Interior Decorating Styles - Part Three - The 18th to Mid 19th Century

Knowing your preferred decorating style is the best way to approach a decorating project from a point of knowledge. The information will help you to tackle your own decorating project or to speak confidently to a decorator or designer when communicating your vision for your space. In part three we will look at a few of the decorative styles contributed by the 18th Century and begin the Mid 19th Century. This five part series on interior decorating styles will give you an overview of contributions offered to the decorating industry.

In the 18th century two styles of architecture and decoration dominated the first half of the century. The first style was Palladianism. Palladianism was derived from the writings and engravings of the 16th century Italian architect, Andrea Palladio. This particular style was characterized by bold, austere, and large architectural elements such as Venetian windows. Venetian windows were used a great deal by Palladio. This particular window is arched with two lower rectangular openings on each side.

During the 18th century, floors were often bare with sisal matting or oriental carpets. The ceilings were coffered with plaster moldings. A coffered ceiling is a ceiling that consists of recessed panels in the shape of a square, rectangle, or octagon and is usually trimmed with ornamental motifs. This type of ceiling actually dates back as far as the 6th century as both a decorative element and as a means of lightening the load of a heavy marble or stone ceiling. Back then you would only see a coffered ceiling in the homes of the very rich, but today, coffered ceilings are available to everyone and can even be purchased in kits. It is a popular look in libraries. The walls were paneled and painted with a flat paint usually in grey or green or hand painted wall papers. The walls were meant to be the backdrop for paintings, prints, or engravings. The Palladianism style featured furniture made of solid or veneered walnut. Veneered furniture is actually very well made. The thin wood overlay is fragile in its natural state or by itself; because it's generally only 1/64 inch thick, but when it's properly glued to another surface it becomes part of that surface and has considerable strength. Special care must be taken when sanding because it is so thin you can sand right through it. But, the good news is that it doesn't take much sanding to smooth it, because it is sliced with an extremely sharp knife. Palladianism style furniture typically consists of tripod tables, bureau bookcases, and upholstered chairs usually in a fabric that coordinates with the window treatment.

The second distinctive style of Early 18th century was Rococo. This style was lighter, exotic, and it seemed almost frivolous in appearance. Rococo was recognized because of the use of Rocaille, Chinoiserie (Oriental art and motifs), Turkish and Indian figures. Roacille is another word for Rococo which is the Italian word for style. It is the most opulent excessive version of the Louis XV form. It is characterized by exaggerated curves and extensive carving, sculpting, and ornamentation, most commonly including scrolls and seashells. Flowers, foliage and light scroll work was often used. A popular color for the walls was light yellow. However, the Rococo style was not very popular in America.

The Late 18th Century saw a predominant style called Neo-Classicism. It first emerged in the 1750's in Europe. Neo-classicism was a reaction to the flamboyant and frivolous style of Rococo. Neo-Classicism reached the United States in the 1780s. Actually, in many respects it is a natural extension of early century Palladianism. Because the Rococo style never quite caught on in the United States, it was pretty much over looked and the next style, Neo-Classicism, went back to the Palladianism style for its inspiration. Now, Roman architecture was taking center stage again, but, unlike Palladianism, ancient Greek architecture was also included. Neo-Classical interiors were elegant and are well suited for traditional style homes. The Neo-Classical style had lightness to it and featured a great deal of linear decoration. The walls were mostly divided by a dado or a chair rail. Essentially, a dado divides a wall horizontally and is usually about 36 inches from the floor. Its purpose is to keep the backs of chairs from damaging the wall. The walls of a Neo-Classical styled space usually were covered with a flat paint or patterned wall paper. Furniture pieces used were embellished with painted swags of flowers, ornamental bows, and cupids, and other mythological scenes. Solid or veneered mahogany wood was typically used. The windows were treated with swaged and tailed drapes. The fabrics used for drapes were not heavy in weight such as tapestries and woolen velvets. Simpler fabrics were used. Neo-Classicism preferred light weight silks, printed cottons and sheers. These types of window treatments are popular in what we call Contemporary spaces.

