18th - early 19th century
Classicism (French classicisme, from Latin classicus - exemplary) is an artistic and architectural style.
Classicism in architecture replaced the pompous rococo, a style that had already been widely criticized since the middle of the XNUMXth century for excessive complexity, bombast, mannerism, for complicating the composition with decorative elements. During this period, the ideas of enlightenment began to attract more and more attention in European society, which was reflected in architecture. Thus, the attention of the architects of that time was attracted by the simplicity, conciseness, clarity, calmness and rigor of ancient and, above all, Greek architecture.
A style that refers to the ancient heritage as a norm and an ideal model. Characteristic: geometric, regular shapes, discreet decor, expensive high-quality materials. The interior is not overloaded with details, full of restrained dignity, taste and respectability, inspires peace and solidity. The classic style of the interior is made for a long time and is inherited.
Prevailing and trendy colors:
White, saturated colors; green, pink, magenta with a gold accent, sky blue.
Materials used:
Natural wood: walnut, cherry, Karelian birch. Type-setting parquet with various inserts of valuable, rare wood species. Silver, porcelain, gilding, mother-of-pearl, bronze, stone, expensive fabrics, leather.
Classicism style lines:
Strict repeating vertical and horizontal lines; bas-relief in a round medallion, smooth generalized drawing, symmetry.
The form:
The clarity and geometry of forms, the statues on the roof are expressive pompous monumental forms.
Characteristic elements of the interior of classicism:
Restrained decor, round and ribbed columns, pilasters, statues, antique ornaments, coffered vault.
Construction:
Massive, stable, monumental, rectangular, arched.
Windows of classicism:
Rectangular, elongated upwards, with a modest design.
Classic style doors:
Rectangular, paneled; with a massive gable portal on round and ribbed columns; possibly decorated with lions, sphinxes and statues.
Furniture:
Furniture of the era of classicism - solid and respectable, was made of precious wood. The texture of wood is of great importance, acting as a decorative element in the interior. Pieces of furniture were often finished with carved inserts made of precious wood. Decor elements are more restrained, but expensive. The shapes of objects are simplified, the lines are straightened. The legs are straightened, the surfaces become simpler. Popular colors: mahogany plus light bronze finish. Chairs and armchairs are upholstered in fabrics with floral patterns.
Interior items:
Fireplace, various columns, daggers, stucco, antique sculptures, paintings on the walls, silver slides, porcelain, many books. Chandeliers and lamps are equipped with crystal pendants and are quite massive in execution.
At present, the classicism style can be successfully used both in spacious halls and in small rooms, but at the same time it is desirable that they have high ceilings - then this decoration method will provide the greatest effect.
To create an interior in a classic style, designers usually select appropriate fabrics, as a rule, bright, rich varieties of textiles, including tapestries, shiny taffeta and velvet, fit well into this theme.
Bathroom in the style of classicism looks chic and stylish. The design of the bathroom in this style suggests a spacious room with large ceilings. The most important thing is the bath itself. It is located on the podium or on bent legs.
Cast iron, marble or bronze bath. Soft lines, raised headrest. The classic color is white, the shape is rounded. Mixers in the style of classicism gold, bronze, and copper.
The design of a bathroom in the style of classicism can be in the spirit of an ancient bath, using appropriate materials: marble, columns, stucco decorations.
Marble, natural stone, decorative plaster are used for wall cladding.
Bathroom cladding colors: light yellow, light grey, pink, blue and light orange, olive and dark green.
Decor in the style of classicism: cornices, paintings, columns, vases and large mirrors.
Fashion for modern styles changes from year to year. The classicism style will never go out of fashion, will not become old-fashioned, but will always be popular.
Continuation of the review of interior styles follows ...