The American way of life, characterized by freedom, confidence, and emancipation, has always attracted attention. The interior style, which has absorbed all the characteristic features of the inhabitants of this country, is gaining popularity every year. Despite the external spontaneity and disorder, the American style in the interior gives calm, harmony, allows you to fully relax, and find delight in family values. The choice of this direction in home design is due to the presence of large dimensions of the room, the desire for practicality, and a unique perception of reality.
What makes an American classic?
American interiors never cease to amaze with their varied consistency, wide scope, and subordination to rationality. The roots of these characteristics go deep into history.
American style room interior
American style design
Historical formation
The origin of the trend is associated with the beginning of the development of the continent by white colonialists. European settlers rudely interfered with the natural course of history. A new way of life with an inextricable interweaving of cultures ensured the centuries-long development of a mentality typical of the inhabitants of this country.
The American style, which has absorbed colonial history, is based on the English classics, but, unlike its prim progenitor, it is perfectly adapted to the difficult realities that have absorbed the characteristics of peoples and times. The many-sided eclecticism makes the direction adapted to different categories of lovers of a stylishly furnished home.
American style kitchen design
Bright room design in American style
See alsoEclectic style in the interior
Character traits
American style, despite its apparent spontaneity, is always carefully thought out and clearly planned. Among the features, the most common typical features are:
- eclecticism - represents a close interweaving of cultures and traditions of the country’s rich population;
- rational use of space - any free space is beneficially used (under the stairs, above the chest of drawers);
- comfort and freedom in a simple design - furniture, arrangement method, arrangement of objects - everything obeys these criteria;
- simple lines, smoothed shapes, laconic design - are reflected in the main priorities for choosing furnishings;
- sparse decor that supports the self-confidence of the owners - the obligatory presence of individual authoritative relics, objects of special pride;
- reverent attitude towards vintage elements - purchasing, remaking old things into a unique object of pride.
Any American interior is subject to the above criteria. These features have become a true characteristic of national design.
Bright room in American style
American style room interior
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About style: history and features of different years
The emergence of the American style occurred in the first half of the 17th century.
It was at this time that the first settlers from Europe began to explore the unknown, but so attractive and fascinating overseas continent. Wealthy immigrants tried to furnish their homes in the spirit of their native culture. It was not so easy to recreate the situation on the territory.
The lack of suitable finishing fabrics and materials did not allow us to thoroughly convey the features of a particular interior style. Therefore, when finishing the houses, elements from different foreign trends were used - literally what was available.
This was the reason for the departure from the inherent rigidity of the “Old World” interiors. The style gradually became more and more original.
At first, even expensive furniture was simple and functional, in keeping with British fashion trends. By 1780, the earlier simplicity had been replaced by respectable carvings and curved frames. At the same time, the first examples of truly American furniture appeared - wardrobes in the form of chests of drawers placed on top of each other, or secretaries with wavy contours.
At the beginning of the 19th century, the formation of the American style was almost complete. Its main distinguishing features are restraint, laconic decor, rich natural color and clear geometric shapes.
After the World Exhibition of Industrial Conquests in Paris at the beginning of the 20th century, the whole world and America became interested in the ideas of Art Deco. This is confirmed by the luxurious and extravagant interiors in which famous Hollywood films of that time were filmed.
For almost half a century, the demand for products in the Art Deco style has not decreased. When passions subsided, the producers tried to create a new excitement by spreading the rural theme. But not everyone was impressed by the calls to live in harmony with nature, so the country style advertised at that time did not find sufficient support, although there was still a slight pushback in this direction.
American interiors today are distinguished by sophisticated minimalism and careful selection of every detail. Modern furniture makers in the United States emphasize comfort, functionality and beauty rather than ostentatious luxury.
Key points of interior design
Preferring the American style of the house, be sure to focus on the characteristic features of the design of the premises:
- presence of a large area;
- absence of unnecessary restrictions (partitions);
- subordination to the central line.
When decorating the interior in the traditions of the direction, it is worth adhering to the features and typical features in order to create a characteristic American style.
American style room design
Bright room in American style
See alsoEnglish interior
Lighting
The lighting is variable: you can hang horn chandeliers on the ceiling or install spotlights around the perimeter. There should be enough light, and for this purpose sconces, table lamps, and floor lamps are placed in all suitable places. However, natural light is a priority. Panoramic windows are installed in the living rooms; frameless glazing is used for the veranda. Even in the bathroom, according to the project, you can provide a window.
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Color solution
The predominance of monochromatic colors in the interior that do not differ in brightness is considered the most acceptable solution in creating a typical atmosphere for the direction. It must be remembered that the American style is loyal to eclectic features. Therefore they use:
- harmonious classic combination (brown and white, their shades);
- contrast inclusions (red, blue, cyan).
Geometric patterns can add variety to a monochromatic palette. Large, unobtrusive elements are preferred. Materials containing volumetric textures and heterogeneous texture are acceptable.
