Organizing a Prairie School Mansion house requires a thoughtful approach to preserve the architectural style while maintaining functionality. Here are some tips to help you in organizing a Prairie School Mansion house:
1. Understand the architectural style: Familiarize yourself with the principles and features of the Prairie School architecture. This will give you a better understanding of the design elements and layout choices made by the architect, allowing you to respect the original intent while organizing the space.
2. Embrace open floor plans: One of the defining characteristics of Prairie School houses is open, flowing spaces. Avoid dividing rooms into smaller, isolated areas. Instead, use furniture and other elements to create distinct functional zones while maintaining an overall open feel.
3. Highlight horizontal lines: The Prairie School style emphasizes horizontal lines to create a sense of unity with the surrounding landscape. Emphasize these lines by arranging furniture and décor along horizontal axes. Incorporate long, low-profile furniture to complement the style.
4. Display simple, natural materials: Prairie School architecture emphasizes natural materials such as wood, brick, and stone. Choose furniture and décor that reflect these materials. Use simple, clean-lined furniture with exposed grains and textures.
5. Maximize natural light: Allow ample natural light to enter the space to enhance the airy feel of a Prairie School house. Use sheer curtains or blinds that can be opened fully during the day. Avoid blocking windows with large furniture or heavy drapery.
6. Incorporate built-in storage: Prairie School houses often feature built-in cabinets, shelving, and other storage elements. Maintain the authenticity of the house by maximizing these built-in storage options for a seamless integration. Consider adapting modern storage solutions to match the architecture when necessary.
7. Respect the original color palette: Prairie School architecture typically employs an earthy color palette. Consider these colors when choosing paint, furnishings, and accessories. Stick with warm earth tones, muted hues, and natural colors to maintain the style's integrity.
8. Group furniture and create cozy conversational areas: Prairie School houses often include well-defined conversation areas to facilitate social interactions. Arrange furniture in a way that encourages conversation and intimacy. Group seating around focal points such as fireplaces or built-in features.
9. Pay attention to details: Prairie School architecture often includes intricate woodwork, geometric patterns, and decorative elements. Incorporate these details into your organization by accessorizing with complementary geometric-shaped decorative items, textiles, and artwork.
Remember, the key is to strike a balance between preserving the architectural integrity of the Prairie School Mansion house while meeting contemporary needs for functionality and organization.
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