Why Is It Called Mission Style Furniture?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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The term mission furniture was first popularized by Joseph P. ... The word mission references the Spanish missions throughout colonial California , though the design of most Mission Style furniture owed little to the original furnishings of these missions.

Why is it called Mission furniture?

Mission style, type of furniture popular in the United States during the turn of the 20th century. ... The first pieces to be called Mission furniture were probably made in New York City in the 1890s and were inspired by the wood furniture of Spanish missions in California .

What is the difference between mission style and Craftsman?

The term “Arts and Crafts” is often used as a general term. ... In the US, “Craftsman” and “Arts and Crafts” were nearly synonymous and are often used interchangeably. “Mission” style, Lee explained, was a term mostly used on the east coast. Like Craftsman, Mission was a trade name but it marketed factory made furniture .

What are the characteristics of Mission style furniture?

  • Handcrafted from oak or quarter sawn white oak.
  • Simple, straight line construction.
  • Often features a medium or dark stain.
  • Heavy and substantial, but well proportioned.
  • Absence of ornamentation.
  • Functional and durable.

What does Mission furniture look like?

Mission style furniture is often described as sturdy, heavy, and even chunky . It’s characterized by straight vertical and horizontal lines, square or rectangular legs and spindles, and durable construction.

Is Mission furniture still popular?

Simple, durable, and functional, mission style furniture emerged in the late 19th century and enjoyed a surge in popularity from about 1900-1915. It came back into vogue in the 1980’s and remains popular today thanks to its sturdy elegance .

Who makes Mission furniture?

Every Mission furniture piece available at AmishOutletStore.com is made in America by Amish craftsmen who consider quality the number one priority.

What is the difference between Shaker and Mission style?

When comparing Shaker and Mission furniture styles, Shaker furniture has a more delicate appearance, with chairs and tables featuring tapered legs . The square legs of Mission-style furniture provide a heavier, more solid look.

What style is Stickley furniture?

In 1898, Gustav formed the Gustav Stickley Company. He formed United Crafts in 1901 and Craftsman Workshops in 1904. While Gustav’s initial designs catered more toward the Art Nouveau style , he eventually simplified and bulked up his designs to create the Mission style by 1900.

Are craftsman and arts and crafts the same?

Arts and Crafts is not Craftsman; it predates Craftsman style by 80 years and began on the other side of the Atlantic. The confusion of American Craftsman style with Arts & Crafts is a common misunderstanding because they have the same roots in William Morris.

What color wood is mission furniture?

Solid red and white oak are the most common wood used in this style; however, cherry and walnut are other popular options. Mission style pieces are rarely seen in a painted or matte finish. Items are usually stained in a darker color with careful attention paid to the grain of the wood.

What is mission style desk?

L -Shaped Desks: L-shaped desks are a suitable choice for people who need a lot of storage and extra table-top space. ... These desks work best in the corner of a room to save space.

What color is mission furniture?

Typically, a Mission-style home is decorated with earth tones like emerald green, russet, and tan , because those colors beautifully complement dark oak Mission furniture. Bright greens, blues, yellows, and reds look stunning in contrast with those more muted hues, but use them sparingly.

How do I identify my furniture mission?

  1. Lines will be simple and straight for the most part, with very few curves and no ornate carving. ...
  2. Elements are most often chunky and flat or squared.

What is Mission Oak style furniture?

Mission style is a design that emphasizes simple horizontal and vertical lines and flat panels that accentuate the grain of the wood (often oak, especially quartersawn white oak).

What is a mission style dining table?

Mission style tables feature sturdy slats and stable legs . Although mission furniture is often made from oak, it comes in a variety of other wood types, as well. The straight lines of this furniture style are known for highlighting the natural grains in the wood.

David Martineau
Author
David Martineau
David is an interior designer and home improvement expert. With a degree in architecture, David has worked on various renovation projects and has written for several home and garden publications. David's expertise in decorating, renovation, and repair will help you create your dream home.