During the 19th Century interior decoration was still basically Neo-Classical. The predominant styles that emerged during the early 19th century were the Empire and Regency styles. These styles were in celebration of Napoleon's conquests which provided military motifs. The Empire style originated in France in the 1790s. The basic architectural style of the French palaces was Classical. Fixtures and furniture included laurel wreaths, medallions, and imperial eagles, swans, and lions. The Regency style drew inspiration from Greek ornament and incorporated elements of Chinoiserie. And, both of the styles saw an increase in the use of cut pile carpets. The ceilings were built lower and usually there was a medallion in the center where the chandelier hung. Flat paint was still used on the walls in addition to faux finish paint treatments becoming popular. Faux marble and woodgrained finishes were used on doors and other wood work. Fabrics in the Regency style were light weight silks and floral patterned chintzes. The chaise lounge became popular. Upholstered chairs, settees and sofas were very generously stuffed, and most times deep-buttoned or tufted. And a new development of permanent groupings of chairs and tables to facilitate conversation became more prevalent.

During the Mid 19th Century the color palette of interiors began to broaden and include more vibrant colors. What may seem over the top and excessive to us today was considered chic and sophisticated in the mid 19th century. As with most things, eventually the color palette and excessive interiors became less ostentatious. Also, an eclectic mix of decorative styles became fashionable.

We will explore more of the Eclectic style in part 4 of the interior decorating style series as we continue to talk about the Mid 19th Century and late 19th Century.

©Rena Bullard 2010

This article may be reprinted, in its entirety, with copyright information.

Rena Bullard is certified and trained as an Interior Decorator and is currently continuing her studies to become an Interior Designer. Rena is a member of The Society of Decorating Professionals, an expert writer for Ezine Articles and a contributing writer for The Society of Decorating Professionals' blog and online magazine, The Decorator's Notebook, as well as her own blog on how to address decorating dilemmas. Rena interviews industry professionals and offers free decorating tips as the host of her own podcast radio show called, ReDecorating by Rena, which broadcasts on Blog Talk Radio.

Follow Rena on twitter under: redecorating.

Rena can be reached via her website: [http://www.redecoratingbyrena.com]

Mediterranean Interior Design Styles

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Why is the Mediterranean interior design trend taking the industry by storm? It is most likely because of its timelessness and the atmosphere of a laid-back lifestyle it imparts.

Mediterranean interior design makes use of the colors of the earth and the sky, including yellow, lavender, peach, orange, salmon, and other hues that reflect the jaunty Mediterranean culture.

Intricate tile works, massive urns, and heavy wrought iron gates and grills all come together to define Mediterranean interior design and can blend well with other types of furniture and decor.

Mediterranean interior design also makes use of foliage not just for the landscaping but also as accent pieces for a home's interiors. Houses making use of Mediterranean interior design do not have too many structures that serve no purpose. Usually, architecture is simple and personal touches depend on the homeowner's own collections and decor.

An individual who wishes to implement Mediterranean interior design techniques makes liberal use of mosaic tiles for backsplashes or floorings, burnished hardware, and sparse ornamentation.

The furniture used for Mediterranean interior design can be a combination of French Country, Italian, Greek, and Spanish pieces which never go out of date. This is why Mediterranean interior design is a very popular style among first-time homeowners who are bent on keeping their homes for a long time.

Embarking On A Mediterranean Interior Design Project

Due to its immense popularity these days, there is never a dearth of supplies of Mediterranean decor and accessories. People who have decided on using this style for their homes know that it is not difficult to achieve this look, and neither is it too expensive.

All you need to work on a Mediterranean interior design project is creativity and a lot of research. A common element of homes with this style is the signature paint. Most homes using this theme use a rich terra-cotta tint for the walls. Those who find this color a bit too dark, though, may go for a more cheerful shade of yellow or a striking French blue.

Indeed, the color alone may be enough to evoke the Mediterranean atmosphere, but you should also try to achieve the wall texture that these types of homes are known for.

There are paint rollers which, when applied, leave a rough texture pattern reminiscent of classic Mediterranean abodes. Remember to use flat paint and not the enamel type of paint so as to achieve the needed chalky texture.

