,,the ,,art ,,of ,,home ,,furnishing ,,and ,,decoration ,by ,,frank ,,alvah ,,parsons ,president1 ,new ,york ,school of ,fine and ,applied ,art ,author of 8,interior ,decoration--,its ,principles and ,practice10 ,etc4 ,,published ,,by ,armstrong ,cork ,company ,linoleum ,department ,,lancaster1 ,,penna41 ,u4 ,s4 ,a4 ,,second ,,edition ,copyright #aiba by ,,armstrong ,,cork ,,company ,linoleum ,department ,,lancaster1 ,,pennsylvania ,,foreword ,frank ,alvah ,parsons1 ,president of the ,new ,york ,school of ,fine and ,applied ,art1 is a leading ,american authority on interior decoration4 ,he long since has amply demonstrated his wonderful faculty for turning his knowledge to the common good4 ,we know of no man who1 with voice and pen1 has fought harder or more unceasingly for better taste1 for richer1 fuller home life4 ,mr4 ,parsons hardly can seem a stranger to the average reader of this book4 ,indeed1 through his writings and lectures1 he has become guide and counsellor and the personal friend of thousands of refined men and women1 who have accepted the idea so well developed by ,mr4 ,parsons in the following pages1 that 8,man is what he lives in20 that1 generally speaking1 man can be no greater or no less than the daily environment in which he works1 thinks1 and lives4 ,we take great satisfaction and pleasure in announcing ,mr4 ,parsons as the author of that section of this book which is entitled 8,the ,art of ,home ,furnishing and ,decoration40 ,it is written in ,mr4 ,parson's typically intimate and forceful style1 and every paragraph is replete with information and suggestions of great value4 ,we are sure that this book will hold your interest from the first to the last word1 and that in the end you will look on the possibilities of your home and your life within it in a fresh and considerably enlarged perspective4 ,after you have spent an hour with ,mr4 ,parsons on the general theme of home furnishing and decoration1 we believe that it will profit you to read what is written by ourselves in the latter part of the book on the specific subject of linoleum and its relation to the principles that ,mr4 ,parsons has laid down4 ,,armstrong ,,cork ,,company ,the ,art of ,home ,furnishing and ,decoration ,,frank ,,alvah ,,parsons ,man is exactly what he lives in1 for environment is the strongest possible factor in man's development4 ,one may be so long among loud noises1 bad odors1 inharmonious colors and wrong arrangements of things that one doesn't mind them1 because one has let them become an integral part of one's self4 ,they are there1 and they are as bad as they were at first1 but one has become immune to them4 ,this being admitted1 it follows1 of course1 that concordant sounds1 agreeable odors1 harmonious colors and pleasing arrangements have their immediate effects1 but their tendency is toward refinement1 culture and artistic appreciation instead of toward brutality1 ignorance and indifference4 ,it is certainly not hard to see what effect is produced by living in any wrong environment4 ,as a person accustoms himself to it1 he becomes like it4 ,when he is like it1 he will admire only its kind1 and whatever he does will be as nearly like his environment as he himself is4 ,the importance of thoroughly comprehending this truth cannot be overstated4 ,the mental and artistic quality of the nation and even its physical comfort depend upon it4 ,this viewpoint1 being somewhat new to us1 accounts for the upheaval in our ideas of what a home really is4 ,looking a little into this matter may perhaps stimulate us still further in our thinking1 which will affect our way of doing whatever we attempt in the future4 ,sidenote3 ,the ,home ,molds ,our ,tastes and ,lives ,in the first place the home is the center of all life's activities4 ,we are born there1 and long before we have seen the shop1 the office1 the church or even the school1 our first impressions of the fundamentals of life have become fixed4 ,these are exceedingly hard to efface4 ,the school can hardly hope to counteract in the child's mind the effect of hearing incorrect language spoken at home for six years2 the church is greatly handicapped in its influence where wrong principles of life have determined habits during the first years2 the artistic sense is practically dead and refinement of taste impossible in that child whose parents have given the usual wall papers1 rugs1 hangings1 pictures and other objects of modern furnishing a chance to do their unrestricted work4 ,most of these have been made to sell1 but not to people who use any judgment in buying4 ,occasionally we think of the durability or the comfort of an article1 but how seldom of the colors1 the patterns1 the combinations of different periods with different meanings1 all of which unite to make an unthinkable1 inharmonious jumble which produces a reaction on an impressionable person little short of criminal4 ,this being the case1 is it any wonder that too frequently we are satisfied with inferior things or that we are not able to compete with other nations in creating better ones8 ,this view of the home as an educator places it above any other institution in life and makes it worthy of the most careful and scientific study from several points of view4 ,it might be well to consider here four of the most important of these4 ,sidenote3 ,home ,must ,satisfy the ,body ,the first requisite of a house is physical comfort4 ,not only is this true of each article of furniture1 but it is true also of the placing of each piece as it relates to the other pieces4 ,take1 for instance1 a divan1 a chair1 a table1 a lamp1 some books and a footstool4 ,it is not enough that the chair1 the divan and the stool should each be comfortable to the body1 but comfort demands that each be so placed that one can use the divan or chair with the stool1 while the books on a table with a lamp are placed so that one may lounge or sit and read without effort and without expending energy to assemble what is required4 ,the best possible arrangement1 you see1 demands more skill than at first appears4 ,sidenote3 ,home ,must ,satisfy the ,mind ,mental comfort is even more important to man in his home than physical comfort4 ,he must1 or should1 find in his home an intellectual stimulus and a refining influence to complement the activities and struggles of his life outside1 to calm and rest the tired nerves and to relieve the material or commercial stress which threatens entirely to destroy his power to see or know anything else4 ,unconsciously driven by this need he rushes from home to the club1 to the theatre or elsewhere for diversion1 amusement or rest4 ,this is not as it should be1 for in the right environment the home should furnish the rest and intellectual refreshment needed4 ,let us consider that there must be an expenditure of thought and skill in furnishing a home if it is to play its rightful part in the scheme of life4 ,sidenote3 ,home ,must ,be ,sanitary ,even then1 there is another thing to consider4 ,a man may succeed in accomplishing wonders in the realm of physical comfort1 yet so completely ignore the question of sanitation as to menace the health of his family1 if not to offend their sense of decent cleanliness4 ,the horrors of ,victorian plush upholstery1 chenille portieres and nailed-down carpets are still fresh in the memory of some of us1 and we have not yet been able to get a clear idea of a really clean thing because of the bad impression made on us by these conditions4 ,probably we never shall1 until we succeed in effacing their memory by discarding the traditions they represent and adopting wholly different ideas in their places4 ,let us think of the question of sanitation as a second necessity in considering any household problem4 ,sidenote3 ,costly ,things ,not ,always ,best ,it is perhaps unnecessary to look at this matter from the viewpoint of economics1 but to me it seems very important4 ,we cannot all afford to buy everything we see1 desire or even appreciate4 ,realizing this1 we lose enthusiasm and take almost anything4 ,this is not necessary1 nor is it wise4 ,good things are not all costly1 nor are all cheap things equally bad4 ,one might also add that frequently very costly things incline to be bad2 at any rate1 there is far greater danger of their being so because of the greater opportunity they afford for the expression of bad taste4 ,knowledge furnishes the greatest defense against bad things in any form4 ,the more one knows1 the more capable he is of selecting the best for his money and of using his selections in such a way as to suggest that much more was paid for them than they really cost4 ,sidenote3 ,an ,artistic ,home ,means ,enjoyable ,living ,intelligent selection--the art of buying the most appropriate furnishings and decorations for the home--leads logically to intelligent decoration1 the art of arranging the furnishings and decorations so as to make possible a thoroughly attractive home and keenly enjoyable living for the family4 ,the introduction of the word 8,art0 always opens up a new field fraught with unpleasant possibilities4 ,so many things masquerade under this name that we are almost deceived as to what it really is4 ,shall we not attack and dispose of some of these fallacies before attempting to see what it actually is8 ,because it is an art to decorate we are apt to think that anything attached to or hung on to another thing is decoration1 therefore artistic4 ,nothing could be further from the truth4 ,principles control decoration1 and decoration is only possible when it conforms to these principles4 ,in order to be decorative there must be something that requires decoration2 that is1 which is incomplete in itself4 ,as soon as material of any kind is added after a thing is complete1 the result becomes an aggregation1 not a decoration4 ,most houses belong to this class because the owner refuses to stop when he is done4 ,he may also have erred through having no place to decorate1 his background being of such a kind that1 struggle as it might1 nothing could compete for attention1 therefore could not become decorative by contrast4 ,simplicity in backgrounds is the foundation of decorative possibility4 ,sidenote3 ,no ,room for ,sentimentality ,oversentimentality is as bad as overdecoration4 ,sentiment is not only commendable but is an essential element that makes for human decency1 but sentimentality1 which by most people is thought to be the same thing1 is unpleasant and unhealthy4 ,admiration1 affection1 