We speakers of English borrowed the word “armoire” from the French, who got it from Latin, armârium, chest, from arma, tools. This large wooden chest, almost always equipped with two doors, was originally used to store arms and armor. The word, which sometimes denoted a cupboard set into the paneling of a room, was probably […]

Swedish Gustavian painted furniture is marked by clean lines and a cool color palette and refers to the period from 1772-1800. Eighteenth century Swedish craftsmen cleverly imitated the more costly materials used in France and Italy by substituting native pine for mahogany and implemented faux painted marble surfaces and faux grain […]

When you’re deciding on interior design in the English country style, the first decision should be which type of English country home you’re looking for. An English manor house, for example, will have a different look from a country cottage, although both will have certain style elements in common:
Color Scheme - English country style requires […]

French Country Style
When you think of Provence and the French countryside, you’re sure to see lavender fields and bright sunshine. While there are many elements that contribute to the French Country style of decorating, the resulting look is always rustic, old-world, and welcoming. The look fits well into both country houses and elegant, old chateaux. […]

Swedish style interiors are becoming more and more popular. It’s a look that combines refined elegance with a casual aged appearance that seems to have universal appeal.
While artist Carl Larsson (1853-1919) is generally credited with popularizing the style, the Swedish look is also heavily influenced by the light and weather of Scandinavia.
Long dreary winters […]