Georgian Decorating Style (1714-1837)

Georgian style has a history spanning a century under the reign of three kings all named George (1714-1837). It can be divided into three periods: Palladian, Early Georgian and Late Georgian. Its simplicity, symmetry and soft, light airy feel were a reaction against the opulent and overwhelming style of Baroque. As the style developed, the colour schemes became gradually lighter and furniture became more delicate and sophisticated. Muted, natural colours like cream, ivory, grey, pale blue, pale green, pastel pink and yellow were the most popular choice.

What is immediately noticeable is the inspiration taken from ancient Greece and Rome. Main features of Georgian interior decoration include fabric wallpapers in muted cream colours and painted wood panelling on the walls. Other features are sash windows adorned with ample curtains, plaster moulding walls and ceilings with eagles, ribbons, classical figures, urns, scrolling foliage and masks. Rooms were often divided by pillars in shape of Doric, Ionian, Corinthian or Tuscan style columns.

Furniture meanwhile was influenced by Palladian, Rococo and Neo-Classical designs. Wingback chairs and side tables with classical, simple lines were typically used alongside big mirrors in decorative frames and chandeliers with multiple arms. Sofas and armchairs were strewn with cushions and fabrics embroidered with patterns influenced by Chinese motifs like peonies and chrysanthemums.

The centre piece and focal point of the living room was usually a fireplace with marble surrounds, often flanked by classical pillars with shelf mantelpieces for displaying decorative objects and family souvenirs. The fireplace usually had elegant cast iron backs and a painted fire screen.

In most Georgian interiors, you could find built-in bookcases and cupboards with glass panels. Oriental rugs covered marble flooring, and rooms were often decorated with various trinkets, fans, porcelain and pictures hung in groups.

One of the turning points for Georgian furniture design was importation of mahogany that started in 1720. The use of mahogany changed the production of furniture and contributed to renovation of wood carving, just like the arrival of paraffin resulted in breakthroughs in lighting design.

There were a few distinguished designers that rose in the late Georgian Period, known as the “The Golden Age of Furniture”. Chippendale (1745-1780) designs often utilised rococo motifs and characteristic cabriole legs with carved feet. Adam Brothers (1760-1792) mainly created exclusive sideboards, cabinets and tables for their wealthy customers. Hepplewhite (1760-1790) meanwhile customized Adams’ designs to suit the needs of the middle classes.

Today, after 300 years, the Georgian style is praised for its elegance, lightness and airy feel, which still inspires interior designers.