Medieval room decor is the style of interior design that was popular in Europe during the Middle Ages, the period of time lasting from the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century to the beginning of the Renaissance in the 14th century. Its core function was to create a comfortable and practical living space that reflected the aesthetic and cultural values of the time. One real-world example of medieval room decor can be found in the reconstructed medieval rooms at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, which offer a glimpse into the domestic lives of people living.
The style of medieval room decor was influenced by a number of factors, including the climate, the availability of materials, and the social and economic status of the inhabitants. In general, medieval rooms were small and dark, with low ceilings and few windows. The floors were often made of wood or stone, and the walls were typically plastered or whitewashed.
The transition to the main body of the article could be as follows:
This article will provide an overview of the various elements of medieval room decor, such as the different types of furniture, fabrics, and lighting that were used, as well as the overall design principles that were followed. It will also discuss how medieval room decor varied depending on the region and the social status of the inhabitants.
Medieval room decor was characterized by its use of simple, natural materials and its focus on functionality.
- Natural materials
- Simple furniture
- Tapestries and rugs
- Few windows
- Stone or wood floors
- Plastered or whitewashed walls
- Dim lighting
- Religious iconography
- Social status reflected in decor
Overall, medieval room decor was designed to create a warm and inviting living space that reflected the values and lifestyle of the people who lived in it.
Natural materials
Natural materials were the foundation of medieval room decor. Wood, stone, and wool were the most commonly used materials, as they were readily available and relatively easy to work with. Other natural materials, such as leather, fur, and rushes, were also used to create a variety of furnishings and decorative objects.
- Wood
Wood was the most versatile and widely used material in medieval room decor. It was used to make furniture, such as beds, tables, and chests; structural elements, such as beams and rafters; and decorative objects, such as carvings and sculptures. The type of wood used depended on the region and the availability of resources. Oak, pine, and maple were common choices in Europe, while cedar and cypress were popular in the Mediterranean region.
- Stone
Stone was another important material used in medieval room decor, particularly for flooring and walls. Stone floors were durable and easy to clean, while stone walls provided insulation and protection from the elements. Limestone, sandstone, and granite were commonly used types of stone.
- Wool
Wool was the primary material used for textiles in medieval Europe. It was used to make a variety of items, including bedding, curtains, and tapestries. Wool was also used to make clothing and rugs.
- Other natural materials
Other natural materials, such as leather, fur, and rushes, were also used in medieval room decor. Leather was used to make upholstery, wall hangings, and other decorative objects. Fur was used to make rugs and blankets, while rushes were used to make mats and other floor coverings.
The use of natural materials in medieval room decor created a warm and inviting atmosphere that was in harmony with the natural world.
Simple furniture
Medieval furniture was characterized by its simplicity and functionality. It was typically made of wood, and often had a plain or rustic appearance. This was due to the fact that most people in the Middle Ages were peasants or serfs, and they did not have the resources to purchase elaborate or expensive furnishings.
The most common types of medieval furniture included beds, tables, chests, and benches. Beds were typically made of wood, and consisted of a simple frame with a straw mattress. Tables were also made of wood, and were often trestle tables, which were easy to assemble and disassemble. Chests were used for storing clothes, bedding, and other belongings. Benches were used for seating, and were often made of wood or stone.
In addition to these basic pieces of furniture, medieval homes might also have a few other items, such as a cupboard or a hutch for storing food and dishes. Wealthier families might also have a few pieces of upholstered furniture, such as a chair or a daybed. However, most people in the Middle Ages lived in small, cramped homes, and they did not have a lot of space for furniture.
The simplicity of medieval furniture was also due to the fact that it was often made by the people who used it. Peasants and serfs did not have access to professional furniture makers, so they had to make their own furniture out of whatever materials they could find. This often resulted in furniture that was simple and practical, but also charming and unique.
The simple furniture of the Middle Ages is still popular today, particularly in rustic or country-style homes. Its simple lines and natural materials create a warm and inviting atmosphere that is both timeless and stylish.
Tapestries and rugs
Tapestries and rugs were an important part of medieval room decor. They served both functional and decorative purposes. Tapestries were used to insulate walls and provide privacy, while rugs were used to cover cold stone floors and add a touch of luxury to a room.
- Tapestries
Tapestries were woven wall hangings that were often used to depict scenes from history, mythology, or religion. They were also used to commemorate important events or people. Tapestries were typically made of wool or linen, and they could be very large and elaborate. Some tapestries were so valuable that they were passed down from generation to generation.
- Rugs
Rugs were another important part of medieval room decor. They were used to cover cold stone floors and add a touch of warmth and comfort to a room. Rugs were typically made of wool or animal skins, and they could be very colorful and intricate. Some rugs were even made of silk or other luxurious materials.
- Functions of tapestries and rugs
In addition to their decorative purposes, tapestries and rugs also served a number of functional purposes. Tapestries were used to insulate walls and provide privacy. They could also be used to divide a room into different sections. Rugs were used to cover cold stone floors and add a touch of warmth and comfort to a room. They could also be used to absorb noise and prevent drafts.
