Decorating Irish Style

America’s admiration for Ireland and the Irish knows no bounds. We absolutely love everything Irish. When St. Patrick’s Day comes, virtually everyone in the United States is Irish for a day. For us it is neither a religious nor political day– it’s simply a time to celebrate our affection for Ireland. When it comes to interior decor the Irish style is right at home in America. Something of a mix between American Country style and European vernacular style, Irish style in the States is comfy and fun.

Here are a few ideas of how you might bring the easy Irish style into your home:

Lace – Lace curtains are not seen much in America, but they are a delight of the Irish style. Carry the lace on towards the dining table. A lace tablecloth and even place mats will look lovely. If you want a more antique character for your home, consider using ivory off white laces, instead of crisp white.

Furniture – Here you can mix and match your old pieces, as well as a few classic new ones. Pursue the impression that the furniture has been collected over generations and you’ll be right on target.

Pattern – It’s okay to do more mix and matching here. Seek fabrics that are calm and weathered, and not extremely bright or too very bold.

China – A dishware pattern that has survived for centuries in Ireland is Blue Willow. You need not go on the hunt for antique pieces. You can buy the same pattern today at stores in Ireland and America. The blue and white oriental design comes with a story of true romance about the characters and objects shown in the Blue Willow pattern.

Accessories – The Irish love of language makes books the perfect accent accessory. Leather bound or hard bound, you want them to be a quiet part of the background of the room, and not the central objects.

Colors – Whilst green is the ‘typical’ Irish color, don’t go overboard with it! Sometimes less is more Other colors that fit in well with an Irish interior design style are blue and all creme and beige tones and even brown as an accent.