Edwardian Edge

Adding An Edwardian Edge To Your Dining Room

A time of grandiose and splendour, the "Belle Epoque" as it was also known may have been short-lived but it brought with it a breath of fresh air. Fresh air that can be easily applied to your home with just a few key changes.

Period interior design is very on-trend at the moment and Edwardian style provides you with the opportunity to achieve an alternative look in your home's interior. Should you be choosing to transform your home, we believe the dining room is an excellent place to start. In the past there was a significant focus on mealtimes, so the dining room was a focal point of the home, follow our tips below and add the Edwardian experience to your own dining room.

Furniture

Usually reproduction pieces, Edwardian furniture was known for reviving styles from previous eras and was largely an eclectic marriage of styles and influences. Whether you choose baroque, Art Nouveau or Tudor pieces, the key thing to look out for is furniture that is smaller and less bulky. Edwardian furniture was known for being a departure from the large, heavy and formal Victorian furniture that preceded it.

For a truly Edwardian look, consider furniture made from mahogany or lighter materials such as wicker or bamboo.

Flooring

For an authentic look in any interior, choose highly polished wooden floors that are stained with an oak coloured varnish.

Wallpaper

When it comes to wallpaper, choose a design that adds a breath of fresh air to your interior. Perhaps consider paper that features floral interior designs such as roses, wisterias or sweet peas, or perhaps a striped design. When it comes to wall interior design, a key Edwardian look was to break up the wall with a dado rail. Perhaps choose to emulate this and paper half the wall with a patterned design and paint the rest of the wall.

Colour schemes

Continuing the floral theme, choose pastel colour schemes and floral colours. Think lilacs, leaf greens and primrose yellows.

Lighting

Electrical lighting was relatively new in the Edwardian period and therefore was designed to be grand. Fabric lampshades with frills and tassels, smoked glass and ceiling roses are all very true of the period.

Heating

Again still a relatively new innovation, radiators were a big deal during the Edwardian period and were designed to be a talking point of the home. Take inspiration from these reproduction cast iron radiators and choose updated colours to contrast your space. These reproduction radiators stay true to Edwardian designs but are equipped to modern plumbing and interior design standards.

Pick of the Month: Sketches Around Peru

I thought I’d share this small study I found at the bottom of my drawer. A series of black and white drawings which start with a very linear and architectural perspective and evolve into a loose freehand sketch. Fresh out of school I found myself traveling through South America in ancient mystic lands of far way (for a European at least). The media is pen and marker, and the subject is the indigenous people of Cusco, Peru. Their fairly untouched culture reveals a subtle connection to the ancient lifestyle of Egypt suggesting the lands most have been joined at some point. The woman at the lake is standing on a Uros boat much like the Egyptians used long ago for transportation, at Lake Titicaca layer upon layer of dried reeds have been shaped into man made islands where they live work and play (talk about Lake-front living). These studies although somewhat abstract show daily life in the mountainous region of Peru.

Arcadian Home Guest Post - Dining Rooms

Hello, everyone! It’s Marie here with a guest post from Arcadian Home blog, a fabulous place to find interior design inspiration including great decorating ideas for everything from beautiful folding screens to glittering traditional chandeliers.

Those of you who are regular readers of Avanzato Design blog are already familiar with the always interesting and informative monthly palette trends series. Inspired by Vincenzo’s obvious love of color, we've pulled together eight of our favorite color-infused traditional dining rooms to share with you today. Please enjoy!

~ Marie

A traditional dining room with warm wood flooring is exquisitely dressed in soft yellows and accented with inviting lime-yellow end chairs.

Warm buttery yellow walls create an appealing background for this cheerful and slightly feminine traditional dining room. Drapery panels in pretty pink hues work beautifully with a large floral pattern on the chairs. Charming table decor gives this space a Sunday brunch feel.

Minty greens and blues bring a fresh modern take on traditional with a Chinoiserie twist. The vibrant wall color works beautifully with the pure white woodwork above and below.

Warm brown tones pair work well and tone down the bright orange fabrics in this updated traditional dining room. A beautiful mix of dining chairs includes two in chocolate brown velvet.

