SmartHomeOwners

When considering a European decor style for your home, first realize that there's not just one specific European decor.  European or "Old World" furnishings and home accessories are categorized into styles according to location as well as time period.  No matter which style you choose, this decor fashion will help you achieve a look of elegance and beauty in every room.

European Decor by Time Period

The time periods to consider are Medieval or Gothic, Renaissance and Classical.  Gothic decor was typically simple and rustic, with themes based on religious beliefs, popularity and chivalry.  Rooms had minimal furniture and/or artwork and usually featured vaulted ceilings with narrow windows.  To recapture the Gothic look and feel today, you can easily add mystical decor statues, fountains and figurines, Medieval style lamps, bookends, long window coverings, and simplistic furnishings. Be sure to add a splash of color here and there to off-set the "grave" Gothic atmosphere.  Besides.. you don't want your home to be too gloomy!

The Renaissance period is remembered for its famous artists and scholars.  New decor trends came about such as paneled walls, colorful wallpaper, enlarged windows, etc.  Exquisite paintings and furniture with fabric and cushioning brought about color and comfort in home decor during this period.  Spruce up your home with Renaissance style paintings, soft lighting and colorful, cushioned furnishings graced with European style pillows and framework.  Add elegant, light-colored window coverings that allow the sun's natural light to infiltrate the room and illuminate your wall paintings.

The Classical period was a time when people focused on architecture and detail.  They built homes with elaborate staircases, detailed walls and ceilings, and finely-carved mahogany and walnut furniture.  You can re-create the Classical look in an existing home by making just a few structural changes and by adding elaborate wood furniture.  Pay attention to details for staircases, walls, ceilings, windows and doors.  From the crown molding to door framing, you can create an elegant Classical look no matter what your budget.

European by Location

Consider which location you'd like to focus on when decorating, or mix it up and blend the styles to create a totally unique European decor.  The location-specific decorations to consider for European design are French and French Country, Tuscan, Italian, Victorian and English Country.  These vary by color, types of furnishings, window tapestries, lighting, fabrics and architecture.  Determine if you want baroque-style Victorian decor, elegant country or rustic, or the exquisite French look and feel.  Tuscan dwellings are rich with leather and wood, deep, vibrant colors and iron fixtures.  Marble, limestone and sandstone are often used for flooring and countertops as well as fireplaces, baths, pillars, window sills and fountains.

As you can see, going "European" opens the door wide for a variety of creative decor techniques.  The sky's the limit, and you can re-live themes from the "Old World" right in your own living room!