England pt.1

 Gina Christopher 

England is the period of decorative styles and furniture. English furniture is a high point in the history of designed objects.  English design is known for its ability to morph styles into their own. English artists and designers worked with continental styles, such as classicism, gothic, and renaissance adapting them into local needs and adding local designs. The English design nomenclature is important for English colonies such as Australia, Canada, Kenya, New Zealand, etc. They rely on the English system and then make their own modifications. Although many earlier ideas were reused there are some things that English design is known for such as, naming their design period after their rulers (Tudor, Elizabethan, Jacobean, Cromwelliam) and their extensive use of oak. Oak forests were of vast majority in England, hence their material of choice. With that being said, let’s get into some marvelous examples from this time period. 

My favorite art/architecture/furniture 

Jacobean turned chair 

Tripod stools from the medieval period took a rather decorative turn here. These seats were simple and were rendered elaborate with the addition of turned elements, hence the name. The turned elements were in place of chip carvings as a source of decoration. I like these chairs because the design is more 3D than 2D.

St. Paul’s Cathedral - London, England

St Paul’s Cathedral is one of Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpieces. It is unique due to its Baroque style, which makes it different from the Gothic architecture seen in other English cathedrals. The Cathedral has a famous large lead-covered dome, which is made up of three layers. The interior has grand arches and intricate wood detailing. I think this Cathedral is simply timeless!

Tudor-style timber-frame houses 

This type of timber frame construction is found throughout much of Europe. In Germany it is called fachwerk, and is often found in medieval buildings, but there is no neat correlation between them. Tudor is actually in the period in which Italian Renaissance forms came about. I like this look becuase it feels homey or cottage-like. 

Applications 

Tudor-style homes today

Tudor -style construction still lives on today. I’ve seen many examples driving through neighbors, especially in the Wheaton/Glen Ellyn area. Today, the designed it much more complex/modern including more windows and balconies. I really like this style now that I took time to look it up!

3 legged chairs today

There are some examples of 3 legged chairs today that resemble the turned chair. Similarly, these modern chairs are designed from forms instead of craving techniques. This allows the chair to appear lighter and more airy. I think chairs like this are good for minimalistic styles and small spaces, although I’m not sure how comfortable they are!

Oak wood usage today

Oak wood was heavily used during the England period, as well as today. Oak is hardwood and makes for great kitchen and bathroom(or anywhere else if you have the money to spend) designs because it is beautiful and durable. Oak is used in many contemporary home designs today. I love the look of oak accents!

One step further 

Christopher Wren

Christopher Wren was an English architect, astronomer, designer, mathematician and physicist. He was considered the greatest architect of this time period by many. Wren designed many secular, royal and religious buildings during this period. He built over 50+ churches in London, with his greatest being St Paul’s Cathedral. The way he took inspiration from so many other places and made them his own is truly astonishing!