As we mentioned in a recent post, historic homes are a pleasure and a challenge to decorate for modern life. Here on the East Coast, we are lucky enough to have many different architectural styles preserved from America’s early days, from Federal and Gothic Revival to Greek Revival and Italianate, just to name a few.
Today, let’s take a look at a classic style that characterizes many of the most beautiful and stately historic homes- Georgian architecture.
via Wikipedia
What is Georgian style?
Georgian architecture is named after the British monarchs who ruled from 1720 to 1840- George I of Great Britain, George II of Great Britain, George III of the United Kingdom, and George IV of the United Kingdom. The architectural style is marked by symmetrical, square or rectangular facades with hipped roofs. There are often matching chimneys on either end.
What does historic Georgian interior design look like?
Georgian interior design for historic homes is a challenge you should tackle with the help of an interior designer. The style is characterized by a few key elements, including:
- Symmetry
- Classical design elements (think columns, dentil moulding, egg and dart, acanthus leaf motifs, etc.)
- Large entablatures over doors
- Picture frame paneling
- Ornate wallcoverings
- Muted color schemes (taupe, tan, cream, pale blue or green, gray), though more intense hues were sometimes used to add drama, like gold, pink, turquoise, oxblood, and indigo.
- Millwork stained in rich wood tones or painted neutral colors like white, pale gray, chocolate, or olive
via House to Home
If you are lucky enough to own a historic Georgian home, let the architecture shine. These pale grays provide contrast to show off the architectural millwork, while creating a lighter, more contemporary ambiance.
via House to Home
Gilded mirrors, classical furnishings, and the use of loose symmetry in this room reference the home’s Georgian architecture, yet the variety in the furnishings and the pale color palette give the space a more casual feel appropriate to a contemporary home. The glamorous contemporary light fixtures are a great choice, maintaining a level of formality while injecting some modern style.
To incorporate Georgian interior design into your home decor, contact MJN & Associates Interiors today. With our comprehensive selection of interior design services ranging from color consultation to space planning to custom furniture, rug, and bedding design, we can help you bridge the gap between your home’s historic character and a livable, comfortable style that suits your contemporary life.
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