The Return To Early American Log Homes
Early American log cabins are neat and functional.
The way Americans have traditionally decorated their log home is a reflection of who we are as a people.
During the colonial period, the early settlers were limited in their furnishings to what they could make, or what they could carry from overseas. This gave our country an early start with a style that was simple, functional, and effective. From such humble beginnings developed a style that was inherently down to earth, and even later on when European goods became more readily available, many homes still reflected this humble spirit.
Infuences
Largely isolated from the rest of the world, Americans were free to create their own design trends. However, the isolation was not total, and people still brought ideas and styles from their countries of origin, and applied them to their homes in America. The result was a mix of new trends with a variety of older styles to create a blend that could only be called American.
The Gothic movement was especially influential in American design. One of the dominant European styles, its high vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows blended with humbler American traditions such as whitewashed siding to create a more dramatic America trend.
Since the Early American settlers were largely English, they were also heavily influenced by Tudor decorating styles. These lush and intricate designs added bright colors and posh patterns to American furnishings.
Federal style decorating, and architecture, is influenced heavily by classic Greek and roman styles. This includes straight lines, clean and simple spaces, and the use of classic materials such as polished marble.
American country is a younger style.It has a very light tone, that is cheerful, and simple in a crafty way.
An Early American log cabin features mix and matched furnishings, with both newer contemporary styles blending in with traditional, hand me down style accessories. Its main philosophy is to be casual, relaxed, and friendly.
Americans are a unique people, and their decorating style reflects this. Mixing and matching various European traditions, the relative isolation of the country has allowed the creation of a completely new style. While this trend does have old world influences, its inherent spirit is entirely one of a kind.
Western Theme
Southwestern Theme
Arts/Crafts Mission Theme
Log Cabin Interior
Log Home Interior
Log Home Decorating
Cabin Decor
Early American To Home Page
|