The furniture that's appropriate for Mediterranean interior design must be sleek and simple, with classic curves and patterns that call upon the romanticism of the easy Mediterranean lifestyle.

You could make use of wrought-iron garden sets for the lawn and comfortable oversize couches for the interiors. If you can't afford new couches and chairs, you could have them upholstered in neutral fabrics and accessorize these with colorful pillows and shawls.

Once you're done choosing the big pieces, you can now pick out the lighting. Track lights are a good bet for Mediterranean interior design, despite what purists may say. Lamps, whether they're etabletop lamps or standing lamps, give some serenity to a room and can be moved around when needed.

To top off your Mediterranean interior design project, bring in some plants to brighten up the space. If you're not too keen on tending plants that need to be regularly taken out for sunlight, invest in a striking flower.

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Architectural Styles Primer

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The architecture of the United States has included a wide variety of styles throughout its history. Home styles in the U.S. are regionally diverse and the shapes they have taken on have been influenced by many other types of architecture. The result is an eclectic mix of different home styles can often be found within the same neighborhood, even on the same block. Here are some of the most popular types of houses that can be found in most parts of America.

The Cape Cod style home originated in colonial New England and they were built as early as the 1600s through the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s. In colonial days, a Cape Cod house was a simple, one-story structure made of wood with a single chimney in the center and a symmetrical appearance. Cape Cod houses have a steep roof with side gables, dormers for light, shutters, and little exterior ornamentation.

Georgian Colonial was a popular architectural style during the 1700's through the 1850s and can be mainly found in the east and south. Spacious and comfortable, Georgian Colonial homes are square and symmetrical in shape with a paneled door in the center. A distinctive, decorative crown usually adorns the entrance before a medium pitched roof. Columns or flattened columns can be found on either side of the door. Sound familiar? The most famous example of late Georgian architecture is the White House.

In the mid-19th century, many prosperous Americans believed that ancient Greece represented the spirit of democracy. It is no wonder then that during this time period, Greek Revival was a popular form of architecture. Greek Revivals have details reminiscent of the Parthenon, with pillars and a stately appearance. Greek Revival houses usually have a symmetrical shape, pedimented gables, and bold-but-simple moldings. Many Greek Revival houses also tend to have a front porch with columns, decorative pilasters, and narrow windows.

The Queen Anne style became an architectural fashion in the 1880s and 1890s. The industrial revolution brought new technologies that enabled builders to use pre-cut exterior trim that had been mass produced to create whimsical looking houses. Victorian Queen Anne homes often have round or square towers, turrets, wrap-around porches, and other fanciful details. Queen Anne houses may also have a steep roof, front facing gables, an asymmetrical shape, bay windows, and ornamental spindles and brackets.

With Tudor Revivals, the name almost suggests that these houses were built in the 1500s during the Tudor Dynasty in England, but really they are early 20th century re-inventions of Medieval cottages and even palaces. In fact, they are also referred to as Medieval Revivals. Tudor Revival houses have decorative half-timbers exposed to give the appearance of a medieval house. They may even include a false thatched roof. Decorative woodwork and some brick-work can be found on the exterior walls. Tudor style homes may also have steeply pitched roofs, massive chimneys, prominent cross gables, and narrow windows with small panes.

Victorian Stick houses grew in popularity during the mid-19th century. Victorian Sticks can often be mistaken for Tudor Revivals, as they also have exposed timbers or "stickwork" and other details borrowed from medieval times. However, most Tudor Revival houses are sided with stucco, stone, or brick, while Victorian Stick style houses are usually made with wood. Victorian Stick homes tend to have a rectangular shape, steep gabled roofs, overhanging eves, and decorative braces and brackets.

Colonial Revival became a standard in the 19th and 20th centuries as Americans sought to express their patriotism and return to classic architectural styles. During that time, builders romanticized colonial architecture, designing rectangular brick homes that were 2 to 3 stories tall. The living areas are on the first floor and bedrooms are on the upper floors. Colonial Revival houses have a symmetrical façade, brick or wood siding, simple detailing, a gabled roof, and dormers. Some may even have a temple-like entrance, with pillars or columns and porticos topped by pediments. The Colonial Revivals were so popular, homes of this style were still being built until the mid-1950's.

