In recent years we’ve seen a resurgence of a popular style and fabric pattern: Chinoiserie. Chinoiserie is a unique and beautiful decor style that has been popular for centuries. It’s inspired by Chinese art and culture, and when used in the home, it has a luxurious,...
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Design History Articles
What Is a Slipper Chair? Everything to Know About This Design Classic
Have you ever heard of a slipper chair? If not, don’t fret—we’re here to give you a crash course in slipper chair 101. The classic slipper chair is a timeless piece that has been around for centuries, and still remains popular to this day. Whether used as an accent...
Modern vs. Contemporary Furniture: What’s The Difference?
The thesaurus isn’t always your friend in the design world. When it comes to different styles, specificity counts — and just because one thing sounds like another, doesn’t mean the two are interchangable. Case in point? Modern design vs. contemporary design: Two...
What Furniture Styles Are American? 7 Key Eras to Know
One of the best things about personal style is that you can draw inspiration from all parts of the world and all time periods. If your style errs on the traditional side (maybe the term “grandmillennial” resonates?), then you might find yourself drawn to English or...
What Are Traditional Furniture Styles? 7 Characteristics to Look Out For
From so-called "Grandmillennial" design to the relaxed traditionalist style trend, it's clear that traditional furniture styles are making an inevitable comeback. But as the name implies, traditional furniture and traditional style at large has never been concerned...
Modernism vs. Art Deco Furniture
Spotting the difference between Art Deco and Modernism styles can be tricky. There’s a lot of overlap both in terms of timing and even designers and artists who moved from one style to the next as their personal design styles evolved over time. Fret not - by the end...
Harlem Toile De Jouy: The History Behind the Pattern
Discover the inspiration and personal stories behind the iconic pattern, Harlem Toile, as designed and told by world-renowned designer Sheila Bridges. There are a few patterns in recent history that have already cemented their legacy as...
What is Art Deco Furniture?
You may have noticed the craze for dramatic interiors decorated with furniture containing geometric patterns, naturalistic motifs and muted colors often in a chrome finish. These furnishings and interiors are constantly making an appearance on television, at the...
Harlem Toile: In Sheila’s Words
After many years searching for the perfect Toile for her own home, Sheila Bridges decided that it quite simply didn’t exist, so she created it. Harlem Toile rewrites the iconographic narrative of a classic decorating staple and challenges constructs of representation...
What is Upholstered Furniture?
It’s more likely than not that you’ve sat on – if not owned – quite a bit of upholstered furniture. It’s cushioned, soft and versatile, not to mention found in just about any living space, from the bed to the dining chairs to the sofa. But if you’re like us, you may...