Colonial Interior Design

Colonial interior design ideas can be sourced from American colonial style or British colonial style.

American colonial interior design became popular throughout North America during the early 18th century. The design style replicates many of the traditional European homes of that era and is heavily influenced by early American farmhouses mixed with grand homes of Old Europe to provide this sensational Americana decorating style.

There are two ways to go with this design concept as it can be both rustic interior design or sophisticated. Rustic is the 'everyday man's' home from that period and the alternative is a more luxurious look that was then only available to those who could afford it. Today, we can achieve both looks on a budget. Just choose and get going.

Influences of design and architecture were brought to America from the England when immigrants settled during that period and decorated their own homes. Their lifestyle was reflected in their design; simplified and practical.

The simplicity created light, spacious interiors with elegant clean lines. There are several key characteristics of colonial interior design that can be adapted to suit your home.

Woodwork: extensive handmade furniture and cabinets carved from pine, birch or maple represent the colonial concept in a way that the design itself was 'honest' and remained simplistic. In other words, not over complicated or over styled. Wide baseboards (or skirting boards) are distinctive and look great with this concept.

Handmade quilts: quilting is such a beautiful way to celebrate Americana decorating and family life. Quilts were used to decorate the walls, laid on top beds and placed over sofas. You can recreate this look by having a quilt made of your favorite fabrics, or add some interesting throws and cushions into your finished look. The images below show how amazing quilts can look and provide an authentic touch of colonial interior design in a bedroom space.

Uncluttered spaces: try to combine your objects and items with enough free space so that you can enjoy looking at the ornamentation and beautiful colors captured in you accessories. Otherwise your room(s) may become overcrowded with pattern and color. This is what we are looking to avoid so make sure you allow yourself plenty of good storage.

Walls: commonly whitewashed with crown moldings or dado rails. Occasionally timber paneling was fitted. Stick to muted paint colors for walls and ceilings were ivory white. Wealthy homes had borders and murals which had natural motifs of fruit and flowers much like those from the Arts and Crafts style. This can easily be replicated by simple stenciling. However walls are generally best kept simple so that wooden furniture, handmade cabinets, antiques and ornamentation take the limelight. However as just mentioned, remember not to over fill you room so that you create enough space to enjoy your new design.

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Floors: walnut, mahogany, and cherry are the main types of hardwood flooring, accessorized with colorful handwoven rugs. Those include oriental style rugs.

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Below is a fantastic example of how sophisticated colonial interior design can become. This dining room is nothing short of classical and magnificent. Take note of the walls which are painted white however, the wooden panels create a rich finish that you would expect to find in this design style.

Lighting: Cast iron floor lamps, candle holders, wall fittings and beautiful chandeliers similar to the one shown above are all used to create this timeless style. There is a huge variety to select from so have fun browsing for the perfect fittings.

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To visit the CONCEPT section click here: leave colonial interior design.