ACCENTS

Styles that have withstood time

Through time, traditionally styled homes have always been renewed in design requests because of the feeling of nostalgia and hearth. The elements that make up this concept of a “traditional home” have survived throughout the years and remain timeless trends in the realm of design and decor.

Here are three different styles from days past that you can still find in homes today.

Accent tiles in kitchens and bathrooms

Wall tiles as accents in two of the most vital spaces of a home have been around for more than 150 years. The concept, which imitates the tiled walls in subways, was originally designed by New York architectural firm partners George Heins and Christopher Lafarge. Though the tiles now vary in size and are often smaller, this wall accent adds a classic feel to the kitchen and bathroom.

Similar tile patterns can also be found in the exterior of a home, especially the front face. These tiles can vary in color, often different shades of a color, to add a bit of personality.

Bookcases and shelves as decorative pieces

From a functionality perspective, the aim of bookcases and shelves is to organize reading materials, picture frames, awards and prized possessions. While this purpose is still at the forefront of their designs, modern homeowners (or renters) have installed bookcases and shelves simply for aesthetic reasons.

A wall covered with rows of books, video games or hobby collections can make for better accent walls, depending on the individual. Open shelves can also hold potted plants, succulents or decorative vases for a touch of elegance. Built-in bookshelves are a timeless addition to a room, reminiscent of some of largest and long-lived libraries around the world.

With a little effort, inexpensive modern-day shelving can be used to recreate those impressive shelves of past times. Coving above a shelf, or the right lighting to emphasize a collection of items have held their usefulness and creative appeal.

Natural daytime lighting

In the past, a window was the only source of light and air circulation for a home. The inventions of electricity and modernization have since created new sources of light that can illuminate areas that even window light cannot reach. Still, natural lighting invokes a look and feeling that artificial light cannot replicate. The variable warmth and breeze of an open window during a summer’s day add to the appeal of natural light. Natural lighting also brings the outdoors indoors and can beautifully illuminate the decorative pieces in a home, based on the position of the sun.

For all the new innovations that technology has come up with for lighting up homes, none can compare with light coming from a window. p

Bookshelves remain a timeless piece in a home, even if they are not exclusively used for books.