- Symbolism and status
Tapestries and rugs could also be used to display the wealth and status of the owner. Wealthy families often had tapestries and rugs that depicted their coat of arms or other symbols of their status. Tapestries and rugs could also be used to commemorate important events or people.
Tapestries and rugs added a touch of beauty and luxury to medieval homes. They also served a number of functional purposes, such as insulating walls, providing privacy, and covering cold stone floors. Today, tapestries and rugs are still used in many homes, and they continue to add a touch of warmth and elegance to any room.
Few windows
Medieval homes typically had very few windows, and those that they did have were usually small and narrow. There are several reasons for this.
- Climate
The climate in Europe during the Middle Ages was much colder than it is today. Winters were long and harsh, and summers were short and cool. As a result, people needed to conserve heat in their homes as much as possible. Having few windows helped to keep the heat in and the cold out.
- Security
Medieval homes were often poorly constructed and easy to break into. Having few windows made it more difficult for thieves and other intruders to enter a home. Windows were also often covered with shutters or bars at night for added security.
- Privacy
Medieval people had a strong sense of privacy. They did not want their neighbors or other people to be able to see into their homes. Having few windows helped to ensure their privacy.
- Building materials
Windows were expensive to make in the Middle Ages. Glass was a luxury item, and it was often used only in churches and other important buildings. Most medieval homes had windows that were made of animal skins or oiled cloth. These materials were not very effective at keeping out the cold or the rain, so people tended to keep their windows closed as much as possible.
As a result of all of these factors, medieval homes were often dark and gloomy. However, people in the Middle Ages did not seem to mind. They were used to living in dark homes, and they found other ways to light their homes, such as candles and torches.
Stone or wood floors
Stone and wood were the most common materials used for flooring in medieval homes. Stone floors were durable and easy to clean, while wood floors were warmer and more comfortable to walk on. The type of flooring used depended on the region, the climate, and the wealth of the homeowner.
Stone floors
Stone floors were common in medieval homes, particularly in areas with cold climates. Stone floors were durable and easy to clean, and they helped to keep the home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Stone floors were also relatively easy to install, as they could be laid directly on the ground or on a bed of sand or gravel. However, stone floors could also be cold and uncomfortable to walk on, especially in the winter. To mitigate this, people would often cover their stone floors with rugs or tapestries.
The most common type of stone used for flooring was limestone. Limestone is a sedimentary rock that is relatively soft and easy to work with. It is also a relatively inexpensive material. Other types of stone that were used for flooring include sandstone, granite, and slate. Sandstone is a sedimentary rock that is harder and more durable than limestone, but it is also more expensive. Granite is an igneous rock that is very hard and durable, but it is also very expensive. Slate is a metamorphic rock that is hard and durable, and it is also relatively inexpensive. However, slate can be slippery when wet.
Wood floors
Wood floors were also common in medieval homes, particularly in areas with mild climates. Wood floors were warmer and more comfortable to walk on than stone floors, and they were also easier to clean. However, wood floors were also more expensive than stone floors, and they were more susceptible to damage from moisture and pests. Wood floors were typically made from oak, pine, or maple. Oak is a hardwood that is strong and durable. Pine is a softwood that is relatively inexpensive and easy to work with. Maple is a hardwood that is hard and durable, but it is also more expensive than oak.
Wood floors were typically installed on a subfloor made of wood or stone. The subfloor helped to level the floor and to provide a solid foundation for the wood flooring. Wood floors were typically laid in a herringbone or parquet pattern. Herringbone is a pattern in which the wood planks are laid in a zigzag pattern. Parquet is a pattern in which the wood planks are laid in a square or rectangular pattern.
Stone and wood floors were the most common types of flooring used in medieval homes. The type of flooring used depended on the region, the climate, and the wealth of the homeowner. Stone floors were durable and easy to clean, while wood floors were warmer and more comfortable to walk on.
Plastered or whitewashed walls
Plastered or whitewashed walls were common in medieval homes. Plaster is a mixture of lime, sand, and water that is applied to walls to create a smooth, even surface. Whitewash is a mixture of lime and water that is applied to walls to create a bright white finish. Both plaster and whitewash were used to protect the walls from moisture and to improve the appearance of the home.
Plaster was typically applied to the interior walls of a medieval home, while whitewash was typically applied to the exterior walls. Plaster was more expensive than whitewash, so it was often used only in the most important rooms of the house, such as the great hall or the lord’s chamber. Whitewash was less expensive and easier to apply, so it was often used in the less important rooms of the house, such as the kitchen or the servants’ quarters.
Plaster and whitewash were both relatively easy to apply. Plaster was typically applied in three coats. The first coat was a rough coat that was used to level the wall and to fill in any cracks or holes. The second coat was a finer coat that was used to smooth out the wall and to create a more even surface. The third coat was a finishing coat that was used to give the wall a smooth, polished finish. Whitewash was typically applied in two coats. The first coat was a thin coat that was used to prime the wall and to help the whitewash adhere to the wall. The second coat was a thicker coat that was used to create the desired white finish.
Plastered or whitewashed walls were an important part of medieval room decor. They helped to protect the walls from moisture and to improve the appearance of the home. They also helped to reflect light, which made the rooms appear brighter and more spacious.
