Federal Mandate
Tracy Bulla -- Home Accents Today, 10/1/2006
As design trends have shifted back toward classic opulent styles, it should be no surprise that traditional American looks undergo a remarkable renaissance. Here, the elegant, sophisticated grace of the Federal period reappears with a surprisingly light touch. Look for a primary palette, mahogany and cherry finishes, and classic forms to create subdued drama. Elements of French and Oriental design offer a dash of intrigue, but the vote is all-American.
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Artisan-made, cherry wood chairs from Chelsea en France showcase a hint of whimsy in the backsplat with carvings inspired by Aesop's Fables, like the beloved Tortoise and the Hare tale ($895 to $1,295). eLink 542 |
| Fine-art giclee prints exclusive to W. King Ambler depict a group of Debonair Gentlemen, circa 1790, in this charming set of eight ($135 each). eLink 643 |  |
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Gloriously rich hues enhance the antique patina of Safavieh's medallion-patterned design. eLink 623 |
| Referencing an early American vibe, the Matcha settee from the Martha Stewart Signature Furniture Collection with Bernhardt features mahogany finish, cabriole leg with hoof foot, sweetheart back and lush velvet upholstery ($1,320). eLink 663 |  |
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Glazed in crackled celadon, Toyo's handled porcelain bowl reflects a resolutely classic, elegant form. eLink 644 |
| The hunt, a set of four assorted decorative plates from Andrea by Sadek, is recast in timeless blue and white toile ($16 each). eLink 506 |  |
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Currey & Company's gold leaf lamp balances the ornate swirls of acanthus with a streamlined shade and base ($440). eLink 541 |
| Antique pewter hardware accents the traditional chest of 28 drawers from Designers & Makers, fully wrapped in hand-colored leathers ($1,540). eLink 550 |  |
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Sarreid's Chinoiserie mirror revamps the looking glass in ancient Asian style with gold leaf on pine ($938). eLink 624 |
| The Margaux end table from David Francis highlights elegant, classical styling with beautifully grained wood. eLink 539 |  |
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A disarmingly arranged spray of fan coral and cymbidium orchids rests naturally in a glazed ceramic vase from Labs ($120). eLink 584 |
