The History of Interior Design

No one knows how the history of interior design actually began. There is ample evidence however, that all through history, the wealthy people did decorate their homes and have elaborate furniture. In the homes of the ancient Egyptians, for example, there were brightly colored cushions and textiles. The ceilings and the wooden columns used for supporting the roofs were also brightly colored. The ancient Romans had rooms in their homes that were carefully planned according to their use and the view. They often had separate living rooms for winter and summer. Wall decorations, furniture and accessories were decorated and made with great artistic skill. 

The history of interior design, as we now know it, began with the Italian Renaissance. The palaces of this period were luxuriously decorated with ornate furniture, velvet draperies, Oriental carpets, intricately designed mirrors and works of art. The seventeenth and eighteenth centuries were outstanding periods of interior design in France. The names of the rulers of the time were so taken up with the decorations and furniture of their palaces that their names have even been given to pieces of furniture. 

After the Industrial Revolution, the history of interior design shows that as the members of the middle class began to earn more money, they, too, began to decorate their homes. Magazines began to focus on new styles of interior design increasing the need for advice on home furnishings and decorating ideas. This led to the development of the interior design industry. There are thousands of people who have become professionals at designing the décor for private homes and office buildings. There are also many people who do interior design as a hobby and give free advice or spend their time decorating their own homes.

The history of interior design documents the success of many leading home decorators. Generally, they make their profit by purchasing the materials at wholesale prices and charging a fee for the services they provide. Many painting supply stores now have an interior design specialist on their payroll to help customers select paint colors and draperies that are eye catching and compliment the furniture in a particular room. 

The history of interior design is constantly changing as new ideas take hold and new types of materials are developed to accentuate the home.