Today, plastered or whitewashed walls are still used in many homes. They are a popular choice for people who want to create a rustic or traditional look in their homes. Plaster and whitewash are also relatively easy to apply and maintain, making them a good choice for do-it-yourselfers.
Dim lighting
Medieval homes were typically dimly lit. This was due to a number of factors, including the lack of electricity, the high cost of candles and oil, and the small size of most medieval windows. As a result, people in the Middle Ages had to rely on creative ways to light their homes.
One common way to light a medieval home was with candles. Candles were made from animal fat, beeswax, or tallow, and they were typically placed in candlesticks or sconces. Candles provided a warm and flickering light, but they were also expensive and smoky. To save money, people often used rushlights, which were made from the pith of rushes dipped in animal fat. Rushlights were much cheaper than candles, but they also produced less light and they burned out quickly.
Another common way to light a medieval home was with oil lamps. Oil lamps were made from clay, metal, or glass, and they were filled with animal fat or vegetable oil. Oil lamps provided a brighter and more consistent light than candles, but they were also more expensive to operate. To save money, people often used cressets, which were simple iron baskets filled with burning pitch. Cressets were cheap and easy to make, but they also produced a lot of smoke and soot.
The dim lighting of medieval homes created a unique and atmospheric environment. It was a world of shadows and flickering lights, where people had to rely on their senses of hearing and smell to navigate their surroundings. This dim lighting also contributed to the sense of mystery and superstition that was so prevalent in the Middle Ages.
Today, we are accustomed to bright and evenly lit homes. However, the dim lighting of medieval homes can still be appreciated for its unique and atmospheric qualities. Dim lighting can create a sense of intimacy and coziness, and it can also be used to highlight specific objects or areas of a room.
Religious iconography
Religious iconography was an important part of medieval room decor. It was used to express the beliefs and values of the people who lived in the home, and to create a sense of sacred space. Religious iconography was found in all types of medieval homes, from the grand castles of the nobility to the humble cottages of the peasantry.
The most common type of religious iconography in medieval homes was the crucifix. Crucifixes were typically made of wood or metal, and they depicted the crucified Christ. Crucifixes were often placed in a prominent location in the home, such as above the fireplace or on the wall behind the dining table. Other common types of religious iconography included paintings, sculptures, and tapestries depicting religious scenes or figures. These works of art were often commissioned by wealthy patrons, and they could be very elaborate and expensive.
In addition to these more formal types of religious iconography, medieval homes also often contained more everyday objects with religious significance. These objects might include rosaries, prayer books, or holy water fonts. These objects were used by the people who lived in the home to pray, to meditate, and to connect with their faith.
Religious iconography played an important role in the lives of medieval people. It was a way for them to express their beliefs and values, and to create a sense of sacred space in their homes. Religious iconography also helped to teach people about the Christian faith, and to remind them of the importance of living a virtuous life.
Today, religious iconography is still used in many homes, although it is not as common as it was in the Middle Ages. Religious iconography can be a beautiful and meaningful way to express one’s faith, and to create a sense of peace and tranquility in the home.
Social status reflected in decor
The decor of a medieval home could also reflect the social status of the people who lived there. Wealthy families could afford to purchase expensive and luxurious furnishings and decorations, while poorer families had to make do with simpler and more utilitarian items.
- Furniture
The type and quality of furniture in a medieval home was a clear indicator of the social status of the occupants. Wealthy families had furniture made from expensive materials, such as oak, walnut, and maple. Their furniture was also often elaborately carved and decorated. Poorer families, on the other hand, had furniture made from less expensive materials, such as pine or ash. Their furniture was also typically plainer and less decorated.
- Tapestries and rugs
Tapestries and rugs were another way to display social status in a medieval home. Wealthy families often had tapestries and rugs that depicted their coat of arms or other symbols of their status. They also often had tapestries and rugs that were made from expensive materials, such as silk or wool. Poorer families, on the other hand, often had tapestries and rugs that were made from less expensive materials, such as linen or cotton.
- Lighting
The type of lighting in a medieval home could also indicate the social status of the occupants. Wealthy families often had candlesticks and oil lamps made from expensive materials, such as silver or brass. They also often had multiple candlesticks and oil lamps in each room, so that their homes were well-lit. Poorer families, on the other hand, often had candlesticks and oil lamps made from less expensive materials, such as iron or clay. They also often had fewer candlesticks and oil lamps in each room, so that their homes were often dimly lit.
- Religious iconography
The type of religious iconography in a medieval home could also indicate the social status of the occupants. Wealthy families often had elaborate and expensive religious iconography, such as crucifixes, paintings, and sculptures. They also often had religious iconography that was made from expensive materials, such as gold or silver. Poorer families, on the other hand, often had simpler and less expensive religious iconography, such as wooden crosses or simple paintings of saints. They also often had religious iconography that was made from less expensive materials, such as wood or clay.
Overall, the decor of a medieval home could provide a clear indication of the social status of the people who lived there. Wealthy families had homes that were filled with expensive and luxurious furnishings and decorations, while poorer families had homes that were more simply and utilitarianly furnished.
