Introduction to Modernizing Your Colonial Style Home Interior: Understanding How to Update a Colonial Style Home Interior
The colonial style home interior was popular in the U.S. from the Colonial period (1700s) through to the 18th century. Over this period, styles changed and adapted to prevailing tastes, with multiple different versions of colonial-style homes in use across regions. This article explains how to modernize a classic colonial style home interior by understanding the key elements that make up this type of design.
When renovating a colonial-style home, it is important to maintain its fundamental character while bringing it up-to-date with modern touches throughout. To begin, start by taking stock of what you already have in place â what furniture pieces, architectural features and decorative items are present? Having a full inventory will help inform later decisions about which elements to retain and which should be swapped out or updated with new additions.
The visual style of colonial interiors can be categorized into two main types: early American and federal (or post-colonial). Early American characteristics such as wood paneling, wicker furniture and whaling prints are seen in New England homes, while Federal designs feature finer details like faux marble mantles, wallpapers and elaborate architectural carvings. By acknowledging the type of colonial aesthetic you are dealing with when updating your home’s look, you can more effectively select finishes that blend in perfectly without sacrificing modernity.
Lighting is an area where traditional meets contemporary quite naturally; from old wing chandeliers to fixtures inspired by industrial materials like metal cages or glass shades to help create spaces that feel simultaneously current and timeless. Furthermore, window treatments will set off warm tones throughout rooms when paired with complementary paint hues for walls â whites or greys accented with flashes of navy or forest green result in a chicly muted palette overall .
When searching for hardware and fixtures within your space try looking for oil rubbed bronze accents which bridge both eras subtly without breaking from tradition too severely; investing quirkier options like modern door handles or cabinet pulls add interesting contrast while sticking mainly to traditional forms. Expanded selection at larger retailers often includes slimline versions preferred by more minimalist aficionados., Steer towards pieces built using more enduring resources such as brass versus plastic varieties; being mindful not only looks smarter but also lasts longer than cheaper alternatives over time..
In conclusion remember mixing vintage fabrics mixed into arm chairs juxtaposed against pillows woven from tribal textiles elsewhere may seem perplexing at first but if concluded correctly creates an entirely fresh internal persona completely undebatable yet totally appropriate.. The challenge then becomes embracing these surprises whilst maintaining historical reference points boiling down rather intently upon concept before eagerly running out shopping!
Step-by-Step Guide for Modernizing a Colonial Style Home Interior
Modernizing a Colonial Style Home Interior can be a daunting task, but with a few simple steps, you can turn your home into something truly spectacular. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Step 1: Analyze Your Existing Space
The first step in modernizing any interior is to assess the current areas and create an understanding of what each room needs. This includes analyzing the layout, colour palette, furniture pieces and décor accents currently present in your home. Taking stock of the existing elements allows you to determine which items are working well within the space and which aspects need updating.
Step 2: Create a Mood Board
Once youâve taken stock of the existing pieces, itâs time to begin putting together your vision for the space. Doing this is easy thanks to platforms such as Pinterest or design websites dedicated to visual planning boards. Creating mood boards allows you to see in realtime how different colours, textures and furniture pieces would fit into your modernized colonial style interior design.
Step 3: Refresh Wall Paint
Once your mood board has been created and finalized (or adjusted if necessary!) itâs time to bring that vision into reality. An important aspect of modernizing colonial style dĂ©cor is refreshing wall paint. Opting for neutral walls with brighter colours and bolder stripes on feature walls may work perfectly against wood accents such as carpeted staircases or built-in radiator coverings.
Step 4: Focus on Furniture Placements
Halfway there! Nowâs where it starts becoming fun; focusing on furniture placements! Rearranging existing furniture pieces can instantly work wonders for any interior design scheme â just make sure each piece compliments one another before moving about however much you feel necessary for achieving modernisation perfection! Examples include incorporating new side tables or armchairs next to sofas or layering carpets one over another if space permits these size arrangements (keep within small details though!).
