Traditional Colonial Style Decorating
- Contemporary colonial decor is rooted in the early days of American history as the emerging country separated from its European ancestry. Colonial style, in its infancy, was a reflection of the rustic lifestyle of the American population during colonization and the post-revolutionary era. This aesthetic has come to be known as early American colonial design. A more formal approach to colonial decor emerged in the early 20th century, and is referred to as 18th century colonial. This latter style celebrates styles such as those derived from notable designers of the 18th century including Sheridan, Duncan Phyfe and Chippendale.
- Both types of colonial styles celebrate distinctly American attitudes regarding decorations in the home, but the 18th century colonial is also influenced by English design, as if to acknowledge that Americans regard the English aesthetics as a part of their heritage. Staffordshire figurines, paintings of hunting scenes and oriental rugs are common accessories to this style.
- Early American colonial design employs a rustic, country appeal. Natural, regional woods abound in both furniture and trim. The types of woods commonly used are knotty pine and pine, oak, maple and hickory. Upholstered furnishings are done in linen, cotton and wool, though blends and synthetics are used in contemporary times; they're inexpensive and durable. Hand-crafted goods such as hook rugs, twig wreaths and hand-thrown pottery are used for accessories.
The more formal style, 18th century colonial, uses furnishings with more ornate workmanship, such as turned legs and inlay tabletops. Woods such as oak and cherry are common to the style and are used for trim, flooring and furniture. The fabrics include damask, brocades and fine linens and patterns are apt to be floral or striped. - Traditional colonial style includes painted walls and trim, though 18th century colonial may employ wallpaper. The colors are subdued with muted shades of green and blue used as dominant colors. Pale shades of red and yellow may be seen in fabrics and window treatments as accent colors and used in accessories as well. Overhead lighting takes the form of chandeliers, whether rustic or formal. Iron or brass sconces are characteristic of the styles, as are table lamps with fabric shades and wood bases.
- The overall effect of the traditional colonial styles is first comfort and second Americana. Despite the 18th century colonial style's nod to the English, those pieces play a secondary role. American-style rocking chairs, Windsor chairs, wing chairs and upholstered benches promote the sense of country comfort, American country comfort, in the traditional colonial style.
