British colonial plantation furniture, whether theybe original antiques, quality replicas, or newer pieces inspired by classic design, sets an undeniably formal yet evocative tone for the home. You might opt to lighten the look with tropical accents and neutral textiles or add to the classic aesthetic with ornate and formal furnishings, finishes and accessories.
Create a stunning backdrop for a British Colonial theme with elaborate architectural elements and design features. A portico or framed porch, typifies the style. You can allude to this tradition by adding a lightweight plaster relief around a doorway or you might like to consider columns, dark wood panelling, ceiling medallions, elaborate painted or carved trims and plantation shutters for true authenticity.
Integrate furnishings and accessories that feature the original woods from this era in history. Look for pieces crafted from teak, mahogany and rosewood. Medium to dark stains work best to evoke the look and it’s easy to recreate the British colonial appreciation of Indian craftsmanship by including elaborately carved or hand painted Indian furnishings. Gilded elements adds a fussy British element and for true style in British Colonial bedroom settings hunt down an original dark stained wooden bedstead or a classic reproduction. Victorian iron beds will also find a receptive home here and were frequently exported along with all the other furnishings and fixtures that made up a colonial “home from home”.
Complement the look with other focal point furnishings reminiscent of classic 19c British décor. Built in bookcases with ladders, niches and shelves lend a landing, hallway or office the feeling of a British colonial library, whilst chairs in the Sheraton and Chippendale styles introduce classic style to an empty corner of a lounge or bedroom. In larger bedrooms a majestic iron or wooden four poster bed adds glamour and unmatched presence with a vintage steamer trunk at the foot end reflecting the British colonial penchant for adventure and world travel.
Finish the look with paintings, drawings or prints in ornately engraved wooden frames, and include some botanical, floral and animal inspired prints that were popular throughout the era. Illuminate the scheme with natural light and period light fixtures to add an authentic touch. Bedside table lamps, chandeliers and wall sconces work better within this décor style than overhead lighting which is invariably too stark and unforgiving. And keep the mood a little lighter if desired with textiles. On the bed this is a great contrast for darker woods or finishes and white and cream linens are the perfect counterpoint. Continue the theme to window treatments also, with sheer fabrics and plain or very simple patterns that enables natural light to flood the room for an airy feel and pleasing contrast with more formal aspects of the British Plantation Colonial style…


