Sunday, July 27, 2014

Decorating With Porter's Chairs



The Porter's Chair dates back to medieval times in England. This high-backed, canopied chair became popular in 18th Century France where it was called a guérite because it resembled a sentry box or a confessional. It is sometimes also referred to as a Versailles Chair

Would you believe this elegant chair was originally designed for a servant? These stately accent chairs were stationed by the front door of a grande estate or home where a hall porter sat as a gate keeper and allow admittance to the chateau. The chair was designed to envelope and keep the servant relatively warm in his task of remaining at the door for long periods.

Today, Porter's Chairs have become the object du jour in the interior design world with Kelly Wearstler, noted American interior designer and former judge on the television show Top Design, responsible for their popularity. Even furniture stores are offering modern versions of this unique chair.

If you are familiar with the Porter's Chair, just enjoy the pictures. If not, let me introduce you to the Porter. You are in for a treat!


via pinterst

A 16th century Porter's Chair can be a grand statement piece. To me it is the ultimate statement making accent chair.


The Porter's Chair features deep wings continued to form an arch over the seat.


Porters are very distinctive in shape and style, but in different finishes and fabrics can have a completely different impact on a room.


Kelly Wearstler has used Porter's Chairs in a number of rooms she has designed.



Porter's Chairs don't have to be serious. Cover them in a colorful print for a more feminine, romantic chair.


Whether old style or new, Porter's Chairs usually involve tufting.

With the right selection of fabric this classic chair can take on a modern personality.


Here is a Porter's Chair in a more classical and simpler style. It almost looks like the Wingback chair we are familiar with could have evolved from this style chair. 


Porter's Chairs are quite lovely in Transitional interiors.


These Porter's Chairs covered in a quatrefoil pattern are favorites of mine.


A French gilt and grey painter Porter's Chair and a
Louis XVI-Style Giltwood Porter's Chair early 20th century

via pinterest


I love the Porter's Chair for dining purposes. I think they are sensual and crate an intimate space.


Modern designers have been able to take a very "old" shape and turn it into a beautiful piece that fits naturally into more modern interiors..... and even some exteriors. 


Lucina Loya Interiors

via pinterest

There are so many different ways to upholster these Porter's Chairs. Something for every taste.

source unknown

When combined with a plush ottoman or round side table, you can easily create a cozy reading nook. 

google.com

I would love to have this one!!!
Porter's Chairs are being used  in intimate bar and dinner settings as a romantic feature due to its privacy features. The sides and canopy allow for quite a lot of giggling and flirting without others noticing - good call!


A modern version of the Porter's Chair.

restorationhardware.com

via pinterest

Think the Porter's Chair is too classically antique for your modern interior....think again!




Click here to see the previous post

http://eyefordesignlfd.blogspot.com/2014/07/decorating-with-pink-and-yellow.html


This blog post was published by Lisa Farmer

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