American classics reflect the best trends and traditions of history. This interior style combines elegance and functionality, simplicity and comfort. The main features of the American classic style are considered to be a single living space, an open plan, massive furniture, and neutral colors. ReRooms will tell you how to properly decorate an American classic interior so that you can easily transform your home into a luxurious apartment in the spirit of Hollywood films.
Window decoration
Curtains are almost never used for such a kitchen. Roller Roman blinds and various types of blinds are popular. It is practical, convenient and functional. When choosing a suitable option, you should pay attention to the color and texture: models with patterns and glosses will not fit into the interior.
Designers advise choosing vertical wooden or bamboo blinds. In private country houses, shutters look very organic.
American cuisine: characteristic features of arrangement
- centralized open plan;
- big Island;
- placing the sink by the window;
- wooden furniture and decoration;
- high-quality massive countertops;
- facades with panels;
- abundance of storage space;
- functional zoning;
- spacious dining area;
- neutral range of colors and shades;
- small mosaic or “hog” tiles in the apron;
- a lot of textiles;
- the latest household appliances;
- functional lighting of areas, classic lamps, sconces;
- breakfast table;
- stone or ceramic sinks.
What ingredients make up the American classic?
Initially, this is a classic European (in particular English) style, brought here by the first colonists. Life was hard for the settlers; they had to overcome many difficulties and obstacles. There is no time for luxury in such conditions. As a result, the style familiar to Europeans was significantly simplified.
In the first half of the 20th century, the Art Deco style, which triumphantly swept across the world, had a significant influence on American design. Fashion was dictated by Hollywood cinema, which demonstrated the glamorous luxury characteristic of Art Deco. As a result, many elements of this style have become an integral part of American classics.
In the second half of the century, the longing for the countryside and nature became more urgent. Styles such as country and rustic became fashionable. A small number of rural motifs have penetrated into traditional American style, mixed with classical elements.
In recent decades, new modern technology has organically fit in here. This is how the American classic we know today developed. It represents a fusion of styles such as European classical, colonial, art deco and country .
American classics are a desire for visual luxury. The materials and items themselves can be quite cheap. The main thing is that they look expensive.
Choice of colors
Neutral light shades that can be easily combined with each other help create a homely, calm and warm atmosphere. The ceilings, as well as the walls, are decorated in warm, light colors. Floor finishing requires the use of wood or materials that imitate natural wood.
The palette includes the following shades:
- light beige;
- lactic;
- cream;
- shades of gray;
- shades of brown;
- blue;
- light green;
- olive;
- opal;
- khaki.
Too sharp, contrasting combinations are not welcome. However, light shades are often combined with dark ones. Bright accents are created with the help of furniture; designers often strive to create an environment reminiscent of American cafes.
Full set of household appliances
The arsenal of an American kitchen must have everything necessary for all occasions: from a refrigerator and stove to a juicer and the most modern vegetable cutter. Even if some gadgets that are not so significant in everyday life will have to be used only once.
The storage room also serves as a garage for small equipment.
Among the largest kitchen appliances:
- fridge. As a rule, two-door, roomy. Having a separate large freezer is welcome;
- stove and oven;
- hood. This item should definitely attract attention with its dimensions. With an island layout, it is perfectly acceptable to install it directly above the countertop with the cooktop in the middle of the room.
This can be done in an apartment using recirculation hoods that are not connected to the air duct.
All equipment should be highly functional, technologically advanced and the most modern, not necessarily built-in, but certainly harmoniously integrated into the overall environment. After all, comfort while cooking and saving time are the main values of American housewives.
Creating comfort: textiles, decor
American interiors prefer dense natural materials as textile additions. Minor admixtures of artificial raw materials are possible to improve the overall characteristics of the fabric. Textile decor of a simple cut without unnecessary additions. Curtains are classic straight without lambrequins. The bedspreads are one-piece with no ruffles or complex elements. Decorative pillows - simple without appliqués.
As curtains, the American style allows for Roman options. Blinds have become widespread in modern interiors. To implement the loft direction, it is possible to completely avoid textiles on the windows or use materials with unobtrusive geometric graphics. Creating a country style allows for the presence of small floral patterns and light ruffles.
White room in American style
Bright room in American style
Classic American style does not accept an abundance of decorative elements. Paintings and photographs hidden by frames can add completeness to the interior. A large floor vase and a fresh flower arrangement are good options for an American living room. Particular attention is paid here to items of pride: awards, cups, collections. These things emphasize reverence for family values, a reverent attitude towards achievements, universal recognition, and nurture self-esteem.
When choosing decor, true Americans are often guided by their own taste, and by the inconsistency of the element with the interior. Often the decoration, especially the living room, turns out to be motley and tasteless. Only over time, with the advent of an awareness of convenience and ease, do you realize how pleasant it is to be in this environment.
American style room interior
Beautiful room in American style
Stunning American style design
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Lighting
There are no special lighting requirements; usually, standard design rules are used. Spotlights are installed along the perimeter, which also allow you to visually zone the space. If floor lamps, table lamps, sconces, chandeliers are used, they must be styled to match this style. For example, bronze, gilding, chrome, forging, and aging effect are used for finishing. The light should be soft, natural and comfortable.
