Colonial Revival Made Easy

Colonial Revival interior design is a style that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a nostalgic revival of early American colonial-era homes. It draws inspiration from the 17th- and 18th-century interiors of the American colonies, incorporating traditional craftsmanship, symmetrical layouts, and classic materials.

Key Features of Colonial Revival Interior Design:

Color Palette:

Soft, muted tones such as cream, beige, pale blues, greens, and warm grays.

Richer colors like deep reds, navy, and forest green are used as accents.

Architectural Details:

Crown molding, wainscoting, and chair rails.

Built-in cabinetry and bookcases.

Fireplace mantels with traditional detailing.

Symmetrical room layouts.

Flooring:

Hardwood floors in oak, walnut, or cherry.

Area rugs, especially Oriental or braided rugs, add warmth and texture.

Furniture:

Classic American and British colonial styles, including Queen Anne, Chippendale, and Federal-style pieces.

Dark-stained wood furniture with elegant curves and cabriole legs.

Upholstered seating in florals, stripes, or damask patterns.

Textiles & Patterns:

Traditional fabrics like toile, chintz, and damask.

Plaid, gingham, and needlepoint accents.

Heavy draperies with tassels or swags.

Lighting & Accessories:

Brass, pewter, or wrought-iron chandeliers and sconces.

Candlestick lamps and hurricane lamps.

Antique-style mirrors, framed artwork, and colonial-era maps.

Decorative Elements:

Classic Americana motifs such as eagle emblems, historical prints, and pastoral scenes.

China cabinets with porcelain and silverware displays.

Wooden rocking chairs and Windsor chairs.

Modern Takes on Colonial Revival:

While traditional Colonial Revival design can feel formal, modern interpretations often simplify the style with a lighter color palette, streamlined furniture, and a mix of contemporary elements. This can make spaces feel fresh while still honoring historical charm.

Colonial style originated in the American colonies during the 17th and 18th centuries, influenced by European settlers, primarily from England, France, Spain, and the Netherlands. It was a practical, durable style that reflected the settlers' need for functional yet elegant homes.

Key Periods of Colonial Style:

Early Colonial (1600s-1700s):

Simple, boxy homes with steep roofs.

Exposed wooden beams and hand-hewn furniture.

Minimal ornamentation due to limited resources.

Georgian Colonial (1700s-1780s):

Inspired by classical European symmetry and proportion.

Brick or wood-clad exteriors with decorative moldings.

Grander interiors with paneling, fireplaces, and elegant furniture.

Federal Style (1780s-1830s):

A refinement of Georgian style with lighter, more delicate details.

Fanlights over doors, slender columns, and neoclassical motifs.

Influenced by architects like Thomas Jefferson.

Colonial Revival (Late 1800s-Present):

In the late 19th century, a nostalgic movement brought back Colonial-style homes with modern updates. This style remains popular today, blending traditional elements with contemporary comforts.

Incorporating Colonial style into your home can add timeless charm and elegance while still feeling warm and inviting. Whether you're going for a full Colonial Revival look or just want to add a few touches, here are some key ways to bring the style into your space:

Architectural Details & Millwork

Add wainscoting, chair rails, and crown molding for a refined, traditional look.

Consider exposed wooden beams in ceilings for an Early Colonial feel.

Use built-in bookshelves or cabinetry to create a classic, functional layout.

Color Palette

Stick to muted, natural tones like cream, soft blues, sage green, and warm grays.

Use richer tones like deep reds, navy, or forest green as accents.

Opt for matte or eggshell finishes rather than high-gloss for a more historical feel.

Flooring

Install hardwood floors (oak, walnut, or cherry) with a natural or dark stain.

Layer Oriental or braided rugs for warmth and texture.

Furniture Selection

Look for classic Colonial furniture styles like Queen Anne, Chippendale, or Federal-style pieces.

Choose dark-stained wood furniture with turned legs, curved backs, or carved details.

Incorporate Windsor chairs, farmhouse tables, and rocking chairs for a casual Colonial feel.

Textiles & Patterns

Use toile, chintz, damask, and floral prints on upholstery, drapes, and pillows.

Incorporate plaid, gingham, and needlepoint for a cozy, historic touch.

Opt for heavy drapes with swags or valances, or simple linen curtains for a rustic look.

Lighting & Fixtures

Choose brass, pewter, or wrought-iron chandeliers and wall sconces.

Use candlestick-style lamps or hurricane lamps for a period-appropriate look.

Consider lantern-style pendant lights in entryways or kitchens.

Decorative Accents

Display blue-and-white porcelain, antique silverware, or pewter dishes in hutches.

Hang historical prints, pastoral landscapes, or colonial-era maps in simple frames.

Use wooden or woven baskets, brass candlesticks, and handmade quilts for an authentic touch.

Fireplace & Mantel Design

If you have a fireplace, make it a focal point with a traditional wooden mantel.

Decorate with brass fireplace tools, antique clocks, and classic portrait paintings.