Common Arts And Crafts Style Decorating Elements

By Joanna Walsh


As a reaction against Victorian decor with its complexity and fussiness, designers wanted to return to a simpler, more organic aesthetic. They wanted to celebrate craftsmanship once more and bring nature into decor as much as possible. The arts and crafts style decorating movement was born in England and later spread to the United States. American designers then interpreted it in their own manner, influenced by their past. People still appreciate this way of decorating today, looking for pieces of furniture and accessories in this tradition for their homes.

One of the most important elements of this particular design style is wood. Wood is chosen for the beauty of its natural grains. This is often enhanced with a stain and hiding it with a coat of paint is just not done. Other elements taken from nature are rustic stone, slate and clay. Plant motifs are often used in fabrics too.

The furniture that is used is solid, heavy and comfortable with clean, square lines. Pieces are functional and what they lack in ornamentation, they make up for with the use of quality materials and meticulous attention to detail. Oak was the main type of wood used in the past but other types are used as well today, as long as the careful attention to detail is clearly seen and the lines are angular rather than curved.

The color palettes used are subtle and muted. These lighter colors and neutrals set off the warm tones of the wooden furniture beautifully. Colors like moss and leaf greens, warm brown, amber and mustard show up as accent colors in accessories, lighting and textiles. A comfy cushion in earth or jewel tones will contrast with a neutral color palette, adding interest and depth.

As this type of decor is not fussy, not too many accessories are used but lighting is important. Lamps are used to create a rich, organic glow. Metals such as copper and bronze are combined with stained glass in lighting fixtures. Tiffany lamps are iconic to the style but any lamps that offer clean lines, simple geometric forms and warm metal tones are suitable. Stained and leaded glass windows are also common in such houses, usually featuring linear or geometric patterns.

Flooring follows the natural aesthetic. Hardwood planks, stone and slate are all popular choices. The more one-of-a-kind patterns and variations in color, the better. Once again, the focus is on showcasing natural, organic beauty.

Clutter is avoided in these interiors and the few accessories used are carefully chosen for the most impact. Hammered or distressed metal accessories are popular as they compliment wood so well. Glazed tiles, pottery and simple stencils are also features of these interiors.

For those who enjoy a natural, simple aesthetic with the interest coming from finely crafted pieces, this style is very appealing. Simple and yet finely crafted furniture, textiles, accessories and lighting suited to this type of decor are sold at online stores today. Homeowners can buy pieces that they combine harmoniously to create a functional, comfortable home that has great beauty and an appealing artisan aesthetic.




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