Arts and Crafts Style Furniture: Beautiful Simplicity
Arts and Crafts style furniture dates back to the early 1900s, when the artistic movement of the same name was taking place. This period of time arrived right after the Victorian days and was a welcome transition from the intricate, frivolous designs of the day to a more clean, efficient style. The furniture made during this time was perhaps the most famous offering of this movement and is still in great demand to this day. You will commonly hear Arts and Crafts style called Mission style, although no one really knows why.
Some experts will tell you that the name Mission style comes from the fact that the furniture performed a specific function or mission. Other experts will tell you that the style was inspired by the design of actual missions in California. The man who many deem the father of this movement, Gustav Stickley, called the furniture and homes Craftsman style. You may sometimes hear the term Craftsman used to describe this style today although Mission is the most widely recognized and used word to describe the Arts and Crafts style.
Wood was, and is, very important to this style of furniture. Rich, dark hardwoods like oak and cherry are the preferred types. The main characteristic of this style is its simplicity. Pieces featured geometric shapes, straight lines and little to no decorative ornamentation. Focus was on function and quality. The beauty of this furniture is found in its strength and the gleaming tones of its polished wood. Classic might be the best word used to describe this furniture style. It looks just as good and is just as popular in homes today as it was a century ago.
Arts and Crafts style furniture is perfect for any home. It is designed to be durable and long-lasting. The beautiful, gleaming woods used to craft the furniture looks incredible in any home and goes with any color scheme. It is easy to work these simple pieces into any decor style. Many people incorporate a bit of Victorian style around their Mission furniture to add romantic flair. Floral patterned wallpaper, colorful area rugs and lush bouquets of flowers placed in crystal vases around the room add some sophistication and charm to this simple style. Or, go for a more Southwestern look with textured walls and warm colors like terra cotta and burnt umber. No matter what you choose, it is likely to look fantastic set against this type of furniture!
