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The Gorgeous Feature Erin Napier Wishes Would Make A Comeback In Homes Today
The article discusses Erin Napier's desire for the plate rail to make a comeback in modern home design. Napier, a star on HGTV's "Home Town," highlighted this unique architectural feature during the renovation of a turn-of-the-century dining room. She expressed admiration for plate rails, describing them as "gorgeous" and lamenting their absence in contemporary homes, noting that they represent a historical touch that has largely fallen out of style. The plate rail is often confused with chair rails or picture rails but occupies a distinct position on the wall, typically two-thirds of the way up, differing in both placement and function.
Historically, plate rails were a prominent element, particularly within the American Craftsman style of architecture, which gained popularity on the West Coast and derived from the British Arts and Crafts movement. This movement emphasized handcrafted quality, natural materials, and functional design, moving away from the ornate aesthetics of the Victorian era and the mass production of the Industrial Revolution. Wood was a favored material, frequently used for wainscoting, with plate rails serving as a decorative and practical cap for these wall panels in dining rooms. Their primary purpose was to display decorative plates, pottery, and other small family heirlooms, showcasing artisanal craftsmanship and personal touches.
Unlike chair rails, which remain common in both restored and new homes, and picture rails, which appeal to vintage Victorian enthusiasts, plate rails are less known due to their more niche historical application. However, the article suggests that they offer significant potential for modern repurposing. In updated Craftsman-era homes, plate rails can be used to display various items such as art, photographs, vinyl records, books, or plants, adding personality to otherwise blank walls. For new constructions, while they may lack historical context, they still provide a unique design element that can enhance a room's character.
The philosophy of the Arts and Crafts movement, with its focus on bespoke, artisanal quality and sustainable practices, resonates with current interior design trends that prioritize tailor-made and environmentally conscious choices. Therefore, reintroducing plate rails aligns with a broader contemporary appreciation for craftsmanship and personalized home environments. The piece advocates for embracing Napier's recommendation to revive this beautiful and functional architectural detail, integrating its historical charm with modern living spaces to create unique and character-filled interiors.
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