American Empire Dresser adds a masculine touch
Published Jun 7th, 2009 | Written by Minta Interiors | Photography by Hickory Chair

The American Empire style of furniture falls under the heading of Classical Style, which gained popularity in the early nineteenth century. Simple yet sometimes massive curves, the use of dark woods such as mahogany and decorative motifs like the acanthus leaf, lyre and rosette are all hallmarks of this design. Brass accents in the form of drawer pulls and leg caps were common. Hickory Chair has interpreted this style in a simplified and more modern way in the design of their American Empire Tall Dresser.

This dresser is crafted in rustic cherry and available in a standard American Antique finish. However, Hickory Chair offers over 30 finishes to choose from allowing you to coordinate with other pieces in your furniture collection. Even the brass hardware can be changed. It stands just 56 inches high and is 42 inches wide. In spite of its relatively narrow size, the four deep drawers and four smaller drawers offer plenty of storage for clothing as well as valuables. The two center drawers are lined for jewelry storage. Imagine having all of your favorite pieces in just one spot. No more searching through tiny boxes or multiple jewelry boxes to find the perfect earrings or cufflinks. The two square drawers on either side are just the right depth to hold bulky items such as socks and belts. The scrolled feet and bow front soften the otherwise straight lines of this piece while the brass hardware adds a bit of interest.

The English Regency Bed, also by Hickory Chair, is the perfect companion to this dresser. Choosing the upholstered headboard will break up the wood for a lighter feel in the bedroom. Flanking your bed with the matching bedside chests will give you an elegant bedroom suite.

The Winterthur collection also offers many pieces that coordinate well with this dresser. For example, the Readbourne bench with its classic American empire details such as brass trim and carved rosettes is perfect at the foot of the bed or in a dressing room. As is the Sophie chair with its Lyre shaped arms, which are similar to the scrolled sides of the dresser.

Fine furniture like this can be used in a young mans bedroom as well. The dark wood adds a masculine touch to the room while offering plenty of storage. A quality piece such as this will last for many years.

Whether you choose to place this dresser in a master bedroom, a guest room or a dressing room, the beautiful wood, classic lines and metal accents will create an elegant and refined look for you to enjoy.

Catalog items: American Empire Dresser, English Regency Bed, Readbourne bench, Sophie chair