Designing in the American Tradion: Georgian Style

American traditional-American Georgian 1725-1790

Historical Overview:
 The American Georgian style developed logically under King George of England (ca 1714-1810)
 and spread to North America with Colonists. Work by designers such as Chippendale, Hepplewhite and Sheraton characterized the style at its best. Georgian is a formal style with classical ties, so symmetry is important. Within these designs, molding details resulting in grand friezes, cornices pillars and pilasters are important. Classical designs such as dentil, egg-and-dart and Greek key are seen in may of the molding details. Carved corbels, brackets and appliques or inlays of acanthus leaf and leafy garlands are also incorporated. The use of molding and paneling are a key element to this style. Scalloped shell motif is seen in furniture detailing. And delicate curves and soft lines are also trademarks. A formal look and quality craftsmanship are hallmarks of this more refined interior.

Cabinetry/Millwork: The use of mahogany, walnut, cherry and maple are predominate. Stile-and-rail doors with solid raised panels or flat panel doors with applied square molding and detailed panel edging. Painted cabinet finishes or lightly glazed painted finishes reflect the woodwork or the time.

Painted finish and light glaze along with columns on this island give a nod to the

American Georgian look

                                 Dentil modlings on upper crown of cabinets has classic Georgian feel




Hardware: Brass, antique brass, copper, pewter are all appropriate

Countertops: Wood-edged countertops or solid surface material with formal, routed edges. Hand-painted tiles are effective. granite or marble both work well in these formal rooms.

Colors: Black (Oriental influence), red, green, blue: intense colors are used. Tints and tones may also be featured.

Surfaces:

• Floors: Plank or parquet flooring, Oriental area rugs, hall runners and area carpets work well in small bathrooms.
• Walls: Painted, paneled walls or wood wainscoting. Small patterned wallcovering.
• Ceilings: Plaster with ceiling crown molding. No heavy beams that contrast with the ceiling.

Accents: Gold, brass, antique brass metals are used. Furniture pieces add authenticity.