A decorating theme centers on a topic, event or particular subject. Themes
often are used to decorate children’ s rooms, such as a fairy tale princess theme,
an astronaut or space theme, a sports theme or Disney movie theme. On a
more adult level, themes may be nautical or beach house, California vineyard,
farmhouse or 1950s movie sets. The difference between a theme and a style in
decorating is a theme adheres to a cultural concept. A style is characterized by
specific time periods and elements. The 1950s movie set is a theme, while mid-
century modern is a style.
American interior design theme
History
Which came first in interior decorating: themes or styles? Though there is no
definitive answer to this question, the idea of theme decorating dates back to the Romans. Home décor often included altars and statues that allowed residents to praise their local gods. Symbols were painted on doors and walls as protection against evil. These elements were more thematic than stylish. In seventeenth century France, aristocrats decorated their homes in imitation of the King’s own palaces. Though by this time certain interior decorating styles were established, imitation of an existing residence establishes a penchant for thematic decorating.
Types
In contemporary terms, theme decorating takes on a broader connotation. Themes can be a part of a style. In a country-style kitchen, for example, the theme may be apples. The towels, serving ware, the occasional back splash tile will all be decorated with apples. The kitchen itself, with its butcher-block counter-tops and copper kettles, its apron sink and gingham curtains remains country even if the owner decides to change her theme to horses.
Indian contemporary theme
Decorative themes may be more pervasive, though. An “under the sea” theme in a bathroom may include blue walls, ceiling and floor tile, fish shaped soap and a shower curtain with fish and mermaids on it, wallpaper border shaped like sea waves and driftwood shaped towel bars.
Under-sea-theme decor
Themes are often used for holiday decorating, the most obvious being Christmas and Halloween. These themes, though, are usually achieved through accessories and party novelties
Function
Collections such as antique maps or nineteenth century novels can act as a
central theme in decorating. Displaying either collection in an office outfitted
with a roll top desk, wood filing cabinets and Tiffany-style lamps plays to the
theme of the collection.
Tiffany lamp
Personal interests can be expressed through decorating themes. A home owner interested in the space race during the 1960s may decorate a room in artifacts and collectibles from that era relating to the space race. Using mid-century modern furniture and accessories will add to the thematic feel of the room.
Considerations
Theme decorating can be subtle or over the top. The drawback to the pervasive theme in decorating is a complete makeover is required to replace it. In a child’s room, themes are good for only as long as that topic is of interest to the child. Theme decorating, to, can appear hackneyed if done without regard to style. An interest in all things Oriental can make for an interesting Asian style, but when posters of kungfu fighters and plastic samurai swords are hung on the wall, the theme turns into a bad cliche.
Significance
Interior decorating themes can be an enormous aid to decorators and
homeowners. Having a particular concept on which to build can direct the entire
project. When a specific era is chosen, colors and materials popular at the time
can be used or at least copied. A subject such as gardening lends itself to certain
colors and furnishings.
Artistic wall stone decor theme
Themes can also reinforce a particular style. A wine country theme, for example, would give a fresh look to California mission or Santa Fe styles. Using themes in interior design requires a little finesse, but can be the inspiration for unique and personal styles
Interior Decoration Themes 