veneration--each of these qualities has its place with all of us in its particular situation4 ,this is well2 but when1 through association1 we mistake an impersonal object for the real qualities of a person and begin to bestow adoration on it1 then it is time to stop and think4 ,to be sure1 one respects some things in his grandfather and his other forebears4 ,he is not insensible to the excellent points in his friends and associates4 ,but if he is a wise man1 he does not apply all his grandfather's good qualities to all the furniture he uses1 nor the excellent points in his friends to all the objects they have felt impelled to give him at one time or another for some sort of reason4 ,if half the rubbish in every house in ,america that exists for solely sentimental reasons or because of a fear of being detected in its destruction were to be burned now1 the next generation would have a much clearer vision of what art is1 unhampered by sentimental misconception4 ,a sentimental and an sthetic feeling are quite distinct from each other4 ,who is there among us who does not love nature8 ,the trees1 the birds1 the flowers--they seem to be a part of the great ,divine scheme which calls for especial appreciation4 ,this is also well2 but nature is not art1 neither is man's imitation of it4 ,sometimes his interpretation of it is art1 sometimes it is not4 ,not infrequently his conventionalization of nature and its adaptation to the material in which it is to be used become a decorative art2 yet1 even if this is accomplished1 the thing may be spoiled in the use1 and an inartistic whole may result4 ,just and reasonable homage to nature has impelled people to try in all sorts of ways to imitate it4 ,this is not art4 ,art is creation1 not imitation4 ,one has but to reflect1 and amazement must result when one realizes to what this impulse has led in every field of expression4 ,flowers have been painted on everything known1 from the kitchen floor to the plush sofa pillow4 ,the more like nature these decorations have appeared1 the more artistic they were thought to be1 when the truth was actually the reverse4 ,the more natural these are1 the more inappropriate they are as seen from any viewpoint4 ,sidenote3 ,art ,is ,creative ,who is there that would not hesitate to sit down on1 or put his foot on1 a perfectly natural rose or lily8 ,where is there a human being that would care to lie down on a pillow with the painted face1 even of an ,indian1 in the center8 ,who can see nature insulted in various objects by the sticking-in of pins or the driving-in of nails8 ,the whole thing is too simple4 ,nature has its place1 but it is not art1 nor is the imitation of it art4 ,this is so intimately associated with another fallacy that it should suggest it without comment4 ,the appetites of man are ever insistent for attention4 ,the desire for food1 drink1 shelter--these are physical appetites4 ,they make their assertions naturally1 and when normally treated bear their relation to the rest of life4 ,but neither these nor the sensations attendant on them are art1 nor should these senses be confounded with the artistic sense4 ,apples and pears look well on trees1 in suitable receptacles or on tables4 ,they are to eat4 ,imitations of them painted on plates seem to win admiration at once for their likeness to the real thing4 ,the saliva flows in the mouth1 the digestive organs begin their natural functions1 and1 while our sensations are purely physical1 strangely enough many think this artistic4 ,it is the hunger appetite being appeased1 not the sthetic4 ,the atrocities committed in this field are innumerable4 ,exact copies of everything1 from a bunch of grapes to an ostrich1 may be found in one winter's millinery display1 while the real or copied forms of everything1 from a dried fish to a gigantic moose head1 may be seen in one dining-room at one time4 ,this is not art4 ,it is natural history and botany illustration in museum effect4 ,sidenote3 ,all ,pictures ,are ,not ,good ,the hardest thing in the world to combat is a universal belief in the infallibility of pictures4 ,these are necessary to convey ideas and they have a function to perform4 ,they are interesting1 they may even be amusing1 but they are by no means always artistic4 ,so great has been the belief in and admiration for pictures1 that we have1 as a nation1 pretty nearly surrendered to the idea that drawing and picture-making alone is art4 ,no greater mistake than this has ever been made4 ,there are a thousand more bad pictures than there are good ones and a hundred bad ones used in houses where one good one appears4 ,this is because we seem to have a kind of fear that there may be a vacant place on the wall1 and also because the picture idea has become a mania4 8,silence is golden10 but a blank space on a wall is often diamonds and emeralds compared to one filled with the average pictures that are hung1 not to mention their frames4 ,what shall we say of this phase of human dissipation1 particularly when the frames are gilt ones8 ,a person who allows himself to decorate his house with frames instead of pictures should be expected to hang his wardrobe in the front hall for the same purpose4 ,the results of this mania should not be charged up to the credit side of art4 ,rather1 the man afflicted with it is a slave to tradition4 ,for the most difficult thing in the world is for a person to change his established way of thinking or of doing anything4 ,it is so much easier to think as one's grandfather did and to do as one's father did than it is to think and do for one's self4 ,for this reason we are somewhat handicapped in getting at the essence of art and its practical applications to ordinary life4 ,if mahogany was the favored wood in the last half of the eighteenth century1 of course it is a good idea to use it for anything1 anywhere1 forever afterward1 even though a much better substitute is at hand4 ,if floors were hardwood or soft wood or stone1 or even plastered with ,oriental rugs bearing no relation to the rest of the house1 there seems to be no reason why people should change the rugs or have another kind of floor4 ,examples of this adherence to tradition are so frequent and so deadly that to cite more would be a waste of time4 ,traditional belief that antiques are always good or that the work of some particular man is forever praiseworthy or that some particular article should always be used in some established way1 has blinded us to the possibilities in the right use of new things in a progressive way4 ,all this hinders a clear perception of what art really is4 ,if these things which have been misnamed art are carefully removed from consciousness permanently1 it is easy enough to see what art is1 and then it becomes almost an unconscious process to apply it1 whether the application is made to the house1 to clothes1 or to other personal forms of expression4 ,sidenote3 ,art ,is ,expressing ,yourself ,in the first place1 art is creation4 ,it is the personal expression of the individual in any material or combination that completely conveys his conception of what he is trying to project4 ,this connection generally expresses a need which he himself feels4 ,it may be for a house1 a living-room1 a divan1 a hat1 a footstool1 a typewriter or an automobile4 ,in any case1 there is a need for something for a particular use4 ,this need should be the reason for the art expression4 ,spurred on by the need1 a man creates something which will fill the need4 ,this need is both functional or material and mental or artistic4 ,one bar to seeing what art is rests in not recognizing this two-fold element in it4 ,in so far as one is able to make a chair that fits the body1 fulfils its special function as a dining-room chair1 or a study chair1 he has succeeded in creating the first artistic element4 ,an object which does not do honestly and truthfully and sensibly what it purports to do cannot be artistic1 no matter how it looks4 ,sidenote3 ,art ,is ,beauty ,the second element that enters into art is appearance or beauty4 ,this element or quality is a little more difficult to define because it is relative1 just as heat is1 or as goodness is4 ,what seems warm to one seems cold to another2 what seems good to one may be bad to some one else2 so1 then1 the standard of beauty depends entirely upon one's own conception of it4 ,this does not mean that anything that anybody considers beautiful is so1 any more than it means that it is a warm day when the thermometer is at zero because somebody does not feel cold4 ,it simply means that the person who judges may or may not have a right mental standard of what beauty really is4 ,this standard may be acquired approximately by anyone1 for it is determined by certain principles4 ,if the principles of harmony are understood and applied1 beauty will result4 ,sidenote3 ,the ,function of a ,room ,take1 for instance1 the problem of a particular room4 ,the first question to ask one's self is3 8,what is this room for80 ,if it is a dining-room1 it is a place in which to eat in peace4 ,if it is a living-room1 it is to live in and should have a quiet1 restful1 refined and otherwise pleasant atmosphere4 ,if it is a bedroom1 it is to rest and sleep in4 ,from whatever standpoint the room is viewed1 the question of use comes first4 ,anything in the dining-room that interferes with eating in peace is in bad taste4 ,whatever appears as decoration in the living-room that is unrestful1 tawdry1 common or unessential1 is inartistic4 ,if the bedroom contains anything that is out of tone with its general spirit1 if it contains anything that makes for other than an atmosphere of calm contentment and deep1 sound sleep1 it should be removed at once4 ,let this point of view spur us on to make an investigation of our houses--room by room--and alter or remove everything that strikes a jarring note4 ,let us start with the bedroom4 ,are there spotted fabrics or papers on the wall1 the spots on which one involuntarily counts1 even after going to sleep8 ,are there a half dozen small pictures in black frames against a white background1 so hung that successive steps are formed which resemble the front hall stairs8 ,are there other diverting and disturbing arrangements in the room that seem to invite us to close our eyes to avoid further annoyance8 ,much can be done in house decoration by elimination1 and the strongest argument for this process will be found in submitting each room to the test as to the performance