American style
is a study in improvisation.
American interior design is a study in improvisation. If necessity is the mother of invention, it is the grandmother of American style. Based on such elements as making do with what you have on the Frontier, American style is often thought of as an eclectic mix of functional items with a variety of influences. The focus is comfort and relaxed style, the artful mixture of the old with the new and good, old-fashioned American Ingenuity. Does this Spark an idea?
Pioneer Style
Pioneer style includes a balanced mixture of masculine and feminine elements.
A simple mix of handmade masculine and feminine elements are the basis for American Pioneer style. Begin with a log cabin built from the sweat of the pioneer family man filled with twig rocking chairs, deer hoof side tables and other furniture improvised from whatever is available at the time. Add quilts, lace doilies and other 'hope chest' inspired d cor for the pioneer woman's touch. Homespun checkered curtains and tablecloth, rag rugs and a wagon wheel chandelier are a fabulous finishing touch for this simple style.
Mixing the 'Old Country' With the New
Integrate elements from the "Old Country," whichever country that is for you.
Wherever your ancestors came from, whether it was 200 years ago or 20, integrating typical elements from that 'Old Country' with modern elements from the new is a classic theme in American d cor. Picture a vintage chest topped with a mixture of old and new elements and flea market finds. Incorporate antiques brought over from the homeland with brand new, Amish-made pieces. Punched tin designs on brand new cabinet doors and painted stencils on dresser drawers are another way to infuse the old with the new.
American Ingenuity
Stained glass is not just for churches.
Frank Lloyd Wright has long been considered the quintessential American architect. Wright inspired home d cor includes mission-style furniture and a mix of outdoor elements brought indoors. Think deep, rich colors and lots of natural elements from heavy timbers to stone walls and plenty of glass to let the outside in. Wright is also known for his gorgeous stained glass windows in a variety of motifs. Dark timbers complemented by detailed stained glass inserts are a distinctive example of this classic American design.
Theme Decorating
Try a nautical theme.
Theme decorating is common in the U.S. Simply choose a favored theme and buy up everything you can find in that theme. For instance, a nautical-themed home would display plenty of boats, light houses and anchors interspersed with sea shells and drift wood. Or choose something you are passionate about and carry that theme throughout your entire house. For instance, Wisconsin is well known for its Green Bay Packer-themed rooms complete with Packer-themed bedding and lamps complemented by framed pictures of Brett Favre and Lambeau Field.
Tags: elements from, American style, American Ingenuity, feminine elements, masculine feminine, masculine feminine elements, stained glass