The Victorian era was known for its overblown style and fussy decor, using furnishing produced in factories. As a reaction against this, arts and crafts style decorating took off in England in the late nineteenth century. This movement spread to the United States, where it was taken up by American designers and interpreted in their own way. Designers wanted to create environments governed by fine workmanship to counteract the negative impact of mechanization.
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.
With inspiration being drawn from nature, many lighter colors and neutrals are used. These work well together with the rich tones of wooden furniture. Accent colors also echo the colors of nature such as a cushion in a moss or forest greens, a distressed copper bowl or a beautiful terracotta pot.
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.
Clutter is avoided in these interiors and the few accessories used are carefully chosen for the most impact. Hammered or distressed metal accessories are popular as they compliment wood so well. Glazed tiles, pottery and simple stencils are also features of these interiors.
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.
With inspiration being drawn from nature, many lighter colors and neutrals are used. These work well together with the rich tones of wooden furniture. Accent colors also echo the colors of nature such as a cushion in a moss or forest greens, a distressed copper bowl or a beautiful terracotta pot.
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.
Clutter is avoided in these interiors and the few accessories used are carefully chosen for the most impact. Hammered or distressed metal accessories are popular as they compliment wood so well. Glazed tiles, pottery and simple stencils are also features of these interiors.
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.
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