Step 5: Add Unique DĂ©cor Accents
Bringing some character back into life â add unique dĂ©cor accents akin maybe leaning towards natural materials like rattan woven baskets or vases containing plant/flower arrangements work too! Having subtle nods towards nature via earthy toned tones allows for spaces not only being aesthetically pleasing but also feeling âhomelyâ when visitors walk through doorways into those said rooms making everyone feel welcome and inspiring conversation starters between house guests alike 
And there we have it! A completed Step-by-step Guide for Modernising a Colonial Style Home Interior all while saving money in doing so through certain renovations versus full blown redecorating from scratch by introducing current aspects previously mentioned throughout the post whilst taking advantage of already present elements leaving only those aspects needing refreshing attention iresolving itself quickly both mutually beneficial economically & visually
Frequently Asked Questions About Modernizing a Colonial Style Home Interior
1. What is a âcolonial style home interiorâ?
A colonial style home interior is defined by traditional furniture and decor that was typical of the 18th-century American colonial period. This includes pieces such as four-poster beds, tapestry wall hangings, Windsor chairs, highboy dressers, hearths and fireplaces with simple trim detailing, and restrained color schemes involving muted shades like grey, green or brown. The purpose of this design is to create a cozy homey environment that celebrates Americaâs rich history.
2. How can I modernize my colonial style home interior?
Modernizing a colonial style home interior involves focusing on streamlined silhouettes, fresh colors, modern textures, and contemporary art and accessoriesâwhile still honoring the traditional elements of the space. Incorporating pieces such as woven baskets for stylish storage solutions or painting an accent wall in an unexpected hue can help give an updated look to your space. Fewer furnishings that emphasize simplicity over grandiosity and more modern lighting throughout can also enhance a room’s character while preserving its historic charm.
3. What kind of materials should be used to update my colonial décor?
When updating your colonial dĂ©cor there are many options in terms of both material types as well as colors and patterns available on the market today. Natural materials such as leather or cotton work well when considering traditional styles or hardwoods like oak provide warmth through texture yet lend themselves to easier cleaning than textiles may require. For updated shades adding pieces with clean lines that provide bold contrast against existing upholstery may reveal subtle pops of color while light greys provide more neutralized tones if you’re looking for greater harmony within a room’s design scheme. Finally bright pops of pattern accompanied by open shelving assistance take cues from modernity throughout the space overtime creating an inviting atmosphere all can enjoy alike!
Top 5 Facts About Updating a Colonial Style Home Interior
1. Bring in Natural Light: Many colonial style homes were built during a time before the availability of large windows and abundant natural lighting. To preserve the colonial charm, but still capture natural sunlight, look for ways to add skylights or space for big bright bay windows if possible. Consider subtler options, such as replacing previously small windows with larger ones, or heavy window treatments with light airy fabrics. Adding fresh bright colors on walls also reflects more light for a warm inviting glow.
2. Reuse Original Details: Colonial architecture is known for features like chair rails and ornate woodwork that adds character to any home. Until recently many historic pieces had fallen out of design style but now they are making a comeback! You can use older original architectural details or shop around vintage or antique stores to find furniture and accents that bring an original touch to your home without taking away from the original atmosphere it holds.
3. Blend In Textures & Patterns: A classic Americana color palette includes reds, greens, blues and yellows – which compliment a historic feel perfectly! Be sure to introduce textures into the mix; nubby chenilles and denim will keep it modern but fun too! If youâre willing to go bolder try finding wallpapers from their original design period which will brilliantly accentuate the classic feel of your home while feeling up-to-date with current trends in color schemes and patterns as well.
4. Spruce Up Soft Furnishings: Finishing touches make all the difference when decorating a colonial interior; throw pillows in seasonal colors are always appropriate especially when complemented by cozy throws draped over sofa arms or chairs – these final touches blend together colors nicely while allowing you to create an inviting atmosphere that feels both timelessly classic yet modern at the same time.