American style room interior
American style room interior
See also: Benefits of 3D interior visualization: photos, tips
Home saloon
We have already mentioned the bar counter. An almost indispensable element for a studio apartment with an American kitchen.
It can be used both as an additional cabinet for kitchen items, and as a separator between two zones and, of course, for its intended purpose.
In addition, the original bar counter is already an interior decoration. If we were you, we wouldn't neglect this combination of style and practicality.
And, since we are already talking about aesthetics, let’s smoothly move on to the decor.
Surface decoration
American style does not have strict requirements for floor design, but most often it is:
- wooden (board, parquet, laminate);
- stone (porcelain tiles, tiles);
- bulk
Americans rarely use carpet as flooring. For decorative purposes, for practical purposes, it is allowed to use a compact carpet near the sofa in the living room, or the bed in the bedroom.
American style in home interiors loves a heated floor system. A particularly practical addition for cold finishing materials. This option best helps create the comfort of an open surface.
American style room design
American style in the interior of the room
For walls, Americans prefer a uniform design. A typical option is to paint a flat surface (wallpapered, plastered). In this case, calm tones without gloss are most often used. Wallpaper containing a slight texture or pattern is allowed.
You can diversify the uniformity of the walls with the help of decorative inserts (stone: natural, artificial, wood). American style with a modern interpretation allows for large graphics. Using bright contrast or obtrusive print is unacceptable.
Americans traditionally decorate ceilings with light shades. Painting and whitewashing are the most acceptable methods. A favorite decoration method is moldings and wooden beams. In modern interiors, suspended, tensile structures with proper lighting organization are often used.
Light distribution is an important aspect of proper design. If the classic design does not provide for the use of spotlights, then they try to supplement the living room (or other room) with a variety of light sources (sconces, floor lamps, table lamps). Enough attention is also paid to the flow of natural light.
Bright room in American style
American style room design
See alsoEthnic style in the interior of a modern apartment
A few more details
The basis of any interior is furniture, so the overall appearance of the living room depends on its choice. This can be an elegant, restrained setting, close to the living room, or a rather democratic and laconic composition. American living room furniture often resembles traditional models from Victorian England - with “curled” armrests, quilted upholstery, graceful but unobtrusive legs. There are no carved details or additional decor, so even elegant products look quite light and unobtrusive.
Another characteristic detail is a semblance of luxury - not truly expensive solutions and materials, but good, high-quality finishing options. Yes, they look quite expensive, but they remain budget-friendly and easy to use. This is the well-known laminate instead of parquet, simple wallpaper and paint with a textured pattern, MDF instead of natural solid wood.
The stained glass windows in the ceiling look stylish. They can be called typical of art deco, but similar designs also look organic in colonial design. As a rule, the style and plot of the mosaic is supported by the facades of the set, in which only elements of the entire composition can be used.
Selection and arrangement of furniture
The main criteria when purchasing furniture are comfort and functionality. The items chosen are large, allowing for maximum comfort. In the living room, the most valued pieces of furniture are the sofa and armchairs located closer to the center of the room. The bedroom has a full bed with an orthopedic mattress.
American style furniture prefers the same type, preferably a set or belonging to a single collection. They try to place objects in the center of the room, with the exception of cabinets. They like to leave the main part of the walls open.
American style bedroom
American style room design
Increased attention is paid to modern technology, because it makes life easier and brightens up. In the living room, the TV becomes the center of attraction. Bedrooms are often devoid of this invention because they strive to provide an ideal atmosphere for sleep.
A spacious kitchen in an American home is usually equipped with all the necessary furniture, a comfortable island, and a bar counter with high chairs. The dining group is often moved to the living room, a separate room (if it is a private house). A kitchen combined with a living room is more typical for city apartments.
American style room interior
Bright room in American style
See alsoGrunge style in interior design
We divide the territory
If Americans have a tendency to unite everything in one room as much as possible, then why can't they create chaos?
It's all about the correct division into zones - despite the absence of walls, they do not mix thanks to the proper arrangement of furniture, the use of color transitions and decor.
For example, a bar counter. We talk about it in more detail in the corresponding paragraph of our review, but it also copes with this function perfectly, helping to separate the kitchen from the living-dining room.
For the same purpose, a dining table, flowerpots or various structural elements can be used.
Creating comfort: textiles, decor
American interiors prefer dense natural materials as textile additions. Minor admixtures of artificial raw materials are possible to improve the overall characteristics of the fabric. Textile decor of a simple cut without unnecessary additions. Curtains are classic straight without lambrequins. The bedspreads are one-piece with no ruffles or complex elements. Decorative pillows - simple without appliqués.
As curtains, the American style allows for Roman options. Blinds have become widespread in modern interiors. To implement the loft direction, it is possible to completely avoid textiles on the windows or use materials with unobtrusive geometric graphics. Creating a country style allows for the presence of small floral patterns and light ruffles.
