Go for Baroque!

February 1, 2010 · Posted in Interior design trends

Baroque is a design aesthetic of the latter part of the Renaissance, characterized by complex forms and elaborate decorative detail. Baroque style furniture and decor elements have made their way into many homes over the past few years, and the design concept still seems to draw quite a few “oohs and aahs”. When one or two baroque elements are paired with more modern design the result can be breathtaking. Wondering how you can go baroque in your own home? Here are a few tips from the Vastu interior design team…

Buy a baroque or Victorian-era chair from a second hand shop, spray paint (with car paint) the frame silver or gold, then reupholster the back in one fabric and use a different textile on the front.
Instead of painting an accent wall, wallpaper an accent wall in a baroque style paper similar to the one shown above from Designers Guild. Look for similar bold patterns on fabrics for items such as pillows.
Trade an existing pendant fixture for a more extravagant, intricate chandelier – perhaps with gold and/or silver ornamentation.
Look for furniture pieces, especially tables, that have large, bulbous legs.

Vastu’s NYC-based interior designer, Krissy, cautions…

When mixing modern and baroque keep in mind that a little goes a long way! An ornate chandelier, a dramatic large scale pattern wall paper, and some bulbous table legs will do the trick. The rest of the lines should be clean and modern. Consider finishes like white lacquer, lucite or other reflective surfaces to keep the space light and modern.

What do you think about this style?