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Remember that the secret to successfully achieving this look is updating traditional components with the contemporary version. You can opt for a modern and simple pendant lamp, visually pleasing wall sconces, or a contemporary spin on the classic chandelier. Employing the right fixtures and accents have proven to transform a space within seconds. See to it that each piece reflects your genuine personality rather than what you think is trending amongst everyone else.
Key Elements of Colonial Interior Design Style
Earthy materials will also be seen in the New Colonial style which include wood, wicker, stone, brick, clay, wrought iron, and copper. Colonial Revival architecture is one of the most widespread and well-known residential architectural trends in America’s history. We can trace its origins back to 1876, when the country celebrated its centennial, inspiring (some) Americans to wistfully and romantically look back to the colonial period. For the purposes of architecture, this meant a fervent revival of colonial architecture over the next several decades. As the name suggests, Colonial houses were first introduced by the colonists who settled in America around the 1600s. They constructed homes using the available materials, basing the designs on the architectural styles of the countries they had left.
What Are Colonial-Revival Style Homes?
When examining any type of Colonial-style architecture, it's crucial to understand how colonialism shaped design globally. To learn more about the roots of Colonial architecture around the world, read our in-depth look here. As with many other details of Colonial houses, chimneys are a reminder of the historical beginnings of this style. Many Colonial homes had double chimneys on either side to provide warmth throughout. When many Colonial houses were constructed, builders used readily available local materials.
Add craftsman traditional furniture
Dormer windows eventually became popular as a way to provide light and ventilation for the upper level, adding to the home's usable living space. Antique clocks not only add a touch of elegance to your colonial interior but also serve as functional and decorative pieces. Look for clocks with ornate details and rich finishes, such as brass or wood. Place them on mantels, sideboards, or shelves as a focal point in your space. When it comes to furniture styles in colonial interiors, there are several iconic designs that are synonymous with the colonial period. Incorporating these furniture styles into your space will help create an authentic colonial ambiance.
Back Side of Colonial Revival-Style House Before Renovation
These simple, clean-lined structures were built by early settlers who used local timber and post-and-beam construction. They were built around a central chimney that provided heating throughout the house. They are one of the oldest examples of Colonial-style architecture and remained a popular home style choice in the 17th and 18th centuries. Decorating in American Colonial style home decor should feel a little like looking into the past. This decorative preference is about making something that once was old new again.

Moreover, attention to detail and fine craftsmanship is evident in the ornate moldings, wainscoting, and built-in cabinetry that can be found in many Colonial interiors. The roots of Colonial interior design style trace back to the 17th and 18th centuries when European settlers arrived in America, bringing with them their architectural and design preferences. The Chippendale style is characterized by its ornate details, including ball-and-claw feet, intricate carvings, and Chinese-inspired motifs. Incorporate Chippendale chairs, chests, and mirrors into your colonial interior to add a touch of sophistication and grandeur.
The adjustment in symmetry will create visual interest in the space and add composition. Think about the other major elements in the room and contemplate which shape is best –- oval shape or rectangular style. The colonial aesthetic is adaptable, but the key is to focus on simplicity and neutralism. Adhere to the muted color palette, whether you are creating an accent wall, adding a patterned rug, or choosing a statue for a tabletop. To pick the perfect colors for your space, try to find your favorite neutral tones in the lightest shades possible.

Plant climbing roses along trellises, create geometric hedges, or add a fountain as a focal point. These elements embrace the natural beauty of colonial architecture and create a serene and inviting outdoor environment. To modernize the colonial aesthetic, incorporate bold accents of color throughout your space. Consider introducing vibrant hues like teal, mustard yellow, or even a rich burgundy through accessories, accent walls, or upholstery. These pops of color add a fresh and contemporary energy to your interior while maintaining the overall colonial charm.
The origins of modern colonial design trace back to the European colonial era, when settlers brought their home country styles to new lands. These designs, influenced by diverse cultures and local materials, evolved into distinctive colonial styles. American, Dutch, Spanish, and French colonial designs each have unique characteristics, but they all share an appreciation for craftsmanship and detail. Some Colonial-era builders saved time and resources by creating a dormered half-story on the upper level instead of an entire second floor. Also, Colonial houses were often built with steeply pitched roofs that enabled practical drainage and access to an attic space.
Tour a Summer House in Maine Designed by Matthew Carter - Veranda
Tour a Summer House in Maine Designed by Matthew Carter.
Posted: Thu, 15 Jun 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]
Because of this, the Colonial house style encompasses several different types of homes, including Georgian, Federalist, Dutch Colonial, Spanish Colonial, and more. Choose bedding in soft and luxurious fabrics, such as silk or satin, to add a sense of opulence. Opt for neutral or soft pastel colors that create a serene and calming atmosphere. Incorporate throw pillows or cushions with intricate embroidery or lace details to enhance the colonial aesthetic. Handcrafted objects were not uncommon in homes of early America, as most residents decorated their spaces with items made by hand rather than a machine.
While seemingly a dated feature, ceiling fans are far from being out of style. Most modern home buyers add them if they are not already in the home (via HomeLight). Colonial style homes were built by European settlers mainly from countries such as the UK, France, Holland and Spain. They can be found throughout the US but many are located in the coastal Eastern states. Cotton, wool, sisal, and jute fibers blend into rugs and other woven elements.
Again repeating this concept with the light fixtures, she used iron lanterns traditionally used for outdoors over the table. The client is a writer so they requested an "unfussy place" where they could focus without distractions. "The house still has some of the original lead pane hand-blown glass windows and the desk stares straight out onto the garden," says Denham.
Tile can be incorporated into any room in a Spanish Colonial Revival home, and is often used extensively throughout a house. Colorful Mexican tiles act as baseboards, stair risers, and fireplace surrounds. They can also decorate wall niches and window seats and create complex patterned floors as well as kitchen countertops and backsplashes. Mexican ceramic decorative tile used in Spanish Colonial Revival homes is traditionally 2” to 5” square and often hand painted, fired, and glazed.
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