Top 10 Edwardian Classics in Miniature for the Dolls House

1. DRYAD CANE CHAIR

Cane furniture became popular in the UK after Dryad Furniture introduced its own version of this Austrian favourite, made in Leicester. It came in dozens of designs and meant that every home could have its own piece of cottage style. Hand made miniature versions by woven chair expert Mary Rench, each is beautifully intricate and she undertakes commisisons. Website: www.cdhm.org

2. MARQUETRY

Balancing between masculine uncomplicated vertical shapes, and feminine in the form of ostentatious decorationgs, marquetry was one of the favoured methods of adding that decoration to Edwardian furniture. The Dolls House Emporium have a matching plant stand and occasional table, both with inlaid walnut decoration in the centre. Website: www.dollshouse.com

3. W.M. WHITELEY ELECTROLIER

Gas lighting was widespread in Edwardian homes, and the gasolier, a ceiling light with three or more burners, was the thing to have as a status symbol and to give off the most light. By the end of the era, electric lighting was increasing in popularity, and the gasolier was replaced by the electrolier. This example comes from Cobblers Collectables. Website: www.cobblerscollectables.net

4. WOODEN BEDSTEAD

In keeping with the desire for simplicity, the wooden bedstead was found in many homes. A largely undecorated masculine frame was combined with more feminie sheets and blankets to make a pleasing whole. More expensive bedsteads were made of mahogany or walnut, while cheaper versions were painted. Reverie Miniatures dressed beds are ideal for an Edwardian bedroom or nursery. Website: www.reverie.co.uk

5. THONET RUSH CHAIR

Bentwood furniture was revolutionary in seating design and Michael Thonet's patented process of steaming wood to create curves produced an array of designs which became popular througout the 20th century, and particularly in the Edwardian period. These light chairs were stained brown in keeping with the era, and featured fashionable rush seats. These chairs are beautifully made in miniature by Kim Selwood. Website: www.kimselwood.co.uk

6. 'ART PAINTING' FURNITURE

The Edwardians were way ahead of us with their own version of DIY painted furniture. White wood unfinished pieces could be decorated in the home to combine the very latest in hobbies and the vogue designs of the times. These early DIYers added detail using wood crafts such as carving and poker work to copy the style of the big department stores. Jennifers of Walsall stocks several white wood items for you to emulate the Edwardians and decorate to your own style. Website: www.jennifersofwalsall.co.uk

7. LIBERTY DRESSER

One advantage of using electric lighting was that rooms were no longer soot stained from oil or gas. Meaning colour schemes could be much brighter and lighter. The department store Liberty took the lead by including decorated panels, copper, pewter and stained glass in its designs. Miniature artisan Mark Gooch created this intricate dresser. Website: www.goochfurniture.co.uk

8. WHITE WEDGWOOD

9. PARQUET FLOORING

Parquet flooring was a big hit at the time because it was durable and decorative. The hard wood parquet flooring comes in kit from from Jennifers of Walsall and creates a star-shaped flor medallion made from walnut and cherry which will create a 'wow' factor as the centrepiece of any wooden floor. See website address in No. 6 above.

10. DUNCAN DAVENPORT

The Duncan Davenport, also known as the Bradford desk, was made by Pratts of Bradford. An award winning desk which was one of their most successful designs. This one is available in miniature from Little House at the Priory. Please see their website address at No 8 above.

This feature was originally published in Dolls House and Miniature Scene magazine. If you enjoyed the feature why not buy yourself a copy of the magazine, or better still take out a subscription so that you never miss another issue. Don't forget that you can share this feature with your friends on Twitter and/or Facebook by clicking the tabs at the top of the page.

There are several other Design Classic features for you to enjoy here on the website, so please take a moment to browse them:

• Decorative Arts Design Classics Part 1

• Decorative Arts Design Classics Part 2
• 1940's Design Classics

• Modern Design Classics Part 1
  
• Modern Design Classics Part 2
• Victorian Classics - Part 1
• Victorian Classics - Part 2
• Rococo Design Classics
• Regency Design Classics
• Georgian Design Classics
• Tudor Classics
• Gothic Design Classics