Interior decoration is an ancient art that can trace its origins back millions of years to the time when Cavemen would paint their walls with images depicting elements of their lives.
Historically, however, home decorating has been the preserve of the nobility and other privileged members of society. The primary focus of common dwellings has always been on function, with aesthetic concerns playing second fiddle to basic necessities.
From the Roman era right through to the Renaissance, it was generally only the rich and powerful who could afford to devote time, energy and funds to enhancing their living environment in this way. A decorated home was therefore a symbol of wealth and status, with elegant, handmade furniture and the latest linens and draperies among the must-haves for pretenders to the upper classes.
It was not until the emergence of the so-called middle classes that interest in interior decoration began to spread to other social groups. This occurred during the age of European Imperialism, when new job opportunities for the common man resulted in growing numbers of merchants and sailors who could afford to dress their homes more
lavishly.
Throughout history, interior design fashions have changed and grown in line with other artistic trends. Styling ones home has gradually assumed a social importance equivalent to that of personal presentation.
The advent of television further contributed to this evolution and, although blamed by many for the increasing uniformity of decorating styles, the recent explosion in lifestyle programming has heralded a new era in what is now a booming, multi-million pound industry that employs an estimated 100,000 professional painters and decorators in the UK alone.