Mission style furniture, with its clean lines, sturdy construction, and emphasis on natural materials, offers a timeless aesthetic that can transform your living room into a sanctuary of warmth and elegance. This style, born in the Arts & Crafts movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, continues to resonate with homeowners seeking furniture that is both beautiful and enduring. This guide will delve into the key characteristics of Mission style living room furniture, helping you understand its appeal and how to incorporate it into your home.
What Defines Mission Style Living Room Furniture?
Mission style is characterized by its simplicity and functionality. Forget fussy details; this style prioritizes clean lines, unadorned surfaces, and a focus on the natural beauty of the wood. Key features include:
- Square and rectangular shapes: Avoidance of curves and ornate details.
- Mission-style wood: Typically crafted from solid oak, but other hardwoods like walnut and cherry are also used.
- Dark wood stains: Often finished with a dark, rich stain that enhances the wood grain.
- Minimalist hardware: Simple, unadorned metal hardware, often in dark bronze or black, is used sparingly.
- Craftsmanship: Hand-crafted quality and attention to detail are paramount. Traditional joinery techniques are often employed, creating strong and durable pieces.
What are the common pieces in a Mission style living room?
A Mission-style living room often features a cohesive set of pieces. Popular choices include:
- Sofa: Deep-seated sofas with simple, straight lines and sturdy frames.
- Armchairs: Matching armchairs that complement the sofa, sharing the same design elements.
- Coffee table: A low, rectangular coffee table with a simple, unadorned design.
- End tables: Matching end tables that flank the sofa, providing convenient surfaces for lamps and other items.
- Bookshelves/Credenza: Tall, rectangular bookshelves or credenzas for storage and display.
Where can I find Mission style living room furniture?
You can find Mission style furniture through a variety of avenues:
- Antique shops and auctions: Finding genuine antique pieces can be a rewarding experience, though they may require restoration and come with a higher price tag.
- Specialty furniture stores: Many furniture stores specialize in Arts & Crafts and Mission style reproductions.
- Online retailers: Numerous online retailers offer Mission style furniture, allowing for convenient browsing and comparison shopping. However, carefully check reviews and ensure the quality matches the description.
Is Mission style furniture expensive?
The cost of Mission style furniture varies greatly depending on the source, materials, and craftsmanship. Antique pieces can be quite expensive, while reproductions offer more affordable options. Higher-quality reproductions using solid wood will generally command a higher price than those using cheaper materials like particleboard or veneers.
How do I incorporate Mission style into my existing décor?
Mission style’s clean lines and neutral color palette make it surprisingly versatile. It can be incorporated into various decor styles, including:
- Modern: The simple lines of Mission style complement contemporary design, creating a sophisticated contrast.
- Rustic: Its natural wood finishes pair beautifully with rustic elements like stone fireplaces and exposed beams.
- Traditional: It offers a less fussy alternative to overly ornate traditional styles, injecting a fresh sense of simplicity.
What are the pros and cons of Mission style living room furniture?
Pros:
- Timeless design: Its enduring style will not go out of fashion.
- Durable construction: Built to last, these pieces can withstand years of use.
- Natural beauty: The focus on natural wood adds warmth and character to any space.
- Versatile style: It can complement a range of decor styles.
Cons:
- Can be expensive: High-quality pieces, particularly antiques, can be pricey.
- May be bulky: The sturdy construction can mean pieces are quite large and not ideal for smaller spaces.
- Requires regular maintenance: Solid wood furniture requires occasional cleaning and conditioning to maintain its appearance.
By understanding the characteristics and versatility of Mission style living room furniture, you can create a living space that reflects your appreciation for quality craftsmanship, simple elegance, and enduring design. Remember to carefully consider your budget, available space, and overall decor style when selecting pieces to ensure a harmonious and inviting living room.
