Mission Style Furniture

Background Info

The Mission style dates back to late 19th century England and was strongly influenced by the designs of philosopher William Morris. Morris sought to reinstate the traditional quality and craftsmanship in England that had somehow been swallowed up by the sometimes overbearingly ornate style of Victorian furniture. He also felt that true furniture craftsmanship was suffering as furniture makers turned to cheap materials. Americans also sought a more simplistic style during this time period, and thus Mission style furniture was created.

The popular style lasted well into the 1920s, and many Americans and Europeans preferred the sturdy, no-frills, Shaker-like design, decorating their homes and offices with furniture that echoed California's impressive yet unassuming Spanish Mission.

Fall From Grace

By the 1930s, however, modernism overtook the simplicity of the Mission style, and Art Deco became all the rage in interior design. Mission style furniture was banished to basements, unused store rooms, and storage sheds, as Americans and Europeans alike fell for the intriguing and unique modern trends that turned an otherwise traditional room into a piece of eclectic art. This trend lasted until the 1990s, when the Mission style again made a name for itself, gracing the covers of interior design magazines and finding its way out of exile and into homes all over the country.

Mission Style Designers

There are several interior design moguls who are associated with this particular style, including the Stickley brothers, whose company still makes and sells the furniture today. Harry Ellis is another pioneer associated with the Mission style, as well as C.P. Lambert, whose American traditional style is seen in his desks, sideboards, and dining room sets.

What is Mission Style Furniture?

What is Mission style furniture? Depending upon the designer, Mission style furniture can vary in appearance, but common looks and materials include the following:

• Simple lines-Instead of the ornate, carved furniture of the Victorian period, the Mission style incorporates a simple look.
• Rustic appearance-Some Mission furniture takes its inspiration from the American Southwest, featuring exposed joinery and rectilinear lines.
• Color-The Mission style often uses dark-stained oak wood, but it may be given an aged appearance as well. The technique of quarter sawing is often used, which involves sawing the wood in order to enhance the grain's appearance.
• Features-Depending upon the furniture piece, Mission furniture may feature leather upholstery, copper accents, and/or large nail heads.

Interior Design

Choosing to decorate in a Mission style allows you to head in many different directions. *Native American"-The style works well with a Native American motif, and you can add pottery, handmade rugs, etc. to play up the effect.

• American Traditional-You can lean towards a simple, American traditional style, choosing dark woods and adding dark, rich colors to throw pillows, paint, and accessories.
• Casual-If a casual look is what you are aiming for, consider using a neutral palette to enhance the look of your Mission furniture.

Shopping

Finally, shop for the Mission style in furniture stores across the country. You can also search online, but be sure and consider the price of shipping and handling before you place your order. Pay attention to how the furniture is shipped. Will you have to assemble any of it yourself? You should also check out the store's return policy just in case you aren't satisfied with your purchase. The following online stores will give you a preview of various pieces of Mission furniture.

• Barn Furniture Mart
• Strictly Wood Furniture
• Mission Era Furniture
• Gustav Stickley
• Mission Time Designs