Interior design and in-style vogue have been intertwined for decades. In this article series called "Secrets of Polish and Flair," I examine the meaning of flair for interior design professionals today. I reflect on my professional know-how from collaborating with many of London's top interior design mavens. This is the final article in my series - please join me as I complete my exploration of period design, by jumping right in to the world of the Georgian.
When interior design professionals talk of "Georgian," they generally have in mind the interior design landscape as it existed from about the 1710s until the late 1820s. Georgian design styles continue to be incredibly popular in London today.
London was a mecca for interior design in the Georgian era - English craftsmen and women ranked among the best in the world for skillfulness and versatility. The richest Londoners craved high quality, and their unrelenting sophistication demanded perfectly-sized furniture items.
A handful of interior design professionals made names for themselves in Georgian times. Their iconic contributions continue to influence us today in the thousands of private and public interiors that are Georgian-inspired on so many levels.
An expose of Georgian design would not be complete without a reference to William Kent, the interior design patriarch who lived from 1684 until 1748. His fabulous seating and dining solutions showcased opulent ornamentation that harked back to the mythologies of the Ancient Greco-Roman era. In modern times, such period design elements are still a favourite of London interior design boutiques that work extensively with the Georgian style.
Thomas Chippendale is practically a household name among well-heeled Londonders today. The famous furniture designer lived from 1718 until 1779. He created cabinetry that was considered not as showy as that of William Kent. Chippendale's work is often conceptualised as being more "English" in style - it appealed more to London's sense of refinement and class. The highly polished and gentlemanly look was exactly what the upper crust craved. Today's interior design mavens will recommend both Chippendale originals and modern copies for our most discerning clients.
When I mentor interior design students, I will often recommend vigilance with Georgian styles - this design approach risks being seen as inappropriately grandiose if one makes it too obvious. I will really only recommend the Georgian interior design style for expansive London manor houses with large windows.
That brings to an end my series called "Pulse of the Interior Design Profession: Secrets of Polish and Flair." Thank you for reading!
London Renovation Company - Global Interior Design Consultancy Company in London, UK for interior design and renovation services.
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