. The warm tones of these metals set off the wooden elements. For example, a hammered copper bowl may rest on a wooden table. Glazed tiles and pottery are also common, as are simple stencils that reflect the sentiments of a happy home.
The warmth of wood, clean lines, earthy colors and superior craftsmanship still appeal to many homeowners today. Many of the elements such as flooring, lighting, furnishings and accessories are sold online. Homeowners buy these elements and combine them in simple but harmonious ways to make a home inviting and comfortable. They enjoy the simplicity and yet artistic flair of these elements that go into making a comfortable and yet stylish environment.
Wood is one of the most important elements of this style of decor. The natural beauty of its grain is showcased and therefore painting it is not an option. Stains are used, however, as these enhance the grain. Other natural elements often used are rustic stone and hammered or distressed metals.
The furniture created in the days when this movement was at its height was solid, heavy, unadorned and comfortable. It was often made of oak and featured leather upholstery. Clean, square, angular profiles were evident. Today, the furniture used is made from different types of wood. However, the quality of material used matters and it must have clear, simple lines and be carefully constructed.
The colors used take their cue from nature. Lighter, neutral colors work well with the warmth of wood. Accessories are used to bring in accent colors such as moss green, mustard, amber and brown. Earthy tones add depth and contrast to the neutral palette.
As this type of decor is not fussy, not too many accessories are used but lighting is important. Lamps are used to create a rich, organic glow. Metals such as copper and bronze are combined with stained glass in lighting fixtures. Tiffany lamps are iconic to the style but any lamps that offer clean lines, simple geometric forms and warm metal tones are suitable. Stained and leaded glass windows are also common in such houses, usually featuring linear or geometric patterns.
Flooring is also chosen to reflect nature. Stone, hardwood and slate floors are common, chosen for the patterns, color and variations that make them unique. The more they reflect natural beauty, the better they are. Handmade rugs cover these floors and often feature an interesting motif.
Metals like copper, bronze and brass are used instead of steel or chrome. The warm tones of these metals set off the wooden elements. For example, a hammered copper bowl may rest on a wooden table. Glazed tiles and pottery are also common, as are simple stencils that reflect the sentiments of a happy home.
The warmth of wood, clean lines, earthy colors and superior craftsmanship still appeal to many homeowners today. Many of the elements such as flooring, lighting, furnishings and accessories are sold online. Homeowners buy these elements and combine them in simple but harmonious ways to make a home inviting and comfortable. They enjoy the simplicity and yet artistic flair of these elements that go into making a comfortable and yet stylish environment.
No comments:
Post a Comment