If you have returned from Egypt with a collection of ankhs or yearn to turn your space into something more regal and palatial, Egyptian style is for you. Before diving into this design theme, however, note that you have a few options. You can integrate antiques and handicrafts from Egypt, which is the most expensive option. Another choice is to buy reproductions of Egyptian artifacts. Finally, you can use faux finishes, architectural elements, furnishings, fixtures and accessories that reflect an Egyptian influence, regardless of their actual origin. Does this Spark an idea?
Effects
Egyptian decor transforms the home into a gallery-like setting, featuring elaborate backdrops for eye-catching pieces. Ornately finished walls, often featuring yellow or gold, set the stage for framed paintings, statues on pedestals and sculpted furniture. The tone is definitely formal, but there are modifications you can use to make the look more casual. Scatter patterned floor cushions around a carved coffee table or cover a bed in throw pillows of different sizes and patterns.
Features
Begin with a palette of bold black and gold, and add furniture and accessories that feature stone and marble finishes. Furniture and architectural elements are elaborately designed. Keep an eye out for details such as scrolled wood, bronze hardware, vintage-style hardware, curled wrought iron, hand-painted borders and marble insets. Deep and rich colors are predominant, as are heavyweight building materials.
Considerations
Pulling off a full Egyptian-style home is a tall order. If you want to go smaller-scale, try decorating a living room in an Egyptian theme or dedicate a corner to a gallery-like display of Egyptian artifacts and accessories. You can choose a single piece of furniture, like an elaborate chaise longue that recalls Cleopatra, and create a dramatic backdrop with a papyrus scroll or hand-painted hieroglyphics. Fill a black lacquer bookcase with statues of Egyptian gods placed on pedestals or hang a painting of Egyptian architecture in a museum-style gold frame.
Size
Homes with small and dark interior rooms are not as suited for Egyptian decor. Egyptian furniture tends to be heavyweight, meaning it cannot be easily moved. Large, open floor plans are ideal, as are rooms with high ceilings and wide doorways, because they can better accommodate the bold colors and prominent size of Egyptian furnishings.
Potential
For people designing on a grand scale, look to buildings and museums that are examples of Egyptian revival architecture. Chicago's Reebie Storage Warehouse has been made a national landmark for its authentic re-creation of hieroglyphics and plaster relief artwork. Other buildings feature columns, pyramids, sconces, obelisks, Egyptian bridges, bath houses, statuary and arches reminiscent of or influenced by ancient Egypt.
Tags: accessories that, architectural elements, Egyptian artifacts, Egyptian decor, from Egypt
