We Americans are totally enamored with European homes, fashion, cars, and royalty. I have been to Europe a couple of times, and the one thing that impresses me more than anything is that Europeans do not tear down buildings and homes. Instead, they are remodeled, updated, and can live on. It is nothing for a building to be 600 years old or a house to be built in the 1600s. While all of these have been updated, the patina and textures of the wood, stucco, and stone are wonderful.
There is a new trend here in the states of using European decorating as inspiration for decorating our homes. Classic styles are eternal. The desired old wood floors and ironwork coupled with “old-looking” paint colors captures the look of old Europe.
I adore exposed beams and old wood paneling, so you can imagine my delight when The Cottage Journal staff published a new special issue, European Homes and Style. I just got my copy, and I have savored every page. I just want to go home and start over using some of the fabulous decorating ideas shown in the magazine. But what I will do is add some great European touches to my existing décor.
What is your favorite decorating style? Share your thoughts with me.