Friday, March 2, 2018

Add Northern European Charm with Antiques

Although this is a French Country decor blog,
I do appreciate styles from other countries such as Sweden, Denmark and Norway.
Many of these pieces mix well with French Country like the fabulous Mora clocks,
natural wooden tables and white-painted cupboards.



So, if you're ready to go north, wrap up in a warm throw, grab a cup of hot chocolate
and join me as we visit Northern Europe.

Northern European decor is actually a mix of several styles but they all have a few things in 
common -- an appreciation of natural wood and nature, pure simplicity of form and function, 
and a welcoming ambiance that evokes a sense of antiquity.
These attributes all help create a charming home with European grace. 


I recently visited a beautiful store called Scandinavian Antiques in Denver. 
Henrik and Mary, the owners, graciously allowed me to photograph the antiques in their store. 
Here's a link to their fabulous store:  Scandinavian Antiques  Enjoy!


Although this post is more about Northern European style, the southern countries of Italy, 
Spain and the south of France certainly have their own special style that I also adore. 
French style, in particular, has greatly influenced many other countries' decor,
making these antiques easily adaptable to various looks from fancy to rustic. 


One of my favorite pieces of furniture to come out of the Nordic countries, 
specifically Sweden, is the Mora clock. 
The name was derived from the town of Mora, Sweden 
where the clock was built in the late 18th and 19th centuries. 
Its timeless appeal makes it a dramatic focal point in any setting. 
I love its elegantly feminine shape.


European countries are much older than the U.S., so their antiques proudly show their age 
with a bit of soft wear and tear. While German pieces are often intricately painted,



Scandinavian antiques are often either bare wood or painted in neutral colors 
of pale blue, cool gray, white or cream.


This style projects a unique combination of gracious warmth and formality that makes 
you feel like you're a guest in a grand old European estate. 
With a roaring fire in a massive fireplace or a smaller stuccoed one built into a corner,
the feeling is warm and cozy. 


Because northern Europe's skies offer little sunlight during a long winter, people try to capture 
as much light as possible in their homes with white walls and lots of bare windows. 
Painting floors white also makes rooms feel open, light and airy. 
White linen curtains allow light to pass through.


Textured walls and fabrics complement the natural feeling while  
pillows, rugs and paintings provide bright accents that keep the mood fresh and lively. 


This large reproduction clock has that European flavor,
providing a good example of how antiques and reproductions, new and old, mix well. 


This French Country corner cabinet, my favorite piece, would look great
in any home (especially mine!)


It's easy to enjoy the warmth and charm of Northern European antiques in your home.
So think about how you might incorporate a few Nordic pieces into your decor.
Skal!

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Linking with:
Shabby Art BoutiqueBlue Willow  Little FarmsteadDwellingsThe Dedicated House,
Between Naps on the PorchCoastal CharmStone GableA Stroll Thru Life,
Savvy Southern StyleDesignthusiasmA Delightsome LifeHave a Daily Cup of Mrs. Olson,
21 Rosemary LanePetite HausFrench Country Cottage

9 comments:

  1. Those are some beautiful pieces. Gustavian style, so trendy again now, is from Swedish King Gustav III, who translated what he saw on a visit to Versailles into a time-defying Swedish look. The whites and grays come from him. At the same time, it's clear that different countries took influences from each other. Creativity knows no borders.

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  2. Very wonderful pieces thanks for the fun tour , my favorite piece is the large white cupboard I need that lol! Lisa@ Sweet Tea N' Salty Air

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  3. My favorite piece is the little white cupboard you want in YOUR house! lol

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  4. I would love to have one of those clocks or that white corner cabinet. Thanks for allowing us to come on this fun shopping trip, i love these and all the things you share. Have a great weekend.

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  5. Ohhhh, I would love to visit this store. The little white cabinet would look lovely in your home.

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  6. Thank you so much for sharing at Snickerdoodle.

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  7. I love this style. There is a beautiful store on Charles Street in Boston that if full of Danish antiques. I love to spend an hour or so in there when I get the chance.

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  8. Wow! The clocks are to die for! Loved them. Thanks for sharing! Leticia

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  9. Loved the tour Pat! The white clocks made my heart skip a beat. There is something about this style that is so appealing and timeless. Love the sheep painting too. Thanks for sharing with SYC.
    hugs,
    Jann

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