Do you long for any retro design elements to make a comeback? Erin Napier believes that the plate rail should return to fashion.
amazing historical house design trends that ought to be revived in modern times
Positioned midway between a chair rail and a picture rail, and often confused with both, this distinctive element took center stage in the early 1900s dining room of one home restored during the first season of HGTV’s “Home Town.” Erin found it captivating, referring to it as “a wonderful historical detail that isn’t included in modern constructions anymore” (according to
HGTV
“I hope they do, since it’s absolutely beautiful,” she mentioned additionally.
She’s correct. Out of all types of wall moldings that previously graced residential interiors, plate rails have struggled the most to endure over time. Even though minimalistic designs have largely removed the decorative allure from many walls in older homes, chair rails—sometimes referred to as dado rails—are still quite prevalent in both renovated and newly constructed properties due to their former popularity. On the other hand, picture rails serve more as an eccentric touch for those who appreciate antique Victorian styles incorporated into contemporary decor. However, when it comes to plate rails, they remain less recognized since they catered to a very specific taste, even at their peak.
Read more:
12 Formerly Popular Kitchen Trends That Are Unlikely to Make a Comeback Any Time Soon
The Exquisite Craftsmanship of the Early 20th Century Plate Rack
If your historic house includes a plate rail running along the walls of the dining area, chances are high that you have acquired an authentic piece from the American Arts and Crafts era. Although various forms of wooden trim were trendy across different design trends during the late 1800s and early 1900s, plate rails stood out as particularly favored by adherents of this movement.
Craftsman-style houses
Predominant along the West Coast, this trend extended the broader British Arts and Crafts movement. It aimed to move away from the ornate extravagances of the Victorian period and the poor quality of mass-produced items during the Industrial Revolution by promoting straightforward, handmade, and practical designs crafted using locally sourced natural materials.
Wood was particularly cherished in interior design, often seen in the form of wainscotting that covered entire walls. Within the dining area, this panelling culminated with the addition of plate rails—structures blending trim work with shelves positioned unusually high, about two-thirds up the wall. These spaces served as showcases primarily for plates but could also feature various smaller decorative items such as ceramics, collectibles, and family treasures. Though stylish plate presentations are currently trending once more, in refurbished Craftsman-style houses, these railings can alternatively highlight artwork, photographs, perhaps even vinyl records, literature, and greenery. This concept remains equally appealing for contemporary constructions; although lacking their original historic importance, they add characterful touches nonetheless.
way to liven up an empty wall
Moreover, many aspects of the custom, craft-oriented ethos of Arts and Crafts houses align well with modern interior design’s focus on sustainability and personalized approaches. So, why not take inspiration from Napier’s suggestion and reintroduce these elements?
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