Jumat, 17 April 2015

Common Arts And Crafts Style Decorating Elements

By Joanna Walsh


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.

Inspiration was taken from the natural world, with use of earthy organic colors and natural materials like wood and stone. Specific design elements are used by homeowners today that create this look, with wood probably being one of the most important ones. Wood has a natural, organic beauty and people wanting this type of decor would never ever paint it. The idea would be to showcase the natural grain of the wood as much as possible. Stains may be used which amplify rather than hide the natural grain.

The furniture created at this time is still sought after today. It has clean, square lines and is solid and comfortable. Oak was usually used and leather upholstery was the norm. Other kinds of wood are used to create furniture today and the most important consideration is usually how much attention to detail can be seen. Pieces do not have curves or ornamentation but the interest comes in the quality of wood used and the careful construction of each piece.

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.

Lighting plays an important part in creating the atmosphere in any home. The lamps used are those with geometric, clean lines combined with warm metal tones. Tiffany lamps are iconic elements of this type of decor but any lamp combining stained glass and metal is likely to be suitable. Leaded or stained glass windows with geometric or linear patterns are common features of homes built in this style.

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.

For those who enjoy a natural, simple aesthetic with the interest coming from finely crafted pieces, this style is very appealing. Simple and yet finely crafted furniture, textiles, accessories and lighting suited to this type of decor are sold at online stores today. Homeowners can buy pieces that they combine harmoniously to create a functional, comfortable home that has great beauty and an appealing artisan aesthetic.




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