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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