Historical Background To Colonialism
A significant number of colonizers were introduced to various architectural styles as a result of the British Empire that extended into North America, along with regions in Africa, India, and Asia, as well as the South Pacific. This architecture took international contributions here and there and this is how the style that we now refer to as British Colonial came about. The style of the British Colonisers seems to be the main interior design trend in 2022.
Characteristics Of British Colonial Architecture
British colonial architecture was characterized by immense front or wrap-around porches, window shutters and thin wooden boards that were poorly glued together frames to name a few! The Americans admired splendid artefacts on the walls and in tables, lavishly upholstered, ornately decorated sofas and chairs, and bevelled walls and edges everywhere, even in cabinets.
The British colonial style distinctly and efficiently was able to adapt its luxury dark dresses consistent with a neutral setting while responding to the local conditions and motifs of the exotic colonies where British furniture was employed in a number of cases. Such interiors contained friendly texture, well made wooden furniture, and light and open space and this combination created a pleasant degree of smartness with some sem-formal elegance.
British Colonial Touches to Next Level Interior
The British colonial style of decorating your home seems to have taken the interior designing industry by the storm, here are some 7 tips that may help you decorate your home in that particular style:
1. Decorative Rings In British Colonial Influence
British Colonial influence high ceilings tend to be the very move in today’s world. A primary reason why colonies in India had warm air and cooling systems however they do not AC because the A begins to cool at the bottom while the warm rises to the top. The Panelling that was eventually in these houses was contributed to the Mediterranean and French aristocratic architecture that was seen quite largely in the colonies. Wood moldings that were painted or used plaster in form of ornate designs were widely seen with colors that were soft and subtle in Greece.
2. Plain But Attractive Walls
The walls in British colonies were either white washed or would use pastel colors to suggest a more calm interior. These same colors go further and actually help reflect heat so the space seems to be bright and cool rather than uncomfortable to be in. Other than the common Mediterranean and French colored walls getting neutral and light pastel colors was also a common preference as the major audience of these walls were people living in humid climates. The main colors of interest being pale pinks and peaches or green yellows taupes and browns.
3. Shutter Windows or Doors
Shutter windows or doors are another common architectural feature present in the British colonial mansion style as well. Having wide shutter windows enhances natural lighting as well as allows for effective cross airflow. Shutters also do not only look appealing, they assist in blocking winds, protecting from harsh storms and combating the tropical climates. These were sculpted from native trees that could also be varnished or left untreated.
4. Wood Mouldings and Plasters
Plaster and painted wood moodings are widely used in prefabricated colonial houses. More Wall elements comprising of fancy dado rails and panelling decorative picture rails, cornices and crown molding are common in the contemporary sense. Mouldings are mostly off-white in color. For a more realistic colonial home, adorn your walls with such intricate and beautiful details. These decorative arcs are baffling in their effective form.
5. Antiques and Artefacts
Colonial houses are filled with a plethora of exquisite artefacts. The more elegant ones had beautified and hand shaped round and curved legs while the simpler ones had wide rectangular plank boards. In Victorian era antique colonial homes, there is an abundance of wood and all furniture pieces are well crafted. Refrain from excess furniture as the trend runs in opposition to a complex riddled look.
6. Furnishings
If you take a closer look at the recent style trends, you will see a comeback of the firm and strong styles of the Victorian era. Furnishings reflect British formality such as dark woods and twisted elements. It has become a necessity for any British colonial décor lover’s home to have a four poster bed. These beds include curtains in cotton, linen, or silk materials which are beautifully adorned with floral and plant patterns, ikats, paisleys, batiks and other which give an everlasting touch of colonial heirloom.
7. Plants Are the Main Attraction
It is safe to say that the love for the native plants among the colonizers must have sparked a trend that has never faded amongst modern interior designs. Such an amazing charm of the tropics manages to reach out these stunning homes in form of pots, ferns and palm trees. The green color of the potted plants brings a different dimension to the interiors as well. It also does provide a stark contrast to white wall paint as well as dark wood fittings in furniture and floors. A cane chair may be a some what cheap furniture but it can assist in bringing in that British colonial feel into your home.
A Guide to Decorating Your Home Based on Colonialism
People in the past, especially during the colonial days, took great care of their homes and furnishings. If you wish to make your home look like it belongs to the colonial era, follow these guidelines:
- Teak furniture was the norm. Every home was filled with rattan and teak-style furniture, mix it up a bit and go for light rattan or neutral warm brown tones. Similarly, day beds are crucial and should be found in the corners of each home.
- The use of indoor plants should not be ignored. It is always better to add some indoor plants, adding dark green shades adds a sense of beauty when paired along brown leather and rattan. For those who don’t have the time to take care of live plants, silk plants make a good alternative.
- Every wall can do with a little ‘pop’. Adding dark timber panelling, white curtains, and brown shutters adds class to the house and also provides a distinct separation from the walls.
- Every room should have its charm. If you wish to use couches or armchairs, try going for large size ones, they do add a sense of comfort and enhance the appearance as well.
- Cushions are the finishing touch. The more cushions you add on a sofa or armchair, the more lively your living room becomes especially when funky patterns are involved, aim for various unique looking pillows to add even more character.
- Let’s think of flowers. You will probably want to have some floral stockings inside the house. It does not have to be living; the idea is that you add some sort of decoration to any spot.
- Shades and decorations with designs. To add slight tint to any space, colored lights or décor should be used. It also would give rise to some interesting talking points within the house.
- When it comes to cabinetry and countertops in the kitchen and bathroom sinks, go for Monochromatic! Use the colored cupboards in the above color groups to add more pizzazz.
Conclusion
Are you alternate Colonial design fan? Or are you intending on changing the style for your interior decorators? What other things do you literally believe may contribute to a property’s British colonial feel? We are happy that we managed to help you if you feel you are ready! Tell us in the comments below.
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