White room in American style
Bright room in American style
Classic American style does not accept an abundance of decorative elements. Paintings and photographs hidden by frames can add completeness to the interior. A large floor vase and a fresh flower arrangement are good options for an American living room. Particular attention is paid here to items of pride: awards, cups, collections. These things emphasize reverence for family values, a reverent attitude towards achievements, universal recognition, and nurture self-esteem.
When choosing decor, true Americans are often guided by their own taste, and by the inconsistency of the element with the interior. Often the decoration, especially the living room, turns out to be motley and tasteless. Only over time, with the advent of an awareness of convenience and ease, do you realize how pleasant it is to be in this environment.
American style room interior
Beautiful room in American style
Stunning American style design
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Work zone
In America they like to mix different styles: modern trends coexist with cozy retro, minimalism is complemented by ethnic elements. The dining area can be made to look like a cozy colonial-style cafe, and the workplace can be kept in a country style. But there is no feeling of chaos.
BY THE WAY. A large number of things in the kitchen does not cause discomfort, since there is somewhere to hide them. And these are not only all kinds of drawers and cabinets, but also spacious storage rooms for those dishes and equipment that are used only from time to time. Canned goods, groceries and other supplies are also stored there.
A huge sink and refrigerator, open shelves - everything they love in America
Furniture arrangement
The kitchen set is usually placed along two or three walls bordering each other. That is, the letter G or the letter P. This makes it convenient to move from one object to another.
In addition to cabinets, there are also open shelves on which beautiful spice jars, dishes and some decor are displayed.
ADVICE. When arranging furniture in the kitchen, adhere to the “working triangle” principle. It implies that the sink, refrigerator and stove should be approximately equal distances from each other, like the sides of a triangle.
The location of the kitchen unit on two adjacent walls
To buy a kitchen in the spirit of American classics, you should pay attention to paneled but laconic facades. In the USA, they often repaint kitchen furniture with their own hands to get an updated, stylish interior.
Classic facades in unusual colors
Island and sink
An important element of the work area is the island - a free-standing counter. Without it, the picture will not be complete. The island can perform the following functions:
- working surface;
- bar counter for quick snacks or breakfasts;
- a place to store dishes, towels, cutlery and other accessories that should always be at hand;
- space for installing a sink.
IMPORTANT. There should be fairly wide passages around the island - from 80 to 130 cm. At the same time, passages that are too large are also inconvenient, because during cooking you will have to cover these distances many times.
The large island will accommodate everything you need
An alternative to an island for small rooms is a peninsula - one of the sides of this structure is adjacent to the unit or to the wall. Another find of the designers is a “migrating” small island on wheels. If necessary, such a mini-island can be easily moved around the kitchen.
The sink can be placed not only in the island, but also near the window - this design is also common. This arrangement attracts those who want to admire the view from the window while washing vegetables, for example. By the way, you can clean fruits and vegetables directly into the sink, because almost all sinks in the United States are equipped with special organic waste grinders - disposers.
There are no curtains on the windows near which the sink is installed. Only blinds or roller blinds. However, other windows in the house are often left without textile frames.
Kitchen-dining room without island, with sink by the window
American home design options
The dining room is a cult place in the American interior. The whole family gathers here in the mornings and evenings. The meal is a leisurely affair; important issues are discussed during the meal. The furnishings of the kitchen and living room should be conducive to family gatherings. There is a lot of space, light and cozy. They prefer natural kitchen decoration, for example, wooden furniture is valued. Environmental friendliness and convenience are much more important than appearance.
The living room is intended for receiving visitors and family gatherings. People wear street shoes here, so the finishing materials and furniture are extremely practical. All the best, which is the pride of the family, is on display.
American style in the interior suggests the presence of several bedrooms. The largest room is for the heads of the family, the rest are for children. If there is free space, a guest room must be equipped. The bedrooms are decorated without frills. The central attention is given to the large-scale bed. The color scheme of the bedroom is light and fresh. Furniture - minimum.
American style room interior
Chic American style room design
There is usually more than one bathroom. The ideal option is a separate one for each bedroom. The interior is conducive to relaxation. No washing machines or other household appliances. The bathroom is intended for relaxation. Light colors in the design, large dimensions of the room are the main features of the room. Plumbing, a minimum of furniture, enough free space - these are the main features of the right bathroom for an American.
American style in the interior does not require significant expenses. The main condition is the possession of a considerable area. The design is simple but functional. The house always attracts with its comfort and warm family atmosphere. An apartment is also often decorated in this style, but most likely the furnishings will be more modern and practical.
See also Studio design of 26 square meters - how to combine everything?
Breakfast place
An island, wide countertops, a dining area... Americans believe that this is not enough.
It would be a good idea to arrange another place for relaxation - for breakfast or lunch. You can adapt a bar counter or a small coffee table for it.