Brilliant turquoise brings this spacious dining room to life. Using so much color might seem like a bold design choice, but works here without overwhelming the room.

Wallpaper in white and pink on green brings a lively feel to this otherwise sedate dining room. The pretty traditional pattern creates a beautiful background for the wood furnishings in this space. Rather than the expected buffet lamps on the antique sideboard, silver vases of blooming branches mimic those in the wallpaper.

Vibrant pink is exquisite in this beautifully appointed traditional dining room. The deep pink hue is at once powerful and appealing. It must look even more stunning after dark in the glow from candles, wall sconces and chandelier.

This purple-infused dining room is beautiful on its own, but becomes an extraordinary space at the holidays with the addition of red decorative elements. If this room is any indication, purple and red seem to have a very companionable relationship. Images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8

What do you think of these traditional dining rooms? send us your comments and discover more home decor, accessories, and modern pendant lights at our blog!

Secretary Desks

The secretary desk, also known as a “secretaire”, is made of a base of wide drawers topped by a desk with a hinged desktop surface, which is in turn topped by a bookcase usually closed with a pair of doors, often made of glass, for those who perhaps have not seen one before, the secretary desk in a "mélange" of furniture pieces made up of a mix between a commode-dresser, a slant top desk and a book case first became popular around the 17th century. As the design began to evolve and adapt to modern day amenities, the slanted writing surface ultimately was replaced by a flat pullout design that is better suited for computers and keyboards.

Selected antiques and custom furnishings can be very decorative and because of its popularity, the "secretary" (not to be confused with the person that takes notes) has grown to be the most common. Today, one can find an endless array of reproductions from a string of manufactures and designers. Below is a custom made secretary that I created for a recent bedroom redesign. My client’s wife wanted a functional but yet beautiful piece of furniture for her bedroom that she could use to organize stationary and personal items.

Secretary desks are great for storage; they’re versatile enough to fit into almost any home and can be tailored to fit your design aesthetic. In addition to serving as a storage unit and desk space, the secretary can also be used as a display case. By throwing open the top tier one can easily showcase treasured collectibles while keeping clutter neatly stored away.

DESIGNER'S PICK OF THE MONTH: Picasso Pottery

For this week’s “Designer’s Pick” we've chosen to introduce a beautiful collection of ceramics designed by Picasso. Picasso loved the art of pottery, so much so that he named his son Claude after the patron saint of potters. Taking up the craft as a means of experimenting with a new artistic medium, the design process was seen as a challenge and way for Picasso to express his artistic passion. He painted an array of pieces, from plates to vases, which were often built up by molding, gouging and framing the clay while it was still pliable.

Stashed away, Picasso kept most of the works of art for his own private collection, which were later passed down to his heirs. For this reason, the ceramic pieces were often overlooked and undervalued. The collection has only started to gain popularity over the past twenty years, and today it consists of thousands of unique works. Take a look at a selected few pieces.

Cliff Lee - Porcelain Pottery

I came across a piece of Cliff Lee’s work while traveling and was instantly drawn in by the sensual shapes and delicate details that are strongly influenced by his family's Asian roots. Born in Vienna, Austria in 1951, Lee moved to the United States in 1968 to attend the college where he earned a degree in biology and went on to specialize in neurosurgery.  Lee took his first ceramic class as a way to relieve some of the stress brought on by his demanding career. As the weekend activity slowly began to evolve into a deeper passion he enrolled in a ceramic class at the University of James Madison in Harrisonburg, Virginia.

In 1993, President Clinton invited Lee to showcase his vases with the White House Collection of American Crafts that was set to tour the country. Today his pieces can be found in the Renwick Gallery, Mint Museum of Craft and Design and Racine Art Museum as well as the White House Collection of American Craft.

Lee currently lives in Pennsylvania where he now spends most of his time in the pottery studio creating works of art with rich detailing, character and a sense of history.

Coffee Tables - Avanzato Design

The coffee table, a staple piece in any living room, became popular during the Victorian era when tea-time was a celebrated afternoon activity. Over the years, the essential use for the coffee table began to evolve. Today the furnishing is incorporated into modern day settings for a variety of reasons. They are a wonderful place to display our objects, harmonize our seating arrangements and bring a layer of design into our living spaces.