5. Play With Lighting Ideas: Nothing pulls together an interior quite like strategic lighting choices do! Search for rustic lamps, chandeliers and pendant lights that have been inspired by colonial styling are ideal here â introducing dark finishes (such as bronze), bell shaped shades plus intricate detailing completes this look best! Of course balanced task lighting is important too so don’t be afraid add desk lamps between bookshelves (or simply place them on side tables) for mood lighting but also practical uses when needed as well!
Resources and Tips for Successfully Transforming A Colonial Style Home Interior
It can be challenging to transform a colonial-style home interior into something that feels modern and fresh. However, if youâre willing to put in the work and research necessary for a successful transformation, the results are sure to be worth it! Here are some resources and tips that will help make your project a success:
1. Find Inspiration â When embarking on any design project, itâs always beneficial to seek out sources of inspiration and get an idea of where you want your space to end up looking. Check out websites like Houzz or Pinterest for modern or contemporary examples of colonial style interiors so you can develop an understanding of how to keep the look traditional yet still introduce elements from other aesthetics. You can also read interior design books or magazines, visit local showrooms, or consult with a professional designer who specializes in this type of renovation project.
2. Understand What Makes Colonial Design â To be successful at transforming your colonial style home interior, start by determining what exactly makes up this particular aesthetic. A popular example is a classic New England interior featuring patterned fabrics, wood furniture with intricate carvings and brass hardware, dark wood floors and trim work, painted panelling and more. Establishing the fundamentals of this design style can help ensure that while updating its overall look, you still retain its essence intact (or even enhance it).
3. Analyze Your Existing Structure â Whether designing from scratch or renovating an existing space like this one requires knowledge of construction plans as underlying structure must remain largely unchanged in order for resale value to not plummet down too much should owners desire selling later on down the road. Start by assessing walls for any water damage or signs of decay; check windowsills for signs termite infestation; inspect framing beams for sufficient strength; analyse roof rafters / joists placement & orientation; inspect insulation for proper insulation density & R-value etc., then proceed with recommendations favouring neutral palettes enhanced by accents – paint colour swatches on posterboards mock up visuals aiding deciding upon final looks desired within constraints imposed by previous assessments assessment commenced reference within initial stage preceding proceeding further towards drawing conclusions & executing phase beginning actually modifying/adding features enhancing overall feel/look adhering principles established under foundational phase limited extent into either renovating components such as flooring/ceilings along w/walls masonry installations egress structures et cetera depending budgeted spending intended investing into labour involved performing skilled activity introducing these changes overall complexity performed work amply compensate time lost evolving previous structure hitherto done according plans obtained hence easier following basic layout orientations premeditated earlier granting access readily implementable solutions now imperative carry on accordingly safekeeping integrity dealt hereupon manner each step materials utilized instead merely decorative purposes structural capacities stand test lastly counting square feet environmental factors functioning zone accomplishing goal identified providing satisfaction ultimately seeking fortune our endeavours thus benefit thoughts implemented previously discussed inspiring others looking similar outcomes doing independent ventures enjoying fruits laboriously laboured unto successes
Final Thoughts on Modernizing Your Colonial Style Home Interior
Modernizing your Colonial Style home interior can be an exciting journey filled with opportunity and challenge. Finding the right balance between comfort, classic style, and a modern aesthetic is no easy task. However, it can be a wonderfully rewarding experience to breathe new life into an older home while preserving its beloved character and charm.
Start by assessing what you have – the existing furniture and decor, any antique heirlooms or decorative pieces that may need to stay, and what items might need to be replaced. See how each of those pieces fits into the larger overall scheme of the space you are looking to modernize. Then consider the materials needed for modernizing such as textiles, colors, wallcoverings, window treatments etc that can create a cohesive look without taking away from the architecture of the space being redone.
Think about how light plays in the space as well since this has a large influence on creating that desired ‘modern’ effect in your remodel or makeover. Consider natural light sources such as windows and skylights as these will fill any room with illumination needed for highlighting certain design elements throughout your design plan. Lastly don’t forget about adding art work and accessories like plants, rugs and pillows which all help complete a colonial style home with modern appeal!
