Create a country cottage look in your home by following one of these guides, or mix and match the styles to create a look entirely yours. There are no rules when it comes to these eclectic American designs.
“ Furniture is more basic and naturalistic and makes frequent use of mortise and tenon joints. ”
Early American/Colonial (1640-1700)—The most elementary time in American furniture, the Early American style was utilitarian and manufactured from local materials, including indigenous woods like maple, walnut and pine. English styles were either simplified in the colonies or brought from overseas to furnish homes of the period. However, some important American innovations, like the iconic rocking chair, were developed during this time and would go on to become well-loved additions in country homes today. Other furniture pieces commonly found in the Early American style home include trestle tables, canopy beds, cupboards, and chairs with ladder backs and rush or cane seats.
Pennsylvania Dutch/Amish (1720-1830)—Infused with Germanic influences, Pennsylvania Dutch furniture was simple and practical. Colorful accents came from folk painting applied to the case goods.
Shaker (1820-1860)—Constructed by a religious group in the United States by the same name, Shaker furniture exhibited a spare, straightforward design. The solid wood pieces were light in color with smooth and tapered lines, woven chair seats, rounded wooden knobs, and proportioned for optimal functionality. The result is a look that’s clean and unfussy, but well-crafted.
Mission Style/Arts and Crafts (1880-1910)—The Arts and Crafts style, also known as Mission style, played a hugely significant role in furniture design in the late 19th and early 20th century. The Arts and Crafts movement focused on functionality and the belief things were meant to be used. While the philosophy seems to set-up decades of fabulously boring furniture, it was anything but. Rather, Arts and Crafts furniture was beautifully designed, with manufacturers relying on exquisite craftsmanship and finishing techniques to add serene elegance to an item. Joints, such as the ubiquitous mortise and tenon joint of the time, were in clear view and enhanced an otherwise simple appearance. Wood was often quarter-sawed for the lovely way it presented the wood grain, and nails were usually hammered in by hand, with gleaming nail heads complementing upholstery. Wood slats, stretchers and handcrafted hinges of pewter and
copper further embellished, without ostentation, these masterworks.
Southwestern—Rich colors of the Southwest landscape provide warmth and joyful spirit to this style. Furniture is more basic and naturalistic and makes frequent use of mortise and tenon joints. The look is enhanced by turquoise or silver accents. Full achievement of a Southwestern look may require some Navajo rugs and other indigenous accents.
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