Americana is more than just a style. It is a viewpoint, a way of life. Americana style can encompass all the eras of the country’s past, beginning with Colonial times through the modern era. It can be as elaborate or as plain as its decorator desires, according to their own tastes.
How to Begin
The main ingredient of this style is the signature red, white, and blue palette that gives this decorating style its name. These colors are most obviously found in the country’s flag. Look for items that have a combination of these colors, or only one, such as blue plates and red coffee cups. When the items are put together, they will blend into a pleasing display.
Antiques are a perfect complement to the style and can be readily interspersed among typical Americana items.
Items to Consider
- Flags
- Baskets
- Pottery
- Stoneware in Americana colors
- Crocks
- Coffee grinders
- Chalkboards with painted frames
- Old breadboxes
- Reproduction tins
- Rag rugs
- Uncle Sam items
- Folk Art
- Reproduction prints of the Constitution and Bill of Rights
Putting It All Together
The list can go on endlessly, but the most important idea is to bring the items together in a pleasant arrangement. If the kitchen is large enough, add extra shelves made especially for displaying the Americana items.
Country
The obvious red, white and blue are perfect for country style decorating. Country style is probably the most common style infused with Americana. Country style is easy on the eye as well as the wallet, if one is creative. It is a perfect style for families, as all those little nicks and scratches from every day wear only add character to the articles.
Paint old pieces of furniture in bright red, or cobalt blue and watch how the colors add to the room’s ambience. These are especially good colors for children’s items, such as tables, chairs, and rockers.
Primitive
Primitive Americana is the most extreme example of the style. A primitive home decorated in Americana will include distressed and stained items, including the flags. Also, folk art items that are naïve in style will work well with this look. Search stores and flea markets for Americana angels that are made in red, white, and blue, as well as stained and distressed wall hangings and candles.
Farmhouse
Farmhouse style, like country, works very well with Americana. Farmhouse décor can be a lot of fun and adds a bit of whimsy to the style. Search for red, white, and blue stoneware, baskets, and farm yard animals. For curtains, consider red or blue gingham checked material. Rag rugs, butter crocks, and old coffee grinders make a perfect statement in this décor style and can be easily found in the appropriate colors
Mary Briggs - I am a wife and mom. We live in the mountains in a home we built ourselves. I enjoy writing both fiction and non-fiction. I am also a ...
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