Different Styles Of Homes/How Accessories And Furnishings Affect Them Article

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Different Styles of Homes/How Accessories and Furnishings Affect Them

This article is about 10 different decorating styles of homes in the United States. It will help you decide which one you prefer and its influence on culture thus far.

Author: Janet Scarpitti

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Let's assume that we have established the importance of your home decor and furnishings....now we can discover some styles and your preferences. (Our assumption is based on the fact that you have read the other articles!) If you are living in the United States, according to American architecture and design standards, you probably learned from ten or so designated styles.

Those introduced were most likely; AMISH - MISSION or SHAKER, QUEEN ANN, COLONIAL, ENGLISH COTTAGE, FRENCH COUNTRY (EUROPEAN) , CONTEMPORARY (MODERN) or even the greatest mixture of all...ECLECTIC! Regardless of your particular preference, remember that you are them and they are you... your glory, security and relaxation...your "castle"!

The Amish had a great deal of influence with designing styles in the United States. Originating from severe and simple designs, the MISSION and SHAKER Amish workers worked with solid hardwood by adding color and distinction. This not only was evident in those styles, but became a way of life as well. Originally in the early 19th century, they excitedly reacted to the more ornate Victorian style becoming prevelant in Southern California, and so they further immigrated into the Midwestern states. In making their well-known "sturdy construction" a common factor in both styles, again their entire community adopted these standards in life.

COLONIAL is a style often confused with EARLY AMERICAN, which is far more severe and primitive. Both styles originated in America in the 18th century and boast graciousness and warmth in their funishings, accessories and homes. Ethan Allen is a fine example of these styles and designs. Those familiar with this namebrand recall their reputation of "pricey and quality". Their professional decorators can put together a beautiful display while staying within your budget. These are very common styles in the United States (but not in the western coastal states as much). The Southern states have alot of Colonial home styles...also, especially noteworthy, is mentioning Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia.

Although still quite basic in its design, QUEEN ANN adds a little more character to its buildings and furnishings. Extremely distinctive and unique, this style was born in England during the 18th century. It displays more grace and richness thus far. The furniture is very recognizable and a certain profile is immediately evident.

The ENGLISH COTTAGE style is more popularly known as SHABBY CHIC. Quite trendy in the United States, it is especially seen in the western coastal states. Actually the label of SHABBY CHIC originated in Califirnia.

(Isn't that a big surprise????) Its homes and furnishings are usually painted or decorated in a distinctive way and exudes a certain feeling of casualness. Common accessories are white painted mirrors, wall hangings, shelvings and hand painted free standing cabinetry.

(I guess I should mention that Janart's does sell every style and they are available !!! We have lots of accessories and furnishings. )

FRENCH COUNTRY takes advantage of the natural spectrum and is often mixed in with a EUROPEAN look in the United States. The Old World accented with paintings and antique finishes are quite often seen in the more academic ways and styles of the East. School buildings and campuses, homes and their interiors are often similar, if not, actual styles.

They become quite fetching when mixed with another style such as with a CONTEMPORARY flair but can easily stand alone. The FRENCH COUNTRY look of gardens and landscaping are often described in novels and is a glorious way to imagine the interior or exterior decor.

The Western frontier is usually the most casual in its approach to decorating (or lifestyle period). LODGE and SOUTHWESTERN styles are appreciated in all states, though more evident in the western-coastal and southwestern states. Rustic styles and rich, bold colors are seen in these accessories/furnishings, furniture, and buildings. Very creative when mixing other pieces or styles, they fashion alot with woods of ash, maple, oak, and pine. Known for spotlighting, these two styles appreciate the imperfections in woods and nature. RETRO has made its original appearance in California, and has become quite popular through the states. An everyday occurance now, it's architecture and furnishings are mostly from the 1950s (only at a much steeper price).

PENNSYLVANIA DUTCH was originally produced between the 17th through the 19th centuries. It is mostly known for the square angles and "gingerbread" style of decorating. It's not seen much today except in the Pennsylvania area of the United States. A lot of its original style has been well integrated but can still be found. COUNTRY decor/accessories and buildings are often mistakenly called "DUTCH". It suggests a very relaxed home with a casual appearance and homey touches. Most of the time, PENNSYLVANIA DUTCH brings to mind "fussiness" in decor and design while COUNTRY is more a natural, simple, and rural design. In the COUNTRY style, a very popular feature is the "country kitchen", often containing a sitting area a with a fireplace and lacking a formal dining room.

ECLECTIC has become the most popular "in" decorating style. The word is defined as a "mixture of" or a "combination using a variety of styles and decorating items". The construction/buildings have a mixture of doors, windows, columns, textures, hardware and styles, in general! Its popularity can be attributed to the interior and exterior use of deep, rich colors, bold and subdued tones...mixed and with all textures.....no longer used in just one or two styles but in all! For example, this year the rich textures of bamboo, rattan, and leather "pair up" with deep yellows, rich reds, soothing greens and earth tones! Dominating all homes of any style, the accessories often dictate the style rather than the colors and lines. Frills aside, natural wood grains never seem to go out of style and the crisp, tailored look of (many) homes today have been inspired by a masculine simplicity. What will inspire us next? We just don't have a clue , do we?

So, here we are with your present style and hopefully, it's the one that will benefit you most! Get ready world...your style is here to stay...and so are you!!!

About Author

Janet Scarpitti is a retired elementary teacher, a Realtor of 28 years, and has an online site/shop called "Janart's Home Decor and Tasteful Gifts For Him and Her". Please visit this at http://www.janartinc.myitseasy.com She lives in Ohio with Art, her husband of almost 40 years, 2 sons, Scott and Todd, and Jesse, her 16 year old dog.

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Different Styles of Homes/How Accessories and Furnishings Affect Them