of its proper function4 ,sidenote3 ,the ,language of ,art ,these elements1 fitness to use and beauty1 which when combined make what is called the art of quality1 must be made comprehensible by facts and truths which can be expressed in a language form that all may learn to understand4 ,this art language is made up of color1 form1 line and texture1 and depends for its efficiency on a knowledge of the principles which govern it and upon an appreciation for the niceties in its use4 ,anyone can learn the principles and will grow in appreciation as he makes a right use of what he knows4 ,of the qualities mentioned1 color is the most interesting2 at least1 it is the easiest to see4 ,at the same time it is the most misused4 ,this is much too small a space in which to demonstrate with any thoroughness the color language idea1 but two or three of the most important facts must be emphasized4 ,sidenote3 ,use of ,color ,to ,express ,personality ,nothing is more personal than color and nothing admits of expressing personality with clearer or more manifest charm4 ,the normal colors--yellow1 red1 blue1 green1 orange and violet--may be used in illustration of this statement4 ,color has its source in light1 and natural light comes from the sun4 ,yellow looks most like the sun1 as it expresses the quality that the sun seems to give out4 ,from the sun we are cheered1 made light-hearted and receive new life4 ,yellow in a room should1 under normal conditions1 produce the same feelings where it is the basis for the wall color or is used in curtains or in other spots4 ,red suggests blood and fire4 ,it is associated with activity1 aggression and passion4 ,it heats and stimulates4 ,one who fails to react to color is not normal or is immune from overcontact1 while one who simply likes or dislikes a color and1 therefore1 uses it or never does1 misses the real chance to express ideas4 ,if one prefers red1 there is no proof in the fact that makes it incumbent on him to live surrounded by it4 ,he may be erratic enough without it1 or possibly he doesn't need a stimulant4 ,need is the fundamental question rather than liking4 ,it is a question of what one ought to have4 ,it is interesting to know that the aggressive quality of red makes a room in which it is used smaller in appearance1 and there are times when this is not desirable4 ,its warming quality is not needed in hot climates or during a warm season4 ,blue has an opposite effect from red4 ,its reactions are restraint1 coolness1 repose and distance4 ,by association one thinks of a clear blue sky and the cool breezes from the blue waters of the ocean4 ,this makes blue a suitable antidote for hot weather and a temperate force1 useful in modifying some people's dispositions4 ,green1 which is a union of yellow and blue1 expresses the qualities of both4 ,nothing could be more restful1 soothing and agreeable than the cheering and cooling effects of a seat in the shade upon the green grass under luxuriant green trees1 in the middle of a hot day4 ,it is easy to see the practical application of this in decorative art4 ,violet or purple has the qualities of red and blue1 while orange has the qualities of yellow and red4 ,it is interesting to study the natural reactions shown by people of all ages and conditions to these colors as environments under different mental conditions4 ,incomplete as these suggestions are1 they are probably sufficient to establish the point that personal qualities or individual character traits can be definitely expressed in color terms and that antidotes for an excess of certain qualities are just as possible where a knowledge of color exists4 ,there is a second color quality that we must not ignore4 ,if ,i think of one group of colors containing light pink1 delicate blue1 lavender1 canary yellow and white as representing one idea1 and dark crimson1 heavy1 dark green1 blue with a rich dark purple and black as another group1 ,i have a basis for comparison4 ,if my problem of expression is the qualities that we generally attribute to youth1 or the proper colors for a young girl's bedroom1 or for the lighter and more delicate things in life1 ,i have no hesitation in choosing the first group4 ,if1 on the other hand1 the problem is one of clothes for a person of mature age1 or a color scheme for a library in an old ,english house1 or some other problem in which the qualities required are dignity1 quietness and stability1 there should be no question as to the preference for the second group4 ,this quality of light and darkness in color is called value and must not be forgotten in using color as a language4 ,there is no doubt that the third quality1 called intensity1 is the most important of all to a right understanding of interior decoration4 ,this quality determines how brilliant or how forceful a color tone is4 ,softer and less aggressive tones are called neutral or neutralized colors4 ,the most important question in using color decoratively is that which relates to the distribution and correct placing of neutralized colors in their relation to the more intense ones4 ,the grossest errors in the whole realm of color used in decoration are committed in this field4 ,one or two principles that relate to this matter must always be carefully observed3 8,backgrounds should be less intense in color than objects that are to appear against them in any decorative way40 ,from this it obviously follows that walls1 ceilings and floors of houses must be less intense in color than hangings1 upholsteries1 small rugs1 pictures and other decorative material4 ,this is one of the most important points to remember in every color problem4 ,there is a corollary to this which is equally important3 8,the larger the color area the less intense it should be1 and the smaller the area1 the more intense it may be40 ,according to this principle1 hangings and large rugs must be less intense in color than sofa cushions1 lamp shades and decorative bits of pottery and other materials4 ,keeping this relation of areas in mind is an aid in selecting any article for the house1 as well as a help in choosing those things that are concerned with one's personal appearance4 ,a red necktie is more appealing than a red suit1 so is a red flower or ribbon more decorative on a black hat than a gray one would be on a red hat4 ,the slightest attempt at using color must disclose its power to express personality1 its natural value feeling and its decorative dependence upon a proper distribution of intensities4 ,sidenote3 ,use of ,form ,to ,express ,ideas ,while the principles of form are a little less apparent in their illustration to most of us than color1 yet they are no less important in producing a harmonious whole4 ,one of the first premises of decoration is the assumption that there is a definite form or shape upon which a decoration is to be applied4 ,the direction of the bounding lines of this form determines the direction of the principal lines of the decorative matter which is to be applied on it4 ,the bounding lines of a floor are generally straight and at right angles to each other4 ,this fixes several important points regarding the disposition of rugs and furniture4 ,rugs that are placed at all sorts of angles on the floor and by their positions bid one go in any direction save the one he started to take are among the most disconcerting and distracting lines in a room arrangement4 ,place all rugs in accord with the bounding lines of a room and harmony is at once restored4 ,one must conform to this principle also in placing furniture4 ,most pieces should be parallel with the sides of the room1 even though they are not against the walls4 ,curved line chairs or other small objects sometimes lend themselves naturally to a diagonal placement4 ,care should be taken in grouping furniture to give the appearance of harmony with the room structure4 ,let us look after the piano that is placed catacorner in the living-room1 and the bed1 in the same position1 in the bedroom4 ,it is not unusual to see pictures strung over the walls in such a way that the line indicated from the top of one to another is a zigzag that illy suggests harmony with the structure of the wall4 ,triangular picture wires are ugly and distracting4 ,unless a picture is small enough to be hung with an invisible attachment at the back1 it should be hung with one long wire passed through two screw eyes1 one at each top corner of the frame1 with one wire paralleling each side of the frame and going over a hook above4 ,this not only harmonizes the wire with the frame1 but with the doors1 windows and the room structure4 ,the choice and arrangement of essential materials in the room1 so far as the aspect of beauty is concerned1 will be treated in detail later on4 ,sidenote3 ,size and ,shape of ,objects a ,factor ,the principle of consistently related shapes and sizes finds scores of applications in the arrangement of a room4 ,who has not wondered what to do with a round clock1 when everything else adjacent to it was either square or rectangular in form8 ,where is there a house in which there is not a round or oval picture to be placed1 or a chair of wholly curved lines1 where all others are straight8 ,the attempt to place one isolated round object on a wall is generally a failure1 because there is nothing to relate it to any other nearby lines4 ,oval and curved objects must be repeated by others similar in form in other positions in the room if they are to become in any sense a part of the design4 ,the second part of this principle--consistent sizes--is even more important and far-reaching than the first4 ,to the architect1 the decorator or the creator of any art object1 this is a vital matter4 ,every interior1 as well as exterior1 architectural feature is thought of in relation to every other one in the matter of size4 ,it is not uncommon to enter a room and find a chimney large enough for an ,elizabethan banquet hall1 while the room itself1 in size1 suggests a city flat4 ,nor is it less common to find a table or divan of gigantic proportions being required to live in harmony with chairs or other articles of various pigmy types4 ,these unusual and unhappy relationships cannot conform to the principle of consistent sizes4 ,in our use of hangings1 upholstery1 rugs1 etc41 the lack of feeling for consistent sizes is still more often apparent4 ,before discussing this1 let us look for a moment at patterns and motifs as they are used in textiles1 wall papers and rugs4 ,for some unknown reason