Monday, February 20, 2012

The Canadiana Series - Part I

Canadian style...what exactly is it? Depending on whom you ask, it may mean different things to different people. For me, Canadian style is as eclectic as the people who live here and the nature, beauty and animals all around. But there are some definite pieces that scream signature Canadian style:

1. Hudson's Bay Company is Canada's oldest business. It started as a fur-trading company and has established itself into a high-end brand honoring Canadian sensibilities and tastes. The signature black, red, green and yellow stripes are as familiar to Canadians as maple syrup and poutine! Cottage life is what many Canadians live for all around, whether it's swimming in the summer or skiing in the winter. We cherish all seasons (even when we're forty feet in snow!)
2. A rustic, outdoorsy feel that is warm, inviting and comfortable. With so much beauty and a vast amount of space to boot, us Canadians love the outdoors. So we bring that indoors, too!
3. Antler heads -- whether they're deer heads or moose heads as shown in the photographs above -- are popular around the globe, but they're fitting in Canada because, well... we have moose. And deer. And we're proud of it!
4. A blending of cultures. Whether we go back to our Native American roots or pay tribute to our English and French bilingualism, pairing all three makes for a stunning design combination. I love the patterns in the bottom left photo because they're reminiscent of Native American designs (especially the ottoman) with a European flare. 

So what's Canadian style to you? If you're not from Canada, what do you think of? What's the style like in your own country and how does it differ from the rest of the globe? I'd love to hear your thoughts!

2 comments:

  1. Awesome round-up and thoughts on Canadian design! Love the photos. We do have a blend of cultures don't we? I also think we love to embrace the outdoors in our designs. I know at least in the west that is reflected in the interiors! After living in the southern US for a while, where their designs are big, bold and ornate, it was refreshing coming back to the western design aesthetic where colours are muted and decor is simple!

    Thanks for the comment on the blog and the follow. I am following back!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks for your lovely comment, Barbara. I'm glad you were inspired by some home-grown Canadiana! Hope to connect more with you in the future :)

      Delete