To realize why antique beds are so perfect for certain design styles, you first need a run down on what it is that decides the general overall look and feel of that style.
With regards to Country French, it can best be defined as classic European elegance with homespun comforts.
We’re all acquainted with the beautiful Toile print fabrics that are it’s mainstay. But few people know it’s origin and what propelled it into what is one of todays most popular fabric choices. The reputation of these beautiful cotton prints brought about Louis XIV to impose a ban on them over anxiety they posed a risk to Frances silk and cloth industry in the 17th Century. This ban continued for 50 years until 1759 when the influence of a mistress of King Louis XV helped lift the ban. It was a stroke of genius, as France then grew to become one of the worlds main suppliers of decorative printed fabric’s.
When it comes to Country French furishings you need to get a really feel for family heirlooms that have been handed down from generation to generation and have received a good amount of use. That doesn’t mean they are damaged and can’t be used for sensible purposes. It simply means they have the ware and markings of furniture that was continually used by generation upon generation of households. Over years of use, paint has started to rub off and different layers may be uncovered, giving a warm used look. There is next to no formality when it comes to Country French furnishing’s. That formality was left to French Provincial furnishings, with it’s beautiful intricately carved pieces. Country French could be deemed as a more utilitarian, yet warm and beautiful style.
The use of iron beds in Country French decor is rather popular because of the normally distressed nature of a piece of furniture that has been continually painted over and over with multiple layers being uncovered. The attractiveness of iron beds in Country French design, is not only their beautiful French scrolled designs. But it is also their seemingly limitless adaptability with whatever color scheme you undertake. Contemplate using colors that are harmonious……..never colors of stark contrast. Whites and tonal variations of it, are the foundation of Country French. From there the color spectrum is wide, yet harmonious…..blues being a popular favorite. The “Shabby Chic” term applies here because the most desirable antique iron beds may have started with a monochromatic paint finish. But over years and years of use, chips and distressing of the original finish have now left them with a temperament that can only be attained through years of loving use. If you come upon a bed that has the type you like, but not the “finish”, do not despair. With a little work, you can give any bed that warm used look that will mix with your Country French decor. There are quite a few books on Faux’ Distressed painting that will tell you step by step what is needed to get the look you want.
Be sure that you keep in mind Country French design is all about light soft muted harmonious colors. This is true throughout your selection of not only furnishings and materials…..but also with regard to paint colors. Stark contrast is a no no.
Follow the path of informal with an emphasis on rustic. Natural materials like rough stained plaster walls,massive hewn beam ceilings and smooth river rock fireplaces, can be used for a warm country cottage or an classy old chateux. This same look will fit tastefully in to your own home.
I hope you’ve found this blog informative . I invite you to revisit my website
to answer any and all questions you might have about antique iron beds.
I also invite you to take a look at our company Face Book page for multiple photo albums on Custom Finishes, Canopy Conversions and a comprehensive “Before & After” King Conversions album.