we have come to believe that there is no beauty in anything in which there is not a pattern plainly visible1 forgetting that three-fourths of all wall and floor spaces are backgrounds on which to show other more important things1 including people1 who have some right to be exploited even against wall paper4 ,there are some phases of the motif running through a design1 that may be considered here in some detail4 ,there are three distinct varieties of motif4 ,first1 the motif which aims to reproduce identically a natural object4 ,such things are rarely successful4 ,the second is known as the abstract type1 where the motif is of a form and color not derived from a natural source1 being a matter of space and line arrangement1 often resulting in geometric forms4 ,the third1 known as the conventional motif1 takes a natural thing and attempts to translate it into form and color suited by its appearance and feeling to some particular material in which the design is developed4 ,in the conventional design1 beauty is attained by harmonizing the motif with the material on which the design is made1 while the naturalistic motif strives to represent some natural thing and takes a chance on its being appropriate in the material in which it is to be rendered4 ,harmony in motifs means1 first1 a relation in this particular1 from which it follows that a rug or floor which is entirely geometric in pattern cannot be used successfully with hangings which show a purely naturalistic design4 ,another opportunity for harmony is found in consistently related motifs as to size and shape4 ,it frequently happens that the floor motif1 for example1 is small and delicate in size and refined in line treatment4 ,if a person is naturally sensitive to color rather than form and he finds a rug or hangings pleasing in color1 he is often satisfied4 ,for harmony in relationship1 however1 he must ask if the motif in the rug and that in the hangings are consistent in size and shape with the floor and wall motifs4 ,sidenote3 ,elements in a ,room ,must ,balance ,a third principle of form is known as balance4 ,this is the principle of arrangement whereby attractions are equalized and through this equalization a restful feeling is obtained2 that is1 a feeling of equilibrium or safety4 ,it is somewhat disconcerting to enter a small room and find a black piano across one corner and a delicate ,hepplewhite chair in the opposite corner4 ,one instinctively rushes to the aid of the chair4 ,attraction may be of color1 size1 shape or texture1 and one learns only by constant practice to see and feel the attraction forces in different objects used4 ,there are two types of balance to consider4 ,the first one1 known as bi-symmetric balance1 is the equalization of attractions on either side of a vertical center by using objects the same size1 shape1 color and texture4 ,this is formal1 dignified and safe1 but lacks in some ways the delicacy and subtlety resulting from an attempt to get a less formal placing4 ,consider a vertical line drawn through the center of a chimney-piece placed in the middle of a wall space4 ,on either side of the chimney-piece and equally distant from it may be placed two pictures similar in size1 form and color1 and the result is bi-symmetrical4 ,if two similar candlesticks are placed one at either end of the chimney-piece and equidistant from the end1 with a portrait in the center1 there is still bi-symmetric arrangement4 ,so long as this arrangement is maintained1 bi-symmetry results4 ,a second kind of balance is known as occult balance4 ,this term is used to signify that the balance is rather felt or sensed than exactly determined4 ,if the same vertical line is drawn through the same chimney-piece1 one picture is placed a certain distance from the left and two smaller pictures of unequal size are used on the right to balance this4 ,the two pictures must be so placed that their attraction equals that of the larger one at the left4 ,similarly1 if one large porcelain jar and two or three other articles are to be used1 there must be a feeling of equal attraction on either side of the vertical line4 ,to explain briefly the primary laws of balance we may give the rules3 8,equal attractions balance each other at equal distances from the center40 ,and1 conversely3 8,unequal attractions balance each other at unequal distances from the center40 ,a third and a little more complicated law is stated as follows3 8,unequal attractions balance each other at distances from the center which are in inverse ratio to their powers of attraction40 ,translated1 this means that objects with the strongest attractions tend to gravitate toward the central line1 while less attractive ones tend to draw from this line4 ,the application of the rules of balance not only to objects on the wall1 but to the furniture when seen against the wall or against the floor1 is essential to room composition4 ,it is also essential that the floor1 in its general appearance1 should bear a balanced relation to the walls and to the hangings4 ,there is no better place1 perhaps1 than at this point to make clear the relations of these three bounding surfaces4 ,the ceiling should be unobtrusive1 but keyed in color to the rest of the room4 ,a perfectly white ceiling1 except in a white room1 or an over-ornamented ceiling anywhere is an annoyance to him who would see his friends or furnishings4 ,a too-aggressive wall paper or other wall covering makes a bid for attention quite out of proportion to its rights as a background1 while aggressive and over-assertive floors or rugs are in bad taste1 particularly when they assume the prerogatives of the hostess in their attempt at attraction4 ,sidenote3 8,crawly0 ,pictures and ,patterns ,are ,bad ,the ceiling should be about as much lighter and less attractive than the walls1 as the walls are lighter and less attractive than the floor4 ,this is a balanced arrangement of ceilings1 walls and floors4 ,operating exactly opposite to the principle of balance is one known as movement4 ,this is calculated to cause unrest1 excitement and similar sensations1 by creating an interest which causes the eye to move from one thing to another4 ,it is very desirable in many cases that movement1 particularly of a violent type1 should not occur4 ,allusion to stair arrangements in picture hangings has already been made4 ,this is not conducive to sleep4 ,erratic crawling vine patterns1 creeping up the curtains or the wall paper1 are a little suggestive in the early morning hours if one chances to awake4 ,violent contrasting lines1 created by bad furniture placing or by spotted wall papers or floor covering1 also become tiresome and disturbing1 except to those who by long contact with such things have become immune to their influence4 ,even such may suffer a subconscious disturbance1 though they do not realize it4 ,there is a certain monotony attendant on the continual presentation of one sound1 one color or one form1 for mental consideration4 ,on the other hand1 there is a complete disorganization of the powers of the human mind if a host of colors1 forms or sounds are presented at one time4 ,if one is poverty1 the other is certainly gluttony1 and neither should be accepted4 ,it is through a judicious selection and arrangement that sufficient variety is obtained to give pleasure1 while restraint results in making life humanly possible4 ,it is very rarely that we err on the side of simplicity1 but it is not at all unlikely that we may become flagrantly sumptuous1 with an uncomfortable1 tawdry result4 ,sidenote3 ,emphasize ,only ,important ,things in a ,room ,the principle known as emphasis is one which we must regard as important4 ,in a bedroom one ought to see a bed2 it is vastly more important than the picture exhibition hung about it4 ,in a dining-room a well-set table is the emphatic note1 not the chenille curtains nor the products of the chase hung upon the wall4 ,in the living-room the easy-chair1 the divan1 the bookcase1 the beautiful portrait1 lamp or picture--all these things should be emphasized by color1 form or line1 that their importance as related to other things in the room may be apparent at sight4 ,knowing this to be true1 is it not strange that we still find people who are willing to emphasize the wall paper or the floor or the unpleasant ceiling decorations1 to the absolute exclusion of anything else that may have to be used in the room8 ,the relation of background to decorative objects cannot be insisted upon too much4 ,sidenote3 ,the ,spirit of the ,whole ,house ,should ,be the ,spirit of ,each ,room ,the final principle of form is known as unity4 ,in this limited discussion only a word can be said of it4 ,a room is a unit1 so should a house be4 ,it is impossible to look with equanimity from an ,old ,english dining-room into a ,louis ,,xvi sitting-room4 ,these styles are very far apart in their meaning and can only be harmonized by those who know how1 when1 where and how much of each element to use4 ,it is just as impossible to make a unit out of a mixture of ,fifteenth1 ,seventeenth and ,nineteenth ,century furniture1 unless one knows how4 ,every article used in furnishing a house not only has its conventional value1 but its design also4 ,if one knows thoroughly the exact meaning and power of a ,louis ,,xvi chair1 an ,elizabethan table1 an ,italian console or a ,william and ,mary bookcase1 there is no doubt that these may be used successfully in one room4 ,there are so many considerations in such a problem that it is insufficient to choose single objects for their value alone4 ,each thing must be chosen with a clear understanding of what room it is to go in and with what other things it is in the future to be associated4 ,a failure to do this will certainly result in pandemonium4 ,what shall we do with the things we have8 ,use them if we have to1 destroy them if we are willing to--at least eliminate everything that is nonessential4 ,the pernicious practice of giving everything one learns to dislike or that has become worn out1 to the poor1 does more to prevent them from enjoying a personal growth than any other one thing4 ,perhaps no better way to think of the principle of unity can be suggested than to quote the definition of an eminent ,nineteenth ,century historian3 8,a unit is that to which nothing can be added and from which nothing can be taken without interfering materially with the idea itself40 ,sidenote3 ,objects ,should ,look the ,way ,they ,feel ,the question of texture