Coffee tables should be thought of as functional works of art. They can be used to communicate our style while creating a platform to showcase our passions. Whether you’re feeling modern, traditional or classically chic, accentuate your decor with a coffee table that speaks to you and your design personality.

Depending on your selection, a coffee table can be the grounding center-piece to your living space. Before finalizing your coffee table decision, think about its function and what purpose it will serve. Dress it up and make it a true reflection of your design aesthetic by adding flowers, vases, books and other ornaments. Incorporating an eclectic mix of pieces will allow you to create a unique arrangement for both you and your guests to enjoy.

A truly beautiful coffee table should be able to create a striking visual when standing alone. The staging of your coffee table should never over power its true purpose. Always leave enough surface area for useable space.

Alex Turco & Avanzato Design

Create an element of visual interest in your outdoor space by introducing a focal wall with a creative design and pop of color! We recently teamed up with Italian artist Alex Turco to develop a stunning decorative panel for an exterior backdrop in an outdoor garden. The large panels face the canal, positioned in a way that allows viewers to enjoy the artistic image from both the boat and garden. The rendering, a depiction of a sensual mermaid, was designed using a photographed image that was then skillfully layered using multi-media graphics. Once the illustration was completed, rock crystals were added to create visual depth and dimension. The end result is a beautiful one of a kind rendition of a free floating form surrounded by water and cascading crystals. When the sun hits the stones, the light is reflected onto the backdrop creating a dramatic eye-catching effect.

Franz Xaver Messerschmidt

Born in the village of Wiesensteig in what is now part of southern Germany, Baroque sculptor Franz Xaver Messerschmidt created a series of portraits that were undervalued and rejected as unrefined works of art during the time of their creation 200 years ago. The collection, made up of faces carved in alabaster or cast in lead and tin alloy, was thought to be the workings of a “madman” as their expressive nature was unlike the standard designs of the time.

Wiesenteig always maintained a passion for the arts. At the age of 18, he moved to Vienna where he focused on refining his craft at the Academy of Fine Arts. During his early years, Messerschmidt’s commissioned portraits all depicted a style of stoic blankness, a classic pose similar to that often associated with the ancient rulers of Rome.

As time progressed, Wiesensteig began to show signs of mental strain. After being passed over twice for a position as a professor of sculptor, he sold his home and moved to the Slovak Republic where he lived alone and began to embrace the life of a hermit.

Amid his time alone, Messerschmidt began to develop a slight obsession with dramatic facial expressions. His designs are typically shown with tightly closed lips encompassing nothing more than the head and neck. This forces viewers to really focus on the carved details of the muscles and stretched skin.  200 years ago these heads were dismissed, however today Messerschmidt has become famous for his remarkable series of “Character Heads.” The modern creations have become a favorite amongst art lovers around the world.

Images via:

nedbajic.wordpress.com, common.wikimedia.org, laboiteverte.fr, nosideuo,blogspotcom, mikyag.blogspot.com, cultureheroesinc.blogspot.com

Designer's Pick - Orrefors Glass

Why not add a touch of elegance to your decor by incorporating a stunning glass design from the Orrefors collection? Showcasing the essence of classic Scandinavian beauty, these glassware assortments feature both utility glass and glass art, all made from polished crystal. The history behind the collection dates back to 1898 where, in Smaland, Sweden, expert Orrefors glassmakers worked alongside some of the top designers in the area to perfect their craft while developing new and innovative techniques and designs. Today the Orrefors team is made up of five designers, each of whom works to interject their own creative vision into the timeless and well refined collections that Orrefors is known for.

Look and be inspired by how the crystal glass adds a layer of sleek sophistication into each of these interior spaces.

Designer's Pick - Mark Voris

Mark Voris

Mark Voris

This beautifully painted landscape rendition showcasing the aura and richness of Tucson, Arizona is this week’s “Designer’s Pick.” I have not always been a fan of the western type of art, but the hand of Mark Voris captured my eye because of its unique “Van Goghesque” painting technique.

