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COMFORT MINDED DÉCOR THEMES
Last week
we linked peoples’ preference for formal and tailored attire to home
décor themes ranging from European, Old World, Moroccan, and Victorian,
to Mission, Mid Century Modern, and Asian themes. If you feel best in
jeans, you may prefer styles that center on a more relaxed, comfortable
style, rather than formal.
Country
style is foremost when we think of comfort. It’s really a term that
includes a variety of styles that range from the simplicity and timeworn
look of Americana, to the cushier, but still informal feel, of French or
English Country.
Americana
uses wood plank floors, Windsor chairs, benches, wooden cupboards and
tables, eagle and lantern accessories, milk cans, and subdued, historic
colors. Rustic and very simple, it appeals to style purists.
French
Country, sometimes called Provincial, evolved from wealthier Frenchmen
living outside of the more formal décor of Paris and Versailles.
Rather than the delicate and intricate in the city, this look favors
heavier, and more cushioned wing back chairs, arms chairs with carved
frames and cabriole, or curved, legs, called bergeres, heavily carved
armoires with mirrored fronts, cotton and velvet fabrics, and nature
themes for carpet and art.
English Country also favors overstuffed chairs and sofas
with a heavy focus on nature. Often called English Garden, the idea is
to bring nature inside with loads of floral chintz fabrics, fringe on
draperies and pillows, light airy colors, emphasis on garden views, lots
of books and accessories, comfortable fireplace seating, and soft
lighting.
The Lodge look evokes the comfort and warmth seen on a
skiing vacation. Lots of interior wood, possibly on the ceiling,
exposed beams, large stone fireplaces, animal hide carpets, leather and
plaid comfort sofa and chairs, wagon wheel chandeliers, deep colors and
western art.
Tuscan styling still inspires us with its sun drenched and
earthy colors of ochre, sienna, and umber. The attention is on
distressed wood, lived-in looking sofas and chairs, clay tile floors,
distinctively painted pottery, airy windows, and wine and grape motifs.
Another faded glory look is found in Shabby Chic, sometimes
referred to as Cottage. It imitates the aged related patina found in
southern homes like New Orleans, drenched in humidity and sea mist.
Lots of whitewashed wood, sanded down to look old, vintage fabrics and
artifacts, light, bleached colors, flea market finds, and perhaps some
tarnished silver accessories.
Beach lovers might favor the Tropical look, with rattan and
sea grass furniture and sailcloth cushions, sisal carpeting, orchids and
other tropical plants and accessories, sheer curtains, and palm tree
art. Colors can either center around ocean blues and greens, or on more
exotic spice colors.
Look in magazines, TV, and showcase houses to get ideas
until one style really grabs you. Not all of the elements in a style
are needed, just enough to make the style apparent. Too many grapes and
wine bottles, for example, can overwhelm a Tuscan look.
Next week we’ll look at ideas on how to successfully combine
different styles.
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