The 17th century was a time of great cultural and artistic flourishing, and this was reflected in the design and decoration of the living rooms in that era. The living room, or "parlor" as it was often called, was the heart of the home where families would gather to socialize and entertain guests. Let's take a look at the top 10 features that made the 17th century living room truly special.17th Century Living Room: A Glimpse into the Past
17th century living room
The furniture in a 17th century living room was lavish and opulent, reflecting the wealth and status of the homeowner. Elaborate carvings and intricate details adorned chairs, tables, and cabinets, often featuring religious or mythological motifs. The use of dark, rich woods like mahogany, walnut, and oak was also popular during this time.17th Century Furniture: Ornate and Luxurious
17th century furniture
Symmetry was a key element in 17th century interior design, with furniture and decor carefully arranged in pairs or mirrored reflections. This was influenced by the Baroque style that dominated the era, with its focus on grandeur and drama. From matching armchairs to identical candlesticks, symmetry was a hallmark of a well-designed 17th century living room.17th Century Interior Design: A Study in Symmetry
17th century interior design
The 17th century was a time of excess and this was reflected in the home decor of the era. Ornate tapestries, gilded mirrors, and intricate paintings adorned the walls of the living room. The use of bold colors and patterns, such as deep reds and blues, added to the lavish and luxurious feel of the space.17th Century Home Decor: A Feast for the Eyes
17th century home decor
In the 17th century, the fireplace was not only a source of warmth but also a focal point of the living room. It was often the largest and most elaborate feature of the space, with a mantel adorned with intricate carvings and a hearth made of beautiful tiles. The fireplace was also used as a display area for decorative objects, such as vases and figurines.17th Century Fireplace: A Focal Point of the Room
17th century fireplace
Tapestries were a popular form of wall art in the 17th century, adding both beauty and warmth to the living room. These large, woven pieces depicted scenes from history and mythology, and were often made of silk, wool, or velvet. They were a symbol of wealth and were highly prized by homeowners.17th Century Tapestry: A Work of Art on the Wall
17th century tapestry
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The lighting in a 17th century living room was just as important as the furniture and decor. Chandeliers were the most popular form of lighting, with their grand and ornate designs adding to the opulence of the space. They were often made of crystal or brass and were adorned with intricate details and multiple arms for holding candles.17th Century Chandelier: A Grand Lighting Fixture
17th century chandelier
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Religion played a significant role in 17th century life, and this was reflected in the wall art found in the living room. Paintings of religious scenes, such as the Last Supper or the Virgin Mary, were common and served as a reminder of the homeowner's devotion. These paintings were often displayed in ornate frames and hung on the walls as a sign of wealth and status.17th Century Wall Art: An Expression of Faith
17th century wall art
Hardwood floors were a popular flooring choice in 17th century living rooms, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to the space. Oak and walnut were the most commonly used woods, and the floors were often adorned with intricate patterns and designs. These floors were a sign of wealth and were meticulously maintained by the homeowner.17th Century Hardwood Floors: A Touch of Elegance
17th century hardwood floors
Velvet was a highly prized fabric in the 17th century, and it was often used for curtains in the living room. These heavy, rich curtains not only added a touch of luxury to the space but also helped to keep out drafts and retain heat. They were often adorned with tassels and fringes, adding to their opulence. In conclusion, the 17th century living room was a space that exuded wealth, luxury, and grandeur. From the lavish furniture to the opulent decor, every element was carefully chosen to create a space that was both beautiful and functional. Today, we can still see the influence of this era in our own living room designs, as the 17th century continues to inspire and captivate us with its timeless elegance.17th Century Velvet Curtains: A Luxurious Addition
17th century velvet curtains
The Evolution of Living Rooms in the 17th Century
The Main Gathering Space
The 17th century was a time of great change in the world of house design. One of the major shifts that occurred during this time was the transformation of the living room into the main gathering space of the house. In previous centuries, the main living space was often the kitchen, where families would eat, cook, and socialize. However, during the 17th century, the living room became a designated space for entertaining guests and spending quality time with family.
Living Room Design
During this time, living rooms were often designed with a specific theme in mind, such as the Renaissance or Baroque style. These themes were reflected in the furniture, decorations, and overall layout of the room. The furniture in the living room was often ornate and luxurious, with intricate carvings and rich fabrics.
Fireplaces
were also a common feature in living rooms, providing both warmth and a sense of elegance.
The Importance of Symmetry
Symmetry was a key element in 17th century living room design. Furniture and decorations were strategically placed to create a balanced and harmonious aesthetic. This was seen in the arrangement of chairs, tables, and artwork. Even the windows were often symmetrical, with matching curtains and draperies on either side.
Role of Natural Light
Natural light was highly valued in 17th century living rooms. Large windows were often a prominent feature, allowing for plenty of natural light to flood the space. This not only provided a sense of warmth and comfort, but also showcased the wealth and status of the homeowners.
The Rise of Home Entertainment
The 17th century also saw the rise of home entertainment in the form of music, games, and readings. Living rooms were often equipped with musical instruments, such as harpsichords and lutes, for impromptu performances. Games, such as chess and cards, were also popular ways to pass the time. And reading was a common activity, with shelves and cabinets filled with books and manuscripts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 17th century living room was not just a space for relaxation, but also a reflection of societal values and trends. With its emphasis on elegance, symmetry, and entertainment, it set the foundation for the modern living room we know today.
