Neoclassical Furniture

Neo-classicism, which is sometimes called Louis XVI, lasted from 1750 through 1800. Numerous designers of this period looked to classical art for inspiration; Louis XVI was the right choice for its variety.

The Neo-Classical style is an eclectic revival of Georgian, Adam, early Classical Revival, and Greek revival architectural styles.This style has been used as a foundation for interpretation for many decades to become one of the most influential of all design styles. Return to Home Furniture Page

The style is based heavily on the Greek, rather than Roman, architectural orders. Some of the well known landmark buildings, usually called heritage buildings, are the products of this design style order. Early Greek and Roman palladium was the source of inspiration for creating an order of architecture which sported columns and pillars with grand entrance. Neo-Classic architecture and interiors boast a distinctive set of attributes, quite different from any other style:

• Windows and door ways are commonly spanned by lintels than by arches.

• Another noticeable feature is a full ;height entry porch on the main facade supported by classical columns in the Corinthian format.

• The arrangement of Palladian windows is accurately symmetrical and in line with a central door.

• Other features of the style will include huge proportions of the structure, large sash windows, pilasters, attic stories or parapets, and simple rooflines.

• Design elements also include columns on all side, capitals, pediments and friezes.

• Decor elements also include defined lines and proportions, in to stone or marble or iron work with motifs, along with carved statue details in honoring Roman Gods and Goddesses.

• Accented slenderness was emphasized in furniture.

• Interior colors are light in tone and usually pale shades of white and pink adorning the walls and wood.

• Ornaments are delicate and very low in relief; usually embossed or heavily painted.

• Furniture sport slender fluted legs rounded moldings; carved with rosette, leaf and flower motifs. Furniture will be painted usually with white and touched with gilt.

• Varied fabrics like plain, checks and patterned with floral designs are used with hangings and upholstery.

• Chairs are in radical designs, backs taking rectangular or shield shapes, with slender and absolute straight lines.

• Ceiling are covered with modular relief elements, cornices and medallions; also called Cameo Panels, they are usually stenciled patterns and crafted in plaster.

• Gently curving staircase in monstrous proportions; steps inlaid with polished marbles or shining bricks.

Neo-classic homes are personified for stately appearance and a lavish living. Some of the decorative ideas that will be used are:

• Furniture with gentle lines made of a quality wood; polished with expertise, to add to the intrinsic glow. They are simple, light and graceful; can be Chippendale or Adam.

• Shining floor made of highly polished marble or stone or light pine or granite with theme motif inlaid to convey the style.

• Flowing, lengthy curtains to match the huge windows; multi-patterned with various colors.

• Stately dining rooms with a large dining table; fluted legs to add to the charm and matched by rows of chairs with rectangular or shielded shapes.

• Interior colors are pale and soothing: cream, stone, gray and pale blue. One can also use stronger color, sparingly: black and terra cotta for a Greek feel, or deep red and gold for an imperial, Roman look.

• Wallpaper in geometric, floral or Classical designs is also appropriate. Decor is full of classical details; columns flank the fireplace, geometric marble or inlaid wood graces the entryway floor, accented use of murals or wallpapers adorn the walls of the dining room to create a dramatic feeling, crown molding is absolutely important and usually feature swags or dentil patterns.

• Different types of columns, Doric or Ionic are most common in this style.

• Antique accessories from late 18th century; silver tea ware, china, candlesticks, screens, urns and statuary.

Neo-Classical style decoration invokes the memories of bygone Roman or Greek living; bright living rooms making way for a great day and magnificent dining rooms radiating fresh energy to soothe a weary mind. Creating a neo-classical ambience is the best way for a lavish living.