Hang a print of Louis the XIV in an ornate gilded frame.
The style of "Sun King" Louis the XIV is characterized by ornate pieces of furniture, patterns, materials and gilding. Create an eclectic Louis the XIV bedroom utilizing luxuriant fabrics, decorative furniture and metallic finishes. Mix and match the old with the new to design a balance for the available space. Look to fixed architectural elements you can play up to add a little extra Louis to the room.
Gilding
Gilding became popular under Louis the XIV and may be used to add a pop of gold or silver to different surfaces. For an inexpensive approach, use faux gold leaf to finish an ornate mirror, picture frame or lamp base. Gilding also can be done to furniture, which means you may add a touch of shine to decorative chairs, your headboard, dressing table or architectural features such as trim. If you gild the headboard, repeat the look on a smaller scale elsewhere in the room. For example, gild the drawers of your dresser or a collection of small picture frames on a bedside table.
Arabesque
Choose a modern arabesque pattern to reupholster an antique chair or settee, or paint arabesque patterns on closet doors using a stencil for an accurate pattern. Add shadow boxes to the walls with decorative molding, and wallpaper the inside of the boxes with arabesque designs. Soft blues with gold, white and silver accents do well for this type of room.
Lighting
Further the eclectic theme with a combination of new and old lighting. Center a gold or silver chandelier above the bed. Look for vintage chandeliers that can be or have been rewired, or look for a glamorous modern chandelier. Flank the bed with table lamps with sleek modern lines. Another idea is to add intricate gold or silver sconces to either side of the bedroom door. Have the sconces put on a dimmer to create atmospheric lighting. Add a candelabra to a nightstand or dressing table.
Textiles and Accessories
Fill a modern chaise with a collection of throw pillows in rich jewel tones, with patterns such as arabesques, damask and large-scale floral designs. Choose gold bedding with a tone-on-tone damask pattern. Layer silk curtains with white sheers and a cornice box treatment for a textured look. Browse secondhand stores and flea markets for vintage finds to incorporate into the room. Whether you find knickknacks or other oddities, display them on a mantel, dressing table or bedside table as a finishing detail.
Tags: dressing table, gold silver, bedside table
