Two major styles
competed for predominance throughout the 20th century – traditional and modern.
In general, it has been agreed that traditional styling has taken priority, but
there has still been a strong following for modern interior design.
Colonial style interior design proved exceptionally popular in the first half
of the 20th century, with two major sub-styles coming to the fore. Both Early
American and 18th century themes were regularly found in homes that exhibited
colonial style interior
decorating.
How to Get the Early American Look in Your Home
Quilting
& Handicrafts
If you are clever at crafts, you could always use
one of the many design books available to help you design and create your own
quilt. On the other hand, you could always get one made up to your
specifications, using samples of your favourite materials. In the Early
American style, quilts would be used on beds and walls to live in the space as
well as to create warmth. You too, could emulate this style and capitalize on
it by adding quilted cushions and pillows. Other crafts have a place in the
Early American inspired home too. If you knit or crochet you could make cushion
covers or blankets, try hand-making some simple drapes or turn your hand to
making a rag rug. Handmade items were a strong feature of Early American style
so if you aren’t crafty yourself, look for authentic looking items in stores
and scatter them liberally in your rooms.
Colors
This era was represented by natural and sombre
shades. There is no room in this era for anything vibrant or too colorful.
Whites, browns, yellow; reds and greys are all perfect for recreating this
style.
Floors & Walls
Hardwood flooring is the key to recreating the look
of the period. Cherry, walnut and mahogany are all good choices as long as they
are covered with handmade rugs. Walls may be panelled or whitewashed,
preferably with featured stencilled decoration of fruit or flowers in borders
or murals. Crown moulding and dado rails were popular in this period and are
easy to recreate.
Furnishings
The rustic styling of the Early American period led
to an emphasis on heavy and traditional furniture. Simple pine, birch or maple
cabinets together with trestle tables, trunks and ladder back chairs all have
an authentic feel, and should preferably be handmade. Lighting should feature
cast iron lamps, with chandeliers and candle holders to complete the period
look. Should you have difficulty in locating genuine antiques, there are plenty
of excellent reproductions out there that will give the same effect.
Simplicity
The keyword of the Early American era was
simplicity. Everything was functional as well as versatile and clutter was a
definite no . Clean lines were the order of the day and so accessories should
be kept to a minimum. A few pitchers of flowers, an embroidered sampler, a
wicker basket or two and perhaps a linen runner will be enough to give a hint
of colonial elegance. Make sure, however, that you don’t leave your room too
bare and minimalist – your home should retain a lived in warmth that makes it
welcoming and inviting.
Pewter
Pewter was the metal of the day. It could be found
everywhere in the traditional colonial home from serving plates to utensils. Featuring
some pewter serving pieces prominently displayed in your home harks back to
this simpler time and you could add to this look with some copper cooking pots
or brass accessories.
Converting your home to adopt this colonial style
interior decoration will serve to make your home elegant and simple. The style
lends itself to creating bright, airy interiors that make a pleasant and
attractive living environment.
Visit us : www.monnaie.in
or www.monnaieinteriors.com
Mail us : bglr@monnaie.in
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