as a form of expression must not be omitted4 ,texture is that quality of an object which seems to convey the idea of how it feels4 ,it is a combination of a degree of solidity1 strength1 roughness1 coarseness1 etc4 ,one finds this quality in the grained effects of wood1 in the weaves of different textiles1 in the appearance of braided straws1 and even in feathers and other materials4 ,it is this sense of fitness in textural feeling that forbids the use of hard1 harsh-grained oaks with the finer textures of mahogany and satin-wood4 ,disregarding this quality1 people often combined the coarser1 heavier and more-resisting woolens or linens with soft1 impressionable and destructible silks or fine cottons4 ,harmony in the texture quality cannot fail to contribute to harmony in the finished unit4 ,such is the language of art expression in color1 form1 line and texture4 ,the principles which govern the right selection and combination of all materials that go to make a house are the real guides to growth in artistic appreciation4 ,sidenote3 ,good ,taste the ,final ,criterion ,good taste1 which is the final criterion in all art1 is cultivated or improved in most people by a constant study and application of the principles which control artistic expression4 ,should we not1 all of us1 do well often to take time to remind ourselves of certain great established principles and to endeavor constantly to see more clearly and completely the principles that govern the expression of these truths8 ,thereby we may unconsciously form habits of thinking and of doing things that will not only make for broader and better personal growth1 but will contribute to a higher type of national civilization4 ,we have not to worry if all the powers of science are not directed to the development of so-called efficient service1 in lines that are wholly material and commercial4 ,we are extraordinarily committed to this propaganda1 as a people1 and we might ask ourselves whether we may not be developing this idea at the expense of mental and spiritual ideals that1 after all1 are the real things that not only determine what we actually are1 but are the only things that are truly permanent4 ,life is certainly something beside machinery1 raw materials and money1 even granting these to be essentials4 ,perceiving the desirability of the art quality results generally in an effort to possess it1 and that entails immediate action in two distinct ways4 ,first1 go out to find the simple1 fundamental principles that control the language of color1 form1 line and texture2 second1 apply these principles at once in the home1 in the shop1 in clothes1 in printed paper or in any concrete thing where interest and possibility are found4 ,through every application growth is assured4 ,sidenote3 ,influence of ,environment ,let us again remember that man is exactly what he lives in1 for environment is the strongest possible factor in man's development4 ,let us not forget that what man really is1 is what his mind is1 and this he must express in all he does4 ,this places the importance of the home where it deserves to be and makes its furnishing one of the most serious and at the same time one of the most delightful things in life1 never for an instant minimizing what has always been desirable1 but vastly enlarging and ennobling the idea for which it stood4 ,in recognizing anew the part art is to play in this matter1 let us not forget that it in no way interferes with the three essential qualities that are inevitably factors in every home problem simple or elaborate1 as the case may be4 ,perfect physical comfort is necessary1 if only from the standpoint of more efficient service on our part and the relief it brings us1 not to be constantly thinking how hard the bed is1 how uncomfortable the chair seems1 or how rough and uneven the floor feels4 ,art in no way interferes with physical comfort2 in fact1 it demands it1 as an element of the eternal fitness of things4 ,the nation is awake to the power of cleanliness as a factor in making an efficient physical1 and thereby1 indirectly1 a finer mental being1 as a contribution to modern civilization4 ,every article selected for the home should have this requirement considered4 ,including this in the art idea will remove the misapprehension under which some people labor1 that art implies disorder at home1 a dowdy or unkempt person and a disregard of nature's most obvious laws4 ,the first law of ,heaven is order2 it is no less so of art4 ,expense is the constant excuse of those who want better things but cannot afford them4 ,there are as many bad expensive things as there are cheap ones4 ,no home is too poor to have much better things1 much better arranged1 than it has1 and no home is so rich that much of the furnishing might not well be publicly burned and the rest rearranged4 ,from any standpoint1 comfort1 sanitation1 economics or art1 the home is to become the greatest moulding influence in human life4 ,shall we remain apathetic and indifferent to this most vital problem1 satisfied to increase our bank account only1 or shall we awaken now and contribute our mite to a fuller national life and a higher and happier existence8 ,this certainly will not decrease our power to increase the bank account1 but will enable us to do it with far less physical effort4 ,sidenote3 ,floor ,styles ,change with the ,customs ,traditions have generally obtained in each generation and fashion as to what materials should be used in various parts of the house and how to use them4 ,the original ideas which went to establish these traditions or manners differed in their origins1 but were always the logical outcomes of times in which they were developed4 ,for instance1 the walls of the house in the ,italian ,renaissance were of stone4 ,steel was not thought of and wood unsuited1 while in ,american ,colonial days wood was the most plentiful material and the quickest and easiest to handle in building in the manner in which the people lived4 ,at various times climate1 geography1 religious and social customs and the developments of science or art have changed conditions1 and with this1 methods and materials have undergone similar changes4 ,floors1 for example1 have mostly been of clay1 stone1 tile or wood1 dictated by one or more of the modifying influences of which we have spoken4 ,wood cannot take the place of stone1 neither should it try to pretend to do so1 but there is no denying that one is better than the other under certain conditions and that neither is the only good floor under all conditions4 ,linoleum as a floor is not a substitute for stone1 wood1 tile or clay4 ,it is another material1 recent in conception and suited to particular conditions1 because of properties that neither stone1 clay nor wood have in exactly the same proportions4 ,sidenote3 ,where ,linoleum ,may ,be ,suitable and ,desirable ,like other floors in modern houses1 linoleum ought to combine the qualities of sanitation1 comfort1 durability to fulfil completely its functions4 ,when made to conform to these ends--as it does if properly designed1 and then selected and arranged so as to harmonize perfectly with its surroundings--it is not only suitable but desirable4 ,linoleum is sanitary1 because the most obvious thing about it is the ease with which it can be cleaned and kept clean4 ,linoleum is comfortable1 because it is soft1 quiet and resilient underfoot4 ,it is economical1 because it is durable4 ,in parts of ,europe1 the artistic possibilities of linoleum have been developed to such a degree that many fine homes are furnished throughout with floors of that material4 ,there is no reason why1 in this country1 the development of the art side of linoleum should not follow the general development of interior decoration4 ,for patterns and colors1 suitable for any scheme of house furnishing and decoration1 seemingly1 can be produced4 ,how ,to ,select ,linoleum ,floors ,,kathleen ,,clinch ,,calkins#a ,while the principles and suggestions on home furnishing and decoration set forth by ,mr4 ,parsons on the preceding pages are fresh in our minds1 let us see how they may be applied specifically to the selection of floors in the modern home4 ,according to ,mr4 ,parsons1 if properly designed and selected to harmonize with its surroundings1 modern linoleum is not only suitable but desirable as a floor for every room in the house4 ,let us first define the various types of linoleum1 and then1 going from one room to another1 learn how to use linoleum floors effectively and artistically1 keeping in mind the fundamental principles that ,mr4 ,parsons has explained to us4 ,sidenote3 ,what ,linoleum ,is ,linoleum was invented in ,england in #ahfc4 ,the name comes from two ,latin words1 linum 7flax7 and oleum 7oil74 ,thus linoleum takes its name from its principal ingredient1 linseed oil4 ,before it can be used in making linoleum1 however1 the linseed oil must be oxidized by exposing it to the air until it hardens into a tough1 rubber-like substance4 ,the oxidized oil is then mixed with powdered cork1 wood flour1 various gums1 and color pigments2 and the resulting plastic mass is pressed on burlap by means of great rollers that exert a pressure of hundreds of pounds to the square inch4 ,the 8green linoleum0 then passes into huge drying ovens1 where it is hung up in festoons to cure and season4 ,this curing process takes from one to six weeks1 depending on the thickness of the material4 ,there are several varieties of linoleum1 designated as follows3 7a7 ,plain linoleum--of solid color1 without pattern--the heavier grades of which are used for covering the decks of battleships and hence are known as 8battleship linoleum40 7b7 ,jaspe linoleum1 which is like inlaid linoleum in that the colors run clear through the fabric4 ,it is made in plain colorings1 with a pleasing graining in two tones of the same color4 7c7 ,inlaid linoleum1 in which the colors of the pattern go through to the burlap back4 7d7 ,granite linoleum1 which is also a variety of inlaid4 ,it has a mottled appearance1 resembling terrazzo4 7e7 ,printed linoleum1 which is simply plain linoleum with a design printed on the surface with oil paint4 ,turn for a moment to the colorplates at the back of this book1 and note the illustrations of various types of linoleum floors4 ,your local merchant has actual samples of linoleum1 and will be glad to show you the different grades4 ,sidenote3 ,used for ,years in ,europe ,as ,mr4 ,parsons has suggested1 the use of linoleum floors