This direction involves using the maximum amount of natural light. Therefore, great emphasis is placed on windows: even if drapes and curtains are used, they should not interfere with the proper lighting of the room. A panoramic window opening (on the entire wall) is welcome in living rooms. Mirrors and glossy surfaces will help to visually play with the flow of light.
We divide the territory
If Americans have a tendency to unite everything in one room as much as possible, then why can't they create chaos?
It's all about the correct division into zones - despite the absence of walls, they do not mix thanks to the proper arrangement of furniture, the use of color transitions and decor.
For example, a bar counter. We talk about it in more detail in the corresponding paragraph of our review, but it also copes with this function perfectly, helping to separate the kitchen from the living-dining room.
For the same purpose, a dining table, flowerpots or various structural elements can be used.
Interior features
Americans value a combination of the atmosphere of an old house and modern life, so a certain eclecticism is characteristic of many American cuisines; the design of which is created on a grand scale.
In the style of an English pub Source onekindesign.com
Along with modern domed hoods and giant refrigerators, the space is filled with details with history. The interior is decorated with antique ceiling beams, copper dishes, and original chairs.
American kitchen in an old room Source archidea.com.ua
Now about the color
This is where it’s difficult to single out a clear set of shades: it all depends on what you want to get as a result.
Do you like interiors from good classic Christmas movies? Then brown, beige, greenish tones are more suitable for you - those that are considered natural. Avoid flashy colors, try to make the kitchen elegant and discreet.
There is an opinion that Americans most often make white furniture fronts - this is not so. The shade can be any, even coffee - it is important that it is natural.
It's another matter if you are planning an unusual interior in the style of an American cafe. This is where they will come in handy - bright rich colors are just what you need.
But there are also nuances here: the main thing is not to overdo it. One main tone should be emphasized by a restrained background. Otherwise, the kitchen will turn out to be too colorful. This is no longer American design, but kitsch - why do you need this?
History of the style
“American style” dates back to the 18th century. British classics were adapted and complemented with colonial features, with an emphasis on dark, wooden suites and massive furniture. Over time, the influence of French philosophy and neoclassicism complemented the concept with rich decoration and strict classics. It is in this “federal” style that the White House building in the United States is made.
In the 19th century, the industrial revolution made its own adjustments, pushing the rationalism of the founding fathers into the background. Eccentric, bright elements appeared, inspired by the Romantic, Gothic and Baroque styles. The style acquired a new turn after the publication of Edith Wharton’s book, which became a real guide to the world of good taste in the field of interiors of that time. In the 20th century, her idea was supported by “the first professional decorator in the United States,” Elsie de Wolf. She opposed decorative excess and brought grace, comfort and sophisticated luxury to the style.
In the 20th century, American classics received two directions: conservative country became an excellent solution for spacious American homes, and a dynamic mixture of baroque and modernism was perfect for clubs, restaurants, and metropolitan apartments. The know-how of designer Dorothy Draper, who designed the White House premises, also took root. They have remained in the 21st century: vertical stripes, bright accents and rich fabrics remain in American interior fashion to this day.
Historical formation
The origin of the trend is associated with the beginning of the development of the continent by white colonialists. European settlers rudely interfered with the natural course of history. A new way of life with an inextricable interweaving of cultures ensured the centuries-long development of a mentality typical of the inhabitants of this country.
The American style, which has absorbed colonial history, is based on the English classics, but, unlike its prim progenitor, it is perfectly adapted to the difficult realities that have absorbed the characteristics of peoples and times. The many-sided eclecticism makes the direction adapted to different categories of lovers of a stylishly furnished home.
American style kitchen design
Bright room design in American style
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Breakfast place
An island, wide countertops, a dining area... Americans believe that this is not enough.
It would be a good idea to arrange another place for relaxation - for breakfast or lunch. You can adapt a bar counter or a small coffee table for it.
Palette and ornaments
The predominant tones in American classics are neutral. Most popular colors:
- white;
- black;
- brown.
Additionally, gray and beige are used to shade the primary colors and give them more expressiveness.
Also, to diversify and enliven a pale palette, you can add smoky shades: for example, khaki, blue-violet or gray-blue. However, it is important that there are not many such flowers. The basis of the composition is the black-white-brown triad.
The interior itself can be either “blurry” or contrasting. The first option is a tribute to the classics and rustic style (they actively contributed to the formation of the American tradition), the second is closer to Art Deco, the aesthetics of which also largely influenced the formation of American classic.
As for ornaments, they are used quite rarely. Mostly the surfaces are plain, without patterns, but there are also patterns. They are usually present on pillows, carpets, curtains, and less often on cladding. The same principle of symmetry is extremely important: patterns must repeat, create rhythm. Mostly designers turn to diamonds, zigzags, stripes, and quatrefoils. Moreover, all the drawings are monochrome and do not deviate from the general tone.
Practical furniture
When watching American films, it seems that even a middle-income family lives in luxurious apartments.
There are two basic rules here: high-quality natural materials (or a good imitation of them) and elegance. The most simple and functional silhouettes are what you need.
There is another nuance: it all depends on the style you choose. Don't think that American design is monotonous - it all depends on its focus.
Want retro? Buy lacquered sofas and cabinets with a glossy tabletop. If you like classics, choose fabric upholstery and natural wood.
