With the end of the Revolution and the birth of the new republic, Americans looked to ancient Rome for cultural as well as political inspiration. At the same time, newly professionalized American architects sought to express the power and influence of their patrons by creating dignified yet democratic homes. The result of this political and aesthetic cross-pollination was the Federal style, which soon became identified with the hopes, ideals, and character of the young nation.
Ironically, the guiding light of ancient Rome shone on the new republic by way of Old England. Federal period architects like Charles Bulfinch enlivened a somewhat poker-faced Georgian colonial template with classical detail straight out of stylebooks of the Adam brothers, the most renowned architects of the British eighteenth century. A typical Federal home had pragmatic Georgian bones (symmetrical brick facade, balanced rows of windows around a central door) adorned with graceful Adamesque flourishes. A semicircular fanlight over the front door, arched three-part Palladian windows, dentil moldings or a balustrade around the roof all served to soften square Georgian lines. The centrally placed front entryway was the focal point, with the door flanked by sidelights, pilasters, or slender columns and possibly topped by a small portico.
To create a convincing Federal setting, use a judicious mix of homespun American colonial furniture and more refined Adam-style pieces (Chippendale, Hepplewhite, Sheraton). Pewter and Silver, luxurious but understated textures -- cream-colored damask, polished wood floors -- suggest the optimism and increasing prosperity of the new nation. Colors should be light and delicate: powder blue, cream, yellow, soft pink and muted rose. Of course, the quintessential Federal detail is the American eagle, soaring above the mantelpiece. And while some might consider a plaster bust of George Washington to be a bit over the top, for the true neo-Federalist it will add just the right patriotic touch.
Using color at home or in the office - for paintings, furniture or any artistic challenge - takes a good eye, a little know how, and a creative imagination. Create custom color schemes and color effects in your home or office. Learn how to use the best base color, create a glaze, mixing colors, and more.
The charm of painted scrolls on ceiling beams needs no introduction. This decorative accent is a delightful addition to any room. And though beams are common elements in many interiors rarely do one see them used as a focal point for decorative applications. Whether you enjoy the old world charm of Italy, or the contemporary flair of a San Francisco loft space, these tech iques can be adapted to suit the most creative inspiration.
Finishing Venetian Plaster with natural polished marble effect
Lithos is the contemporary version of the famous ancient Stucco Veneziano. It is a beautiful and highly refined decorative finish for hotels, offices, shops, exhibition halls, living rooms, etc. Ideal for all types of interior surfaces such as cement renders, Gypsum plasters, prefabricated panels wood and its by-products, as long as sufficiently smooth. With the range of colours and the applicator’s capacity and inspiration, it is possible to attain a variety of designs and chromatic effects. The resulting coating, in addition to being highly attractive, is abrasion resistant and washable.
Spread rate: 35 to 45 sq. ft. per quart.
0.8 - 1.0 kg/m² (for a recommended dry film thickness of 1,0 mm)
Colonial Amercians drew inspriation from their European heritage. Curent design styles would filter across the ocean and become reinventedin early America. Proportion and scale took reign over ornementation, A neutral color palette of grey blue, greens and rose pinks is readily apparent.
Stucco Rustico is a Traditional interior and exterior textured plaster that epitomizes the rustic old world charm commonly associated with Tuscan environments. I love this treatment for its ease of application and the natural, organic glazed appearance that results when using mineral based plasters and glazes. Whether a rough application or a smooth finish, this treatment holds true to the test of time and, in fact, feels as if time itself stopped to wash the walls personally.
The Rustic Style color palette falls within a distinct range of color tones and is essential in creating a successful Rustic interior. By using the appropriate color tones you can create a variety of design styles ranging from Period and Historic, regional or thematic. Color helps define our experiences within an interior and exterior environment. It affects us on a physical, emotional, and spiritual level and can be calming and passive, expressive and vital.
Floral patterns used as accents in fabrics and furniture are common place details in the English Country home. These graceful and organic patterns complement the cozy interior of this style and work particularly well with lace window treatments, an heirloom tea service set and the natural and rustic charm of wooden ceiling beams and slightly irregularly textured walls.