Some popular wall treatments for Federal Colonial houses include:
1. Wainscoting: Wood paneling installed on the lower half of the walls, often with a chair rail dividing it from the upper portion of the wall.
2. Wallpaper: Intricate patterns or designs in rich colors were commonly used to adorn the walls in Federal Colonial houses. Floral patterns or geometric designs were popular choices.
3. Plaster: Smooth plaster walls were a common feature in Federal Colonial houses, often finished with a decorative cornice or molding at the ceiling.
4. Stenciling: Intricate stenciled designs were often used to embellish wall borders or as decorative elements throughout the room.
5. Paint: Neoclassical colors such as soft pastels or muted earth tones were commonly used in Federal Colonial homes. Popular colors included shades of blue, green, pink, cream, and warm grays.
6. Paneling: Raised or recessed wood paneling, known as boiserie, was a popular wall treatment in formal rooms of Federal Colonial houses. The panels were typically painted or stained in a rich, deep color.
7. Faux finishes: Decorative paint techniques such as marbling or graining were sometimes used to mimic the appearance of expensive materials like marble or exotic wood.
8. Moldings and trim: Elaborate crown moldings, baseboards, and door casings were often used to add architectural interest and detail to the walls of Federal Colonial houses.
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