How the Rococo Design Trend Is Making Even the Smallest Homes Look Ornate
Home décor goes through phases, often inspired by past design periods. Homeowners seem to always be looking for new ways to bring classic looks back, whether those looks come from 100 years ago or 300 years ago. But it can be difficult to come up with new ways to honor the past, since everything seems to have been done before.
One of the latest trends is bringing back an artistic period in European history, making everyday homes look royal. Called rococo, this design style can be seen in some of the best-known palaces, castles, and attractions around the globe. And now it’s gradually beginning to appear in homes, condos, and apartments across America.
Classic Interiors
The biggest issue for many homeowners will be cost. Rococo furniture can be extremely costly, which explains why it has been traditionally found in only the homes of the wealthiest people. But the popularity of the look has led budget designers to attempt the look, with furniture and knickknacks available from discount retailers like Walmart and Wayfair.
If you want a more authentic look, you may be able to find the look you want at estate sales. You could also check eBay, which has a Rococo Furniture section, and Craigslist. You may even be able to find some Rococo furniture at antique stores, although you may need to put some work into refurbishing the pieces you find.
The Look for Your Home
Rococo is often seen in large rooms with high ceilings, but it can work in small rooms, as well. The important thing is to ensure it blends with the rest of the room’s décor, so it may be necessary to work around it. Users have posted some furniture on Pinterest that would work even in small spaces, provided the rest of the area was minimalized.
If you choose a large, ornate piece of furniture like a bed or sofa, it’s important to ensure the rest of the room is minimalized to avoid a room full of pieces that war for attention. In a small living space, one eye-catching piece might pack more of a punch than a roomful of extreme items.
The Basics of Rococo
As this designer points out, there are three major elements to rococo: curved lines, exoticism, and forms suggesting rocks or shells. Eighteenth-century rococo furniture featured patterned fabric and carved rosewood or mahogany wood. More contemporary versions of rococo may attempt to recreate that but will likely be much less detailed, mimicking the shape and style of the furniture with simpler fabrics and less expensive wood.
These chairs are an example of how contemporary designs have aspired to make furniture with the curves of rococo. However, if a homeowner wants the true rococo look, it might be necessary to shop higher-end furniture stores or antique stores for the real thing.
Rococo is an exciting design trend that will likely always have a place in upper-class homes. However, the new trend allows the look to incorporate into any home, whether it’s a small apartment or a suburban two-story family home.