California Bungalows, Craftsman Bungalows, and Chicago Bungalows were variations of affordable housing type that swept across the U.S. throughout much of the 20th century. Bungalow houses come in many styles, but most have simple box-like, horizontal shapes, are one and a half stories tall, have an efficient floor plan with living spaces on the ground floor, rooms connected by hallways, and a living room at the center. The kitchens also tend to have built-in cabinets, shelves, and seats.

The Foursquare style home, sometimes called the Prairie Box, was pioneered by Frank Lloyd Wright in the early 20th century. As the name suggests, they have a simple box shape and a four-room floor plan. Simple Foursquare houses were built in brick, stone, stucco, concrete block, or wood and have large central dormers. Full-width porches with wide stairs are also popular in Foursquare style architecture.

Uncomplicated Ranch houses evolved from several 20th century styles, including ramblers and bungalows. Sometimes referred to as a California Rambler, Ranch Style houses are usually one-story tall and rectangular, L-shaped, or U-shaped in design. They tend to have a low-pitched gable roof, deeply-set eaves, attached garages, large windows and sliding glass doors.

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Neoclassical and Rococo Styles After Baroque Period

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Neoclassical and Rococo styles contrast to each other. Neoclassicism appeared in 1780s, following Rococo style. Neoclassicism was a reaction to fluffiness and elaboration of Rococo style. These two movements gave rise after Baroque, one of the most impressive periods in the history of art.

Rococo movement gave rise against Baroque at the end of the reign of the Sun King, Louis XIV. Baroque artists used geometrical shapes and aimed to give a dramatic and theatrical effect. It was complex and highly elaborated. Large scale designs were one of the basic features of Baroque. Scenes from Bible were used as Baroque themes. Baroque artists aimed to evoke a feeling of respect and fear and to emphasize the power of the Sun King. When the king died, the court artists moved away from formal Baroque art to a lighter and playful style, which was Rococo.

If we assume Baroque as a bottle of champagne, Rococo can be assumed as the foam on the champagne. Rococo art has some stylistic features of Baroque such as the complex forms, but the themes the Rococo artists are interested in were lighter. They did not deal with serious issues such as religious, moral or political themes. Instead, they focused on lively physical world, social life of aristocracy, personal amusement, romance and pleasure.Rococo style was characterized by asymmetry, curved lines and ornaments. Mostly, soft, pastel colors were used in Rococo style in contrast to dark colors of Baroque period. On the contrary to magnificent architecture and huge marble statues of Baroque period, Rococo style expressed itself mostly in small-scale interior designs, furniture, tapestries, porcelains and paintings. It is generally known as a decorative art style.

At the end of eighteenth century, Neoclassicism appeared as a reaction to the elaboration, lightness and bourgeoisie of Rococo style and focused on proportional and simple forms, virtual themes and Roman antiquity. Neoclassical artists cared for technical perfection, harmony and balance. Geometrical forms and columns were the main features of Neoclassical style. Sharp colors were used in contrast to pale colors of Rococo. Neoclassicism was a strong movement in literature and music as well as in architecture and visual arts.

Interest in Roman antiquity aroused with the archeological studies of the period. Discovery of antique ruins stimulated an admiration of civilization, art and glories of Greek and Roman era. The taste of art totally changed and ideal beauty of antique art was favored rather than nature itself. The neoclassical artists were inspired by noble simplicity of Greek and Roman figures. Meanwhile, it was the period of revolutionary movements and ancient Greek democracy was highly appreciated in this period. After serving to French Revolution, Neoclassicism had been the official art of the French empire when Napoleon took over power and aimed to show the magnificence of the empire with heroic figures. Neoclassical themes were based on virtues such as heroism, courage, honor, justice, devotion to duty and self-sacrifice. Neoclassicism dominated until the end of nineteenth century.