Iron candlesticks compliment Mission-style decorated bedrooms.
Mission style -- also known as Craftsman style -- is the American interpretation of furniture, architecture and design from the Arts and Crafts movement. Mission style bedrooms have an earthy, somewhat masculine feel. Though living in a Craftsman home gives you a head start on the style, give any bedroom the Mission look by using period-appropriate elements and furnishings. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Paint your bedroom walls with a traditional color found in Mission design. Consider tan, brown, pumpkin, gold, rust, apricot or mossy green if you want a warm palette. Try berry, blue-green, sage or lilac for a cooler feel. Opt for muted, rather than bright shades of whichever color you choose.
2. Add a stately bed inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement, period or reproduction. Select one with straight lines and a somewhat heavy feel, without ostentatious ornamentation. Consider a panel, slat or Prairie bed; the latter features slats between thick square posts. Choose classic quartersawn oak if possible, or go with cherry or maple in a medium to dark finish.
3. Dress your bed with a mix of neutral solids and stylized, repeating patterned fabrics, such as those by William Morris or Liberty of London. Avoid fussy ruffles and flounces, and don't use a bed skirt unless your bed style demands it. Choose simple styling, such as a plain duvet cover or coverlet topped by flanged or welted pillow shams.
4. Furnish the rest of the room with nightstands and a dresser or chest that complements your bed, though they don't have to match exactly. Look for iron or copper hinges, knobs or drawer pulls with a hand-forged appearance. Stick with clean lined pieces that emphasize fine wood and fine craftsmanship, though some style appropriate carving or inlay is fine. Consider adding a classic slatted Morris chair and ottoman if you have the space.
5. Cover your windows with simple curtain panels made from cotton, linen or wool. Use solid fabrics in light, neutral colors for the most authentic look. Add interest by stenciling the hems with a geometric pattern, or go with a curvier, stylized stencil design inspired by your bed treatment fabric. Hang curtains on narrow brass or iron rods, from matching rings or hidden back tabs. Show off Mission-worthy woodwork by mounting the rods inside the window frame with barrel brackets. Use gooseneck brackets if you choose an outside mount.
6. Add bedside lamps with wood, iron or copper bases. Choose shades made from mica, or perhaps from stained or leaded glass. Look for similar materials for ceiling fixtures. Frame nature-inspired artwork, such as vintage illustrations from a botanical book. Finish the room with a few additional accessories, such as a collection of southwestern pottery and a trio of hand-forged iron candlesticks.
Tags: Arts Crafts, Arts Crafts movement, Crafts movement, iron copper, made from, Mission style