Furniture themes are almost always a byproduct of the times they come to fruition in. Hawaiian theme furniture is unique in that it originates from a longstanding theme of culture.
In order to understand Hawaiian Theme furniture, it is necessary to understand a little bit of the history of Hawaii itself. A common misconception one has when hearing the term Hawaiian theme furniture is a vision of tropical islands and hula dancers. This could not be further from the truth. Hawaii was greatly influenced by the Missionaries that came here in the early nineteenth century. The original Hawaiians were decimated by western disease, and the Islands filled with newcomers who came from all corners of the globe.
As the Islands became more settled and westernized, and also wealthier, mostly European craftsmen began producing furniture for both Royalty and the wealthy to furnish the new large homes that were being built. These pieces included everything that was needed because of the great distances involved in imported furniture from Europe or the United States. Tables, chairs, bedroom sets, and cabinets of all kinds were produced locally.
The craftsmen used local woods with one of the most popular types being koa. This wood was rich and beautiful, and yet sturdy. It was a wood that was unknown in the West, and the pieces retained a very distinct look. A bit of the island influence and Hawaiian culture influenced them to some degree. Although the pieces were strongly influenced by the themes popular in Europe at the time, but with subtle changes that tended to soften them, and give them the more flowing lines, and graceful look that was more likely to be associated with the sea and nature.
The pieces that were produced were greatly valued by the people who purchased them. They recognized the influence of their new island home, but the theme also invoked memories of where they had come from, and what they had left behind. People became very attached to these elegant pieces of furniture, and it was not uncommon for pieces to be passed down from generation to generation. Many of the best examples of the classic period of Hawaiian furniture are still owned by the families of their first owners, and rarely come up on the market.
In the present day, Hawaiian theme furniture that keeps true to the original idea of rendering classical European themes in local woods with a touch of island influence is readily available in Hawaii and elsewhere. Most major hotels in Hawaii brag of their rooms furnished with classic Hawaiian furniture. Tourists who expect to find a hammock and mosquito screen in their rooms are going to be in for a big surprise when they first see the beauty of these unique pieces.
Stephan Teak is with FurnitureStoresforyou.com - information on
furniture styles.