An international artist born in Franklin, Indiana, Voris later moved to Arizona in 1925 where he attended the University. Soon after graduating, he started to display an interest in various artistic outlets including printing, photo engraving and advertising. Through trial and error, Voris became a self taught well respected artist. The above painting is one from his collection that was designed using an impasto technique, a process in which paint is thickly laid on the surface of the canvas leaving the knife and brush strokes visible and layered with texture. We’ve also included a few more pieces from his extensive collection that display the same layered painting technique that the artist has become so famous for.

Mark Voris

Mark Voris

PALETTE TRENDS: Prestige Of Linen

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The fabric we have chosen for this month’s palette trends is a concept that takes you back to the origins to spice up a room with African patterns, deep colors paired with earth tones, on beautiful linen and cotton fabrics. Linen is reflective of a natural look, and it is not understood by everyone as it tends to have a worn look that is hard to imitate by other natural fibers. It has a beautiful earthy feel to its natural or dyed yarns, and it is known for its ability to stay fresh in hot weather, but it has a down side commitment is required since it wrinkles easily.

“Linen enthusiasts” appreciate the complex work that goes into producing it. Its hand has a specific characteristic that is less coarse today than it used to be (which is greatly appreciated) but still defining and even imitated, the weave of linen is copied by less wrinkly fibers to achieve the look and prestige of linen. It comes from the versatile flax plant, one of the oldest plants known; consequently linen is also one of the oldest fibers used after leather and wool, essentially because man went from hunting, to shepherding, to planting.

Linen is perceived as a vestment of purity. Used by many ancient priests probably because of its cleanliness and resistance to germs. Proof of this are the mummies of Egyptian pharos which were found with intact linen fabrics while other fabrics disintegrated or rotted away. It was so treasured in Egyptian times that it was valued as currency. Linen’s history, unmatched qualities and symbolism render it a fabric of stature today, and in times to come as it is written in the book of revelation that those going to heaven are dressed in fine linen, so it is safe to assume that there is a textile industry in heaven and therefore interior designers for all!

1. TALISH, FIG LINEN /KRAVET
2. EVERGLADE, ROAST LEATHER /LARSEN
3. ART OF DESIGN, CORAL CAPRI /KRAVET
4. ANOLA, MAZE 10% LINEN /KRAVET
5. SOHO, POTIRON /MANUEL CANOVAS
6. 28931, 1619 /KRAVET
7. LIMA, PIMENT-SAFRAN /MANUEL CANOVAS
8. JENTRY, CLAYPOT / KRAVET
9. CEYLON KEY, SPUNGOLD /KRAVET
10. INTERNODE, PAPRIKA /KRAVET

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 RESORCES:

http://www.die-leinenweber.de/linen-cultural-history-en_10.html

http://www.ulsterlinen.com/2.htm

TIMELESS PALETTE

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We are working with a diverse and versatile palette of hues, using classic patterns that capture a traditional romance with delicate shapes. Our chosen fabrics transcend with rich modern colors and achieve a timeless look with crown patterns like the brocatelle in amatista-red, or the craft details of white embroidery on silk, likewise, the brocade of vines on a teal-mineral ground, the deep violet cotton velvet, or the purple matelassé with its plush quilted pattern all evoke enduring luxury. Warm indigo blue and crimson red blend with variations of copper for a color scheme that is adaptable to comfortable spaces as well as refined settings. Primary and tertiary colors meet halfway celebrating their union in a flamboyant encounter, completing the atmosphere with earth tones. The gentleness of the beige serves as an undertone and compliments the intensity and strength of the dominant colors. This unique blend of colors combines for a sophisticated result.

1. FAUST, 4/ BERGAMO
2. SOLSTICE AGAPANTHUS/ VILLAROMO
3. ONDE MATELASSE, URCHIN/ DONGHIA
4. SUMMER PALACE, MINERAL/ KRAVET
5. CONCERTO, INDIGO/ ARDECORA
6. PALAIS ROYAL TAPE/ HOULES
7. CASTIGLIONE/ BERGAMO
8. PALAIS ROYAL TRIM/ HOULES
9. SAGA/ ZIMMER + ROHDE
10. DAPHNIS/ HOULES

DESIGNER'S PICK OF THE MONTH: Terje Lundaas

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For this week’s Designer Pick, we’ve chosen to introduce a collection of custom created glass works designed by international artist Terje Lundaas. Each piece, uniquely styled, sets the stage for an incredibly stunning visual. After spending time teaching the art of glass blowing at the University of Miami in Florida, Terje has put together a collection of intricately detailed works ranging from table ornaments to large scale chandeliers and sculptures. Each creation stems from an immense amount of effort and detailed design to make each piece a unique display. The result is a successful assortment of glass works overflowing with color and expressive design. We love it!

