(image via William Waldon Photography for Elle Decor)
A key thing to keep in mind is your color palette. Pastel tones inspired by nature were all the rage, with pale greens, sky blues and rose pinks in every room. To compliment the patina of the wood tones seen throughout an older home, the warm pastels were used extensively…in rugs, in the upholstery and drapes, and even on the ceilings. And more than using only solid tones, think about using wallcoverings to create this stately look. Materials used on furniture and drapery were also rich in their feel and look. Furniture in velvets and brocades, with overstuffed cushions and tufted backs, was abundant. Also used were leather chairs, especially in the library. Oriental carpets over hardwood floors are another aspect to consider. Large and small, rugs with intricate patterns and rich colors certainly bring to mind a feeling of elegance, and the older the rugs are, the better!
