Nothing brings a home to life like architectural detail. If your home is one of these styles, or you just love
it and want to integrate it into your own home, here are a few tips to get you started.
1) Don't be afraid of the dark:
Wood is often stained dark colors in this style to blend with the furniture of the times. Dark wooden chair rails* and picture rails* were found in most homes during this period. They are put to best use in formal rooms such as the dining room.
2) Lighten up:
Good lighting can be illuminating. Fixtures of the time were fitted for gas or oil burning. Glass globes and dangling crystal fringe in a base made of brass, cast iron or pewter and tin are a sign of these times.
3) What goes up, must come down:
A staircase sets the tone for the rest of the home. The newel post* can be one of the most elaborate piece of woodwork in the home. For a grander design have the balusters* match the newel.
