Originally, tapestries were used as representations of historical events, representations of family images, and a way to prevent cold from seeping through stone walls. Today they are not needed for literal insulation, but their variety of colors and textures still serve to warm a room. There are so many styles to choose from and you can’t go wrong adding a tapestry to your home decor.
A large room with a blank wall can be livened up with a large tapestry hung horizontally as a backdrop to a sofa or bed. A smaller room can benefit from a long vertically hung tapestry to divide the space and draw the eye upward, making the ceiling appear higher and the room larger. Smaller rugs are great for conversation starters or to fit in that corner of the stairwell.
Tapestries solve frustrations
For modern open floor plans, wall hangings can be the perfect answer for a frustrated decorator. The effect of angled walls can be minimized with a tapestry and white space is accounted for in one step. Tapestries are equally appropriate for the family estate or a bachelor pad, fitting into a study or six-bedroom farmhouse with ease and an undeniable sense of completeness that can tie the entire décor theme together.
When choosing a tapestry for your own home, consider the size of the space and the amount of light. A room with a large wall facing several windows can accommodate a large tapestry in rich, dark colors. A secluded interior room, such as a dark paneled library, could benefit from smaller pieces and brighter colors.
A bedroom is the perfect place for a tapestry, as the warmth they bring can blanket the space with serenity and calm. Comforting scenes like angels or other religious themes are preferred for this type of use. Blues and golds can be reflected in the bedspread and pillows to provide a restful escape. Soft pale sheets and muted curtains complete the look and ensure a peaceful aura.
Hunting scenes are popular themes for tapestries and work just as well in a den as they do in a hunting lodge. Exterior colors in varying shades of brown and green go well with almost any décor. These can bring a sense of quick movement and vibrancy to an otherwise staid room. Horses and foxhounds are a favorite, as are deer, elk, and other animals in flight or perched on clearings or cliffs.
Different styles for different settings
When in doubt, a landscape can be used for a muted effect in an ornate room, as a backdrop for Victorian or French furniture. A wild floral pattern can brighten up a bland room with a pop of color. Shades of green or purple can bring out the jewel colors in the pillows on a stark sofa. Make a statement with the tapestry of your choice; use it as the focal point of your entire decorating scheme!
Consider bold geometric designs to complement a sleek modern apartment. Native American and Celtic designs can add sparkle to what could be a cold atmosphere. Many tapestries from India or South America have intricate patterns that draw the eye, and early American themes based on quilt patterns can also be found.
Don’t think that tapestries are just for dramatic effect in big, expensive homes. You can use smaller sizes to great effect as accent pieces in bright, open apartments. Asian representations of dragons or birds provide interest and can add character to even a small breakfast nook or hallway.
tapestries for each room
Even kitchens can benefit from a narrow wall hanging that runs horizontally at head height to divide an open space, or a small one hung in front of cabinets. Brightly colored fruits and flowers can breathe new life into a drab kitchenette. Horizontal wall hangings are also good to hang above bay windows or along a hallway to relieve monotony.
Tapestries can be hung in hallways to add a rich touch and bring out subtle colors on tile or marble floors. A wide tapestry hanging in one corner can make a great background for a chair or sofa to pass out on. You can also hang tapestries to cover cracked plaster or consider using one to mask a poorly placed window.
Whether you choose a floral Indian motif or rich Renaissance design, a stylized dragon from the Orient or a French hunting scene, tapestries are sure to brighten your home and enrich your décor. Use them to embellish and enhance your own style, and enjoy the warmth they bring to your personal space.