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DESIGNER'S PICK: White Plaster Furniture

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This week’s “Designer’s Pick” showcases a beautiful collection of crafted furnishings and accessories all made from plaster. The first documented use of this layered technique,  which involves applying lime or gypsum to a water and sand base,  started around the Egyptian era where it was often used for decorative wall and ceiling treatments.  The design became somewhat of a Hollywood obsession around the 1930’s when white furnishings became a popular trend. Short lived, the obsession quickly died down as the material was soon frowned upon for its brittle and seemingly frail nature. Today, with very few original designs having survived the test of time, these plastered furnishings have become extremely rare and also extremely valuable.  The off white pigmentation works to give each piece a whimsical aesthetic with delicate detailing that echoes on the designs so often seen throughout the Neoclassical era.

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DESIGNER'S BOOK PICK: Alberto Pinto Table Settings

Alberto Pinto Table Settings

Transform your table setting into a breathtaking display layered with an array of textures, beautiful floral arrangements and stunning accents with a little help from our book pick “Table Settings” by Alberto Pinto.  The book transports you to a world of enchantment where luxurious fine dining and embellished place settings are a must. Pinto is a master at tailoring his designs to create classically elegant ambiances and exceptionally chic décors. From seaside dining to formal affairs, Pinto has a setting to match every style and occasion. Just in case you’re still debating on whether or not his book would make a great addition to your home library, we’ve featured a few photos that are sure to convince you!

Chic table setting

chic luxury table settings

Luxury table settings

Design ideas Table settings

PALETTE TRENDS: Warm creams and violets

This month we are presenting a gentle palette with a touch of romance. Warm creams and violets blend for a colour scheme that is easy on the eye. Create interest with a variation of pale to rich creams and compliment the subtle ambiance with woods that are stained in light warm smoky finishes. A creamy sage is very close to the yellow family in the color wheel and it uplifts the neutrals with the freshness of nature. The softness of the creams guide you through the textured and patterned fabrics, which conclude with a touch of a strong royal violet. The soft vibes in this composition are perfect for an intimate setting, a romantic bedroom or a vintage party theme.

Palette Trends Warm creams

1. WALNUT WITH CUSTOM SMOKE STAIN
2. ROELINDA – DUKE/ ROGERS & GOFFIGON
3. SARGENT SILK TAFFETA/ SCHUMACHER
4. SHORELINE – RAY/ GP/ HOLLY HUNT
5. KERALA/ ZIMMER ROHDE
6. BLEACHED OAK WITH LIGHT STAIN CERUSE FINISH
7. WALL TO WALL/ GP/ HOLLY HUNT
8. CUSTOM COLOR/ TOWNSEND LEATHER
9. PIQUE –PARCHMENT/ ROGERS & GOFFIGON
10. MARRAKESH –GRAPE/ GP/ HOLLY HUNT
11. SOIREE –MIDORI/ GP/ HOLLY HUNT
12. MONTACUTE –ALPINA/ ROGERS & GOFFIGON

DESIGNER'S PICK: Wood Turning

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Today we’re celebrating the refined beauty and craftsmanship found in the art of wood turning. By using non-traditional techniques to reinvent traditionally styled designs, modern day artists gain the freedom and ability to express themselves creatively with wood, reinventing the material and creating an entirely new aesthetic. Featured below are innovative examples, all taken from Michigan collector Robert Bohlen’s personal selections, which were acquired during world travels. Each piece, skillfully made, was created not merely for function, but to stand-alone as a captivating piece of art.

Wood turning Dirk Bakker

Wood turning Dirk Bakker

Style: Eclectic Modern

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Today I’m going to share with you a few ideas on how to properly put together an eclectic modern décor that creates a comfortable space with a well lived-in feel. I like to create this by using a mixture of modern and one of a kind contemporary pieces.

