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The British Colonial style
Friday, May 4, 2007
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Elizabeth Howell-Jones |
This is a perfect example of the British Colonial style. Furniture was produced with a mixture of English influence interpreted by local island craftsmen who added their distinctive flourishes with caning, curves and carving. Fine furniture manufacturer Henredon produces this style today for their Ralph Lauren Collection that can be purchased exclusively through Woods Furniture & Design.
By Interior Designer
Elizabeth Howell-Jones
The Victorian era saw the British extend their empire around the world, colonizing far-flung exotic regions such as India, Africa and the West Indies.
Colonists brought the furniture designs of England but quickly adapted these to the tropics, which was hot and humid.
Local craftsmen used mahogany, a hardwood, to craft furniture because it was readily available and particularly suited to the climate.
They added their own distinctive flourishes with caning, curves and carving. Other available materials were also used such as rattan, leather and jute.
Some ideas were born of necessity such as shutters to keep out the hot mid-day sun and overhead fans to circulate the air. Shutter designed doors also allowed for ventilation through the house, as did Armoires with shutter doors to keep linen fresh.
The colonists wanted to escape the rigid formality of Victorian society, to make a new less structured life but without foregoing the comforts of home.
This attitude and the mixing of elements are what brought about the evolution of the British Colonial style.
Although the British Colonial look harkens back to another era, it is timeless and a good investment.
Once you have selected the furniture, consider using appropriate accessories such as large potted plants, palms, ferns and tropical flowers including orchids.
Choose botanical prints, maps, pictures with a nautical theme or old black and white photos of the early days here in the Cayman Islands.
Accessories could include sisal rugs, leather suitcases, exotic imitation animal skins and my favourite mosquito netting over a four-poster bed.
Keep the colours muted to accent the richness of the mahogany furniture.
Think adventure and discovery. It is like taking a trip around the world without ever leaving home.
It is the romance and excitement of an age of limitless possibilities. If you are a romantic adventurer, even if only in your dreams, then this style is for you.
Elizabeth Howell Jones has worked as an Interior Designer in Toronto Canada and here in Grand Cayman for the past 3 years. Her clients are international and local. She can be reached at Woods Furniture & Design (345)949-5933 or elizabeth@woods.com.ky
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