What is Regency Style Furniture?

Here at Chairish, we’re ardent Hollywood Regency fans. Yet we don’t often touch on Hollywood Regency’s predecessor — Regency. With the passion for period dramas at an all-time fever pitch, it seems timely to delve into the ins and outs of Regency style furniture. What is Regency style furniture and how has it evolved in recent decades? Read on to find out!

When Was the Regency Furniture Period?

The Regency period relates to the first thirty years of the 19th century. The movement primarily took place in England. The Regency period was renowned for its developments in the decorative arts, which were heavily influenced by the era;s archeological discoveries. Namely, these discoveries included Greek and Roman antiquity, as well as Egyptian architecture.

What Are the Traits of Regency Furniture?

Regency style furniture, especially Regency tables, typically posses simple concave curvature (usually seen in the legs) and flat surfaces and facades. In addition to curving, concave legs, column-style legs are popular, as are x-shaped legs. Unlike the Baroque and Rococo pieces, which feature heavy embellishment, Regency pieces generally feature more limited ornamentation. Common adornments include applied brass claw feet, brass drop-pull handles (often adorned with lion or cherub faces), and brass or wood stretcher finials. The majority of Regency furniture features dark wood. Mahogany was an extremely popular choice for Regency chairs, tables, and cabinets as were rosewood and zebrawood.

What is the Connection Between Regency and Hollywood Regency?

There is in fact little connection between Regency and Hollywood Regency style. While it’s true that Hollywood Regency designers like Dorothy Draper occasionally incorporated Regency-era antiques into their spaces, the movements pander to vastly different aesthetics. Whereas Regency focuses on classical and refined design, Hollywood Regency is more concerned with harboring a youthful playfulness. In truth, Hollywood Regency has more ties to Art Deco and Mid-Century Modernism than anything else.

What Makers Specialize in Regency Reproductions?

Given that authentic Regency-era furniture is upwards of two hundred years old, an authentic piece will definitely cost you. Thankfully, Regency furniture experienced a revival in the late 20th century. In the 1980s and 90s, makers like Baker Furniture Company and Henredon heavily specialized in these reproductions. Other vintage makers who have tackled the style include Maitland-Smith, Stanley Furniture and Kittinger.