Modern furnishings and classic touches

This space features the perfect combination of modern furnishings mixed with classic touches. With no window treatment, the natural light floods the interior and is enhanced by the white walls. The pieces are kept minimal, yet every selection makes a bold decorative statement.  When designing with modern furnishings, it’s important not to overcrowd the space and to allow each piece to breathe. This can often be a challenge to execute as you don’t have the leeway of pulling the décor together with extra details and accessories.

Eclectic Modern furniture

Eclectic Modern furniture John Houshmand

These exquisitely crafted furniture sculptures designed by John Houshmand combine beauty and art with functional forms. Each piece is simple yet powerful. Contemporary interiors are often thought of as cold and uninviting, but this is a huge misconception. The effect you wish your space to convey depends heavily on your choice of materials. Wood is a great material selection for contemporary design, as It creates the feeling of traditional comforts. The warm tones and neutral palettes result in a calming place to lounge.

Eclectic Modern Decor

Eclectic Modern furnishing

The hardest part in pulling together a cohesive eclectic décor is picking the appropriate furnishings. These classically modern pieces have a timeless feel.  They exude high style and are filled with character.  Depending on your space, the pieces should take advantage of the structural elements in your home and compliment the architectural details. When it comes to a modern  interior, less is always more.

The Louis Ghost chair designed by Philippe Starck

The Louis Ghost chair designed by Philippe Starck

Designed by Philippe Starck, although seen in an array of colors, the Louis Ghost chair is a modern rendition of the classic Louis XV chair. It’s chic with an element of playfulness and works well in areas where space is limited as its clear frame takes up little visual space.

Modern design the Barcelona chair

The Barcelona chair is the epitome of modern design in form and composition. Designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, its form exudes luxury style with a frame that is artistically beautiful. You are sure to make a statement with the incorporation of this elegant chair in your living space.

Modern furnishing the Eames Wire chair

Modern Eames Wire chair

The popular Eames Wire chair is simple and sleek. The texture that’s created by the grid frame, as well as the linear shadows it casts, makes it a feature. Whether it’s casual lounging or high-style dining, this piece can be dressed up or down to fit any décor.

Modern Egg Chair

The Egg Chair is a chair that invites you to come in and lounge. Placed in a room, it immediately catches your eye. This fashionable furnishing, graceful in form, was designed by Arne Jacobsen. It would work well in many living spaces where wrapped in its frame you can spend time relaxing.

Eclectic Modern Decor

Eclectic Modern Style

The insertion of a pendent light can change the entire dynamic of a space. Large industrial lighting fixtures can add an element of interest and drama. Stylishly oversized they become a focal feature. They can be traditional, modern or casual, as long as they work well with the arrangement and create a sense of cohesion.

PALETTE TRENDS: Bronze

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A cool bronze palette, enriched with time and personality. This bronze fabric combination is sophisticated with cream accents, midnight blue and steel grey highlights. Perfect for a transitional décor; bronze first gained popularity long ago but it has made a successful come-back in the past few years. We pair it with textures revealing craftsmanship and compliment it with contemporary metallic fabrics for a balanced transitional space. It is important to follow through in your décor, take the same transitional concept and use furniture that mixes straight lines and curves, or a mixture of traditional and contemporary furniture. Then carry on to the walls, lighting and accessories. In design this kind of attention to detail is called language, and it ensures your interiors are consistent and pleasant. If you can’t get enough bronze, here’s a place for indulgence.

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1. LEATHER/ HOLLY HUNT
2. VENETIAN GLASS, QUICKSILVER/ HOLLY HUNT
3. SHEER LUCK, CIRCUMSTANCE/ HOLLY HUNT
4. EUROSUEDE, ALMOND/ MOKUM
5. AMAZED, BRONZE PATINA/ HOLLY HUNT
6. GRANAFEI, 1/ BERGAMO
7. ILLUSION, ECLIPSE/ HOLLY HUNT
8. GREAT EXPECTATIONS, DEW DROPS/ HOLLY HUNT
9. CELERIE III / VALTEKZ