all over the house is not new2 it is one of the excellent ideas in home building that has come to us from ,europe4 ,there the designing of linoleum1 for many years1 has been given particular attention2 and linoleum floors have found ready acceptance in bedrooms1 living-rooms1 dining-rooms1 etc41 not alone in homes of persons of moderate means1 but just as frequently in those of the rich and well-to-do4 ,european architects are accustomed to specify linoleum floors in new buildings instead of other materials less desirable4 ,the ,european housewife takes particular pride in keeping her linoleum floors in spick-and-span condition by waxing and polishing them4 ,and1 as the years pass1 linoleum floors soften in color and deepen in tone1 taking on a finish not unlike that of wood which has been mellowed by age4 ,sidenote3 ,growing ,use in ,america ,in ,america1 the makers of ,armstrong's ,linoleum were the first to give attention to the designing of linoleum patterns that would lend themselves to acceptable use in the modern ,american home4 ,skilled designers were brought from the best ,european establishments and given carte blanche in the development of designs particularly appropriate to ,american ideas of home decoration and conditions of living4 ,as a result1 we can state with confidence that for beauty1 attractiveness1 and general utility the ,armstrong floor designs now available are not excelled either in ,europe or ,america4 ,miss ,rene ,stillman1 a writer on interior decoration1 in discussing recently in the ,philadelphia ,public ,ledger the change from unsanitary carpets to the use of fabric rugs speaks also of the change in linoleums and their relation to modern interior decoration4 ,she says1 444 8and then the new linoleums1 not the old kitchen kind1 but modern floors which have become works of art1 some of which are not unlike the floors in old palaces4 ,not long ago ,i went to an exhibit given by a number of prominent interior decorators4 ,there ,i went through one of the most charmingly decorated houses you ever saw1 and every floor had linoleum upon it4 ,it was a house of ,spanish architecture1 and there was a central court1 with fountains and foliage--an unpretentious1 but very beautiful1 little court4 ,and1 would you believe it8 it was paved--,i use the word advisedly--with linoleum of the large black-and-white blocks1 for all the world like large black-and-white marble tiles4 ,the other rooms were also covered with linoleum1 which toned with the woodwork or the walls or the general scheme of the furnishings4 ,but these rooms were also covered with fabric rugs1 some of them large central rugs1 allowing the linoleum floor to show about the edges4 ,in other rooms1 the rugs were smaller and scattered over a larger surface of the linoleum4 ,of course1 it was very good linoleum1 mostly cork ,i think1 and the pattern went all the way through4 ,i was charmed with the subtle colors1 the often exquisite designs40 ,as a matter of fact1 in the last few years many leading architects and interior decorators have used linoleum floors in homes they have planned1 particularly because of the decorative effects it is possible to achieve with linoleum floors1 as contrasted with other materials4 ,where the problem is to redecorate a house1 linoleum is being more and more widely used to resurface worn wood floors4 ,and1 in many new homes1 owners and architects have specified linoleum floors instead of wood2 they have used linoleum not alone because of the economy in dollars and cents but because linoleum floors are so very much easier to take care of4 ,especially where the housewife has to do her own work1 or good help is difficult to obtain1 linoleum aids materially in solving this almost universal household problem4 ,the portfolio of colorplates and black-and-white reproductions included with this book will give you an excellent idea of just how linoleum floors look in modern homes4 ,if you are planning to build a new house1 you owe it to yourself to investigate the possibilities that linoleum floors offer you in making the home unusually interesting and attractive4 ,sidenote3 ,for the ,hall ,the hall is the first place in your home that visitors see4 ,it must be kept speckless and spotless4 ,a linoleum hall floor proclaims the neatness of the housewife to all visitors the moment they cross the threshold because it is so easy to keep such a floor fresh and inviting4 ,and no matter what the decorative treatment of your hall1 there are patterns in ,armstrong's ,linoleum that will harmonize perfectly with rugs1 walls1 and furniture4 ,for a formal vestibule1 there are exclusive designs that will appeal to all tastes4 ,for instance1 ,pattern #cej1 which is a six-inch block design of alternate black and white squares1 suggests marble tile4 ,or there is an interesting ,persian tile1 ,pattern ,no4 #bcb1 in cream1 red1 and black4 ,the newer designs in marble and tile inlaids permit many interesting combinations4 ,in an entrance hall proper1 you may prefer wood effects4 ,there are several linoleum parquetries which1 waxed and polished1 make splendid floors for halls and reception rooms1 as well as living- and dining-rooms4 ,the durability of good linoleum should always be kept in mind4 ,the number of footsteps it would take to wear it out cannot be estimated1 and dripping umbrellas and wet rubbers do not damage it4 ,sidenote3 ,for the ,living-,room ,linoleum for the living-room8 ,remember1 we are now speaking of linoleum as a floor and not as a covering4 ,there is a vital distinction4 ,over linoleum installed as a permanent floor1 naturally1 you will lay your fabric rugs1 whether they are domestic or ,oriental4 ,and you will select your linoleum floor carefully1 because it must serve as a background not only for the rugs placed upon it1 but for all the furnishings of the room1 just as the wall-covering is a background for the pictures or draperies hung against it4 ,the general rule is that the linoleum floor should be darker in tone than the walls and woodwork4 ,it is the foundation upon which the whole plan of furnishing is based4 ,thus you will select your linoleum floors1 keeping in mind the type of furniture1 the woodwork1 and the general effect you wish to produce4 ,for example1 if the woodwork is dark and the furniture tends toward the massive in style1 one of the darker tones of plain brown1 the brown jaspe1 or a parquetry linoleum floor is appropriate4 ,if the woodwork is white or ivory1 the floors may be selected in softer tones of gray1 green1 and light brown1 depending on the character of the furnishings4 ,sidenote3 ,for the ,dining-,room ,linoleum is truly the logical floor for the dining-room4 ,every practical consideration persuades its use4 ,in the dining-room1 cheerfulness and individuality are the prime requisites4 ,a thoughtful selection of the floor in relation to the furnishings may be made to contribute not a little to the charm of a room4 ,the newer linoleum designs offer many interesting suggestions2 for instance1 a marble tile1 with contrasting interliners1 or one of the carpet inlaids of all-over pattern1 permits out-of-the-ordinary floor treatment4 ,pattern ,no4 #bja1 a little three-inch tile of alternating black and gray blocks1 is reminiscent of ,italian influence4 ,in the woods1 ,parquetry ,no4 #fjj is particularly good4 ,or1 for the average home1 nothing is better than the jaspes in browns and grays1 or a plain linoleum in appropriate coloring4 ,in any room1 a nice balance in the use of figured and plain surfaces is always desirable4 ,for instance1 if a plain coloring or a jaspe linoleum is used for the floor1 figured rugs and wall coverings may well be chosen4 ,if1 however1 a patterned linoleum floor is employed1 the fabric rugs and wall coverings should be plainer1 or of small all-over pattern4 ,avoid overemphasis of pattern or1 conversely1 too much monotony of plain surfaces4 ,the cheerful tile designs in ,armstrong's ,linoleum are particularly appropriate for the breakfast alcove or sun porch now found in many homes4 ,in a recent issue of ,the ,delineator1 ,martha ,hill ,cutler1 writing on 8,linoleum ,floors--,durable1 ,smart10 after saying that 8linoleum has now #8arrived' as an artistic as well as a practical possibility for every room in the house10 speaks particularly of the use of linoleum in the breakfast-room4 ,she says1 8,in a breakfast-room or sun-parlor one can do daring things4 ,there are fascinating possibilities in a linoleum design of brilliant colorings1 the black-and-orange1 for instance1 the green-and-white1 green-and-black1 or blue-and-green4 8,breakfast-rooms are almost always so small that rugs are not absolutely essential1 but plain rugs against these brilliant tiles as backgrounds are very effective4 ,brilliantly colored curtains to harmonize1 an unusual chintz or cretonne1 and painted furniture can be combined with them with colorful results40 ,sidenote3 ,for a ,group of ,rooms ,by using the same linoleum floor through a series of rooms1 it is possible to gain unity and a feeling of spaciousness4 ,on the second floor1 not infrequently the rooms open from a central hall or top stair landing4 ,there are a number of colors and designs in ,armstrong's ,linoleum that are specially suitable for groups of rooms because they lend themselves as a background for the draperies in each room1 and yet bind all the rooms together as a unit4 ,the gray jaspe1 plain dark gray1 and light gray linoleums are particularly appropriate with old ,colonial painted woodwork in white1 ivory1 or soft gray2 the brown jaspe1 plain dark brown or tan1 the parquetries1 and certain carpet patterns are equally appropriate with oak1 cypress1 gum1 or chestnut woodwork in the natural finish or painted woodwork in buff and tan4 ,sidenote3 ,for the ,bedroom ,for the bedroom1 no floor is so sanitary and so easily cared for as linoleum4 ,it appeals to the most fastidious4 ,and linoleum is not a cold floor--in fact1 it is as warm as any wood surface4 ,we have said that linoleum is made largely of cork and linseed oil4 ,cork is widely used for heat insulating purposes4 ,engineers regard it as good1 if not a better heat retainer than wood4 ,and a linoleum floor has certain advantages over wood floors4 ,there are no cracks or crevices to catch dust or harbor germs4 ,the oxidized linseed oil1 moreover1 has known germicidal powers that actually tend to destroy bacteria4 ,there are some very dainty small designs in delicate colors in ,armstrong's ,printed ,linoleum that are particularly suitable for bedrooms--blue-and-white1 pink-and-white1 green-and-blue1 and green-and-white4 ,bedroom floors like these1 or of plain light blue1 rose1 or light gray are very charming4 ,over the bedroom linoleum floor you will1 of course1 use small fabric rugs beside the bed1 in front of the dressing table1 or before the easy chair4 ,you would not leave a wood floor bare4 ,let us emphasize again that linoleum is a floor--and not merely a floor-covering4 ,perhaps in your home bedroom floors have been a problem because they are of soft wood1 which must be repainted frequently and which are always hard to keep looking well4 ,linoleum offers you new floors for old--and at relatively slight expense1 far less than the cost of putting in new wood floors4 ,remember that linoleum floors do not need periodical refinishing1 as does hardwood4 ,this is an additional saving4 ,sidenote3 ,for the ,sleeping-,porch ,many people do not consider a house complete nowadays unless it has a sleeping-porch4 ,here1 again1 to secure a thoroughly satisfactory floor is a problem4 ,but linoleum solves it nicely and economically4 ,granite linoleums1 which resemble terrazzo1 or a neat tile effect will be especially pleasing4 ,sidenote3 ,for the ,bathroom ,water is always being spilled upon the bathroom floor4 ,it rots wood2 it gets into the cracks of tiling and1 in time1 may cause the tiles to come up4 ,what is needed in a bathroom1 therefore1 is a floor that is proof against moisture1 easy to clean1 sanitary1 comfortable1 and exceptionally durable4 ,if laid properly--that is1 cemented down with waterproof cement--a linoleum floor in a bathroom will last for years4 ,the designs of ,armstrong's ,linoleum which are offered for the bathroom combine cleanable1 sanitary1 comfortable1 durable1 and beautiful qualities in the highest degree4 ,sidenote3 ,for the ,nursery ,in decorating the children's playroom1 a linoleum floor1 chosen in pattern to harmonize with the color scheme1 gives one an opportunity to work out a charming relationship between the floor1 the furniture1 and the draperies1 to suit the playroom idea4 ,in ,armstrong's ,linoleum1 there are a score of designs in pleasing matting and wood effects and carpet patterns especially appropriate for such a room4 ,and the floor need not be expensive--,armstrong's ,printed ,linoleum will last through childhood's romp and play4 ,and1 when the toys and games are put away for more mature interests1 the room may be refurnished at slight expense4 ,sidenote3 ,for the ,attic and ,sewing-,room ,in many homes1 the attic is being changed from a store-room into an attractive1 comfortable spare room at little expense4 ,the skillful use of odd pieces of furniture1 the pleasing blending of draperies1 and the covering of the floor with an attractive linoleum pattern will easily make this room one of the most interesting in the home4 ,whether the room is used as an extra sleeping-room or for sewing1 the advantages of a linoleum floor are obvious4 ,it is so easy to clean2 cuttings and threads are easily swept up2 they do not stick to the smooth-surfaced linoleum4 ,for a very small outlay1 you can transform the attic in your home into a usable1 attractive room4 ,sidenote3 ,for the ,kitchen1 ,pantry and ,laundry ,if your kitchen or pantry floor is the kind that requires you to spend hours with water pail and scrubbing brush and back-breaking labor to keep it clean1 it is time you change to a linoleum floor4 ,and1 even with linoleum floors1 many women find it hard to get away from the scrubbing habit4 ,most people scrub linoleum entirely too frequently4 ,a plain or inlaid linoleum floor should be thoroughly waxed with liquid floor wax4 ,the wax provides a coating which prevents the dirt from being ground into the surface4 ,such a floor needs only to be swept and then wiped with a damp cloth1 and the wax renewed every five to six weeks4 ,varnishing a printed linoleum floor will add to the life of the linoleum and make it easier to keep clean4 ,all these considerations hold equally true for vestibule1 laundry1 and closets4 ,there are many bright patterns in ,armstrong's ,linoleum for the kitchen or pantry from which you can make a selection that will exactly fit into your idea of what these rooms should look like4 ,sidenote3 ,the ,advantages of ,linoleum ,floors ,by way of summing up1 consider for just a moment what the qualities are that you really need and demand in the floors in your home4 ,certainly1 you want your floors to be durable4 ,and is there any floor you can think of--cost considered--that can approach a good linoleum in wearing quality8 ,next1 you demand sanitation4 ,do you know of any floor that excels linoleum in that respect8 ,most assuredly1 you want floors that are easy to keep clean4 ,have you not found linoleum easy to clean8 ,and you must have comfort4 ,is not linoleum easy underfoot8 ,but1 you say1 we must have warmth1 too4 ,certainly1 you must4 ,but you would hardly think of leaving the wood floor in your bedroom and living-room bare1 would you8 ,no1 you use rugs4 ,follow the same course1 then1 with your linoleum floors2 and you will find them equally as comfortable as hardwood4 ,in fact1 thickness for thickness1 linoleum is a better non-conductor of heat than wood is4 ,then1 finally1 you demand beauty and economy in your floors--and justly so4 ,as for color harmony1 hardwood has distinct limitations4 ,shades of brown and tan are about the only colors that are available4 ,but1 with linoleum1 the range of colors and patterns is well-nigh unlimited1 and your floors can thus be made an integral part of your general color scheme4 ,on this point1 the colorplates that accompany this book speak for themselves4 ,as to economy1 linoleum floors of good quality are less expensive today than the cheapest hardwood4 ,and they cost less to maintain1 too4 ,given reasonable care and proper treatment1 linoleum floors will last indefinitely1 without the periodic refinishing that all hardwood requires4 ,so you can see for yourself1 once you analyze the subject1 how remarkably linoleum does combine each and every one of the qualities you want the floors in your home to possess4 ,sidenote3 ,bureau of ,interior ,decoration ,naturally1 we want you to be thoroughly satisfied with your floors of ,armstrong's ,linoleum--not only as to wearing quality but in respect to pattern and color as well4 ,and1 since the selection of suitable linoleum floors to harmonize with the different types of furnishings and color schemes involves the application of the principles of interior decoration1 we have organized a ,bureau of ,interior ,decoration to answer any questions you may care to ask about the use of ,armstrong's ,linoleum in your home4 ,if you are planning to refurnish or redecorate your home1 write our ,bureau of ,interior ,decoration1 describing your furniture1 wallpaper1 rugs1 and the color scheme you have in mind4 ,our ,interior ,decorator will be glad to make suggestions that may be helpful to you1 and will send you lithographs of linoleum patterns that will make suitable floors for your home4 ,there is no charge or implied obligation for this service4 ,sidenote3 ,how ,to ,get ,armstrong's ,linoleum ,first1 get in touch with the merchant in home furnishings with whom you are accustomed to trade4 ,if he does not have on hand an adequate assortment of ,armstrong patterns to suit your taste1 ask him to show you his copy of the ,armstrong ,pattern ,book1 which contains colorplates of all of the two hundred and fifty designs and colorings in the ,armstrong line4 ,from this book1 you can select your first1 second1 and third choice2 and doubtless he will be glad to place an order for the pattern you desire4 ,certain patterns1 including plain colorings1 jaspes1 and carpet inlaids1 are carried in the factory in our ,cut-,order ,department2 and the merchant can order exact room sizes for you4 ,if1 however1 you have difficulty in getting just what you want1 please write us1 not forgetting to include the merchant's name and address4 ,then we shall do all in our power to see that you can secure what you require through some good store near you4 ,as manufacturers1 we sell only through the regular trade channels1 and1 therefore1 we cannot quote you prices4 ,in fact1 it is really to your advantage to buy through your dealer1 as he purchases ,armstrong's ,linoleum in large quantities1 and thus the transportation charges are much less than if a small quantity of linoleum were shipped direct from the factory4 ,sidenote3 ,our ,guarantee ,every yard of ,armstrong's ,linoleum is fully guaranteed to give satisfactory service4 ,your merchant will be authorized to make good to you any defect in manufacture1 either by replacing the linoleum or by making an adjustment satisfactory to you4 #a ,armstrong ,bureau of ,interior ,decoration4 ,how ,to ,care for ,linoleum ,floors ,a linoleum floor1 properly cared for1 is easier to clean and will retain its new and attractive appearance longer than any other kind of floor4 ,linoleum has a smooth1 unbroken surface1 without cracks and crevices to catch dirt and germs4 ,in ,armstrong's ,linoleum1 the colors used are bright and clear and will retain their luster and brilliancy for years4 ,as every housewife knows1 linoleum floors require less attention than wood floors2 but it is possible to lessen materially the work of caring for linoleum floors by observing the simple rules set forth in the paragraphs following4 ,sidenote3 ,waxing ,inlaid and ,plain ,linoleum ,when you install a new inlaid1 jaspe1 or plain linoleum floor1 it should first be washed carefully with tepid water and pure soap and then1 before it is tracked up1 waxed with a liquid floor wax1 rubbing the wax in very thoroughly4 ,after that1 you will care for your linoleum floor just as you would for a waxed floor4 ,a weighted brush1 such as is used for wood floors1 is convenient for polishing2 or a heavy brick1 wrapped in a soft cloth1 will serve4 ,the daily care of a waxed linoleum floor is simple4 ,ordinarily1 all that is needed is to go over the floor around the fabric rugs with a dry mop4 ,at doorways1 or where the traffic is greatest1 the wax coating will wear away1 and should be renewed at those points as often as appearance demands4 ,given this sort of care1 it is not necessary to scrub or wash linoleum floors1 except at rare intervals4 ,muddy footprints may be wiped up with a damp cloth1 as occasion requires4 ,any good floor wax1 such as ,johnson's ,liquid ,wax or ,old ,english ,brightener1 is suitable for use on linoleum floors4 ,most people prefer to use liquid wax because it is easier to apply than paste wax and permits evener distribution on the linoleum4 ,whether you use liquid or paste wax1 apply it very sparingly and be sure to rub it in thoroughly4 ,if you put the wax coating on too thick1 it will not harden properly4 ,as a result1 the excess wax will absorb and hold the dirt4 ,it will look greasy and unsightly1 and the floor will remain in a slippery condition4 ,sidenote3 ,varnishing ,printed ,linoleum ,many people find that printed linoleum wears better and retains its original freshness of coloring longer if given a coating of varnish or clear white shellac4 ,it is economical to use only a high-grade waterproof varnish or a clear white shellac1 as the cheaper grades are likely to scratch or turn white under water4 ,such varnishes as ,valspar or 8#fa0 ,floor ,varnish are recommended4 ,before varnishing or shellacking1 the linoleum must be cleaned carefully and should be thoroughly dried4 ,the varnish should be applied as evenly as possible and allowed to dry twelve hours before the floor is used4 ,at least two coats should be applied over new linoleum2 thereafter1 the varnish need be renewed but once or twice a year1 according to the wear on the floor4 ,care should be used in revarnishing to avoid streaked and spotty effects4 ,sidenote3 ,washing ,linoleum ,in the kitchen1 pantry1 or bathroom1 where water is spilled and there is naturally more dirt1 owing to the ordinary household activities1 than on other floors of the house1 washing linoleum will1 at times1 become necessary4 ,however1 going over the waxed linoleum floor with a dry or waxed mop will usually keep it clean4 ,as previously stated1 scrubbing linoleum should rarely be necessary4 ,in washing the linoleum1 warm1 sudsy water1 made with a mild soap1 such as ,ivory1 will clean a linoleum floor thoroughly4 ,it is best to wash and dry only about a square yard at a time1 rinsing the linoleum with clear water and wiping it up thoroughly4 ,never flood the surface of the linoleum with water1 nor allow the water to stand around the edges or seams4 ,sidenote3 ,avoid ,alkali ,soaps and ,powders ,contrary to the idea held by a good many housewives1 certain advertised cleaning soaps and washing powders are not good to use on linoleum4 ,practically all of these cleansers contain strong alkali or caustics which are positively injurious4 ,more harm is done to linoleum by the use of such agents than in any other way4 ,the chemical action of these substances disintegrates the oxidized linseed oil and cork in linoleum just as it destroys the varnish on hardwood4 ,a good rule is to avoid the use of soda1 lye1 or potash cleansing powders and strong scouring soaps altogether4 ,a good mild soap is all that is necessary4 ,sidenote3 ,polishing ,linoleum ,after washing with soap and water1 inlaid linoleum1 particularly1 should be polished with a soft cloth or brush4 ,the wax finish may be dulled somewhat by the washing1 but is quickly restored by a brisk rubbing4 ,where the wax has been removed by washing1 it should be renewed at once4 ,sidenote3 ,heavy ,furniture on ,linoleum ,the casters ordinarily used are apt to cut into linoleum if the furniture is heavy1 therefore it is best to use glass or metal sliding shoes which have a wide bearing surface and no rough edges4 ,they are made in several sizes1 have a shank similar to that on a regular caster1 and will fit the same sockets4 ,heavy felt casters may be purchased at the furniture stores which are also recommended for use on linoleum floors4 ,always lay a piece of carpet on the floor1 or a board1 just as over a hardwood floor1 when moving very heavy furniture1 to prevent marring the surface of the linoleum4 ,how ,to ,lay ,linoleum ,floors ,in the past1 linoleum has been regarded by many as a temporary floor-covering4 ,not much care has been used in laying it4 ,but you want well-finished floors in your home that will need a minimum amount of attention as the years go by4 ,for this reason1 we strongly recommend that you have your linoleum floors installed by the merchant from whom you buy the goods4 ,experience has taught their layers how to cut the linoleum so as to avoid waste and how to lay it to prevent buckling and cracking1 conditions which result from faulty workmanship4 ,sidenote3 ,skilled ,workmanship ,required ,insist that your linoleum be laid right4 ,if the merchant does not employ skilled mechanics to do this work1 go to a merchant who has a staff of layers and who will guarantee his laying4 ,he will make a charge for the cost of labor and materials2 but1 in the long run1 it will prove greater economy for you to pay well to have your linoleum laid properly than to have the laying done in a makeshift manner in order to save a few cents per yard4 ,,lay ,,linoleum ,,as ,a ,,permanent ,,floor ,when you purchase a good grade of linoleum to be installed as a floor in your living-room1 dining-room1 or even in the kitchen or bathroom1 naturally you desire to have it put down as a permanent floor4 ,the most satisfactory way to install linoleum is to cement it down solidly over a lining of builders' deadening felt paper4 ,this will give you a permanent floor1 smooth1 firm1 without cracks or crevices4 ,owing to the variations in moisture conditions1 any wood underflooring will expand in summer and dry out in winter1 leaving cracks4 ,linoleum cannot be cemented directly to such a wood underflooring without possibility of damage4 ,one of the chief advantages of the felt lining is that it tends to take up this expansion and contraction1 thus saving the linoleum floor from breaking or cracking4 ,in addition1 the felt acts as a cushion1 deadening sound and adding to the warmth and comfort of the floor1 making it delightful to walk or stand on4 ,should it become necessary1 in time1 to remove such a linoleum floor1 this can be done easily1 without damage to the linoleum4 ,sidenote3 ,laying ,linoleum ,over ,felt ,paper ,leading contract linoleum layers and good stores have adopted the felt paper method of laying linoleum and recommend its use to their customers4 ,a brief description is given here of this method in order that you may understand how the work should be done4 ,if your merchant is not yet equipped to lay linoleum by this method1 ask him to write for a copy of our linoleum layers' handbook1 8,detailed ,directions for ,laying and ,caring for ,linoleum10 which lists all of the materials and equipment needed1 and includes illustrations showing the several steps in laying linoleum by this improved method4 ,a copy of this handbook will also be sent to you1 without charge1 upon request4 ,in cementing linoleum down over felt paper1 the felt is first cut into lengths to go across the short way of the room4 ,the quarter-round floor molding is removed1 and the felt fitted snugly at each end4 ,a linoleum paste is then applied to the undersurface of the felt1 which is then rolled or pressed down until it adheres firmly to the floor4 ,the lengths of the linoleum are next pressed in position crosswise to the direction of the felt strips1 or the long way of the room4 ,one piece is laid at a time4 ,the surface of the felt under each strip of linoleum is well coated with paste1 except for four to six inches along each end and side and along the seams1 which spaces are left bare4 ,the linoleum is put down and rolled4 ,after the paste has begun to dry1 the free edges of the linoleum are trimmed to fit neatly at all points4 ,then waterproof linoleum cement 7a kind of glue7 is applied to the felt along all edges and seams back under the linoleum for a distance of four to six inches4 ,this cement makes the floor perfectly water-tight4 ,finally1 the linoleum is well rolled with a heavy roller to insure perfect adhesion at all points4 ,weights1 such as face brick or sand bags1 are placed against each other lengthwise along all edges and seams to press the linoleum firmly against the felt while the cement dries4 ,after twenty-four hours1 the bricks are removed2 and the floor is ready for use4 ,the molding is put back into place1 and the floor is cleaned thoroughly4 ,if plain or inlaid linoleum has been laid1 it should be waxed at once and polished4 ,,laying ,,direct ,,on ,,wood ,,floors ,a less permanent way to install linoleum is to tack or nail it directly on the wood floor4 ,where a more or less temporary floor covering is desired1 as in the cases of tenants on short leases1 etc41 this method may be made to suffice4 ,however1 wherever the linoleum is to be installed as a permanent floor1 instead of wood or other floors1 we strongly recommend that it be laid over felt paper as just described4 ,directions are given in the paragraphs following for laying linoleum directly on wood or concrete floors1 without the use of a felt lining4 ,this method is described at greater length in the handbook previously mentioned1 8,detailed ,directions for ,laying and ,caring for ,linoleum10 but the main steps in the process are here fully outlined4 ,sidenote3 ,preparation for ,laying ,linoleum ,the floor should be perfectly dry and clean1 the surface smooth and even4 ,all cracks should be filled1 nails should be removed1 and the uneven edges of the boards planed off1 if necessary4 ,the quarter-round molding should be taken up carefully from the baseboard all around the room4 ,in cold weather1 linoleum becomes brittle4 ,if you are laying your floor in winter1 be sure to let the roll of linoleum stand on end in a warm room for at least forty-eight hours before unrolling it4 ,sidenote3 ,laying the ,linoleum ,when ready to lay1 first measure the linoleum carefully and1 if possible1 cut it to run lengthwise in the opposite direction from the boards in the floor4 ,trim it to inch short at each end1 just so the edge of the linoleum will be covered by the quarter-round molding when this is replaced4 ,along the side walls the linoleum should not be placed tight against the baseboard1 but1 just as at the end1 a space of to inch wide should be left4 ,the edges of the linoleum at the seams1 however1 should be butted tightly against each other1 with the pattern properly matched4 ,laid in this manner1 the linoleum will have an opportunity to expand underneath the edge of the quarter-round molding4 ,in replacing the quarter-round1 do not fasten it down tight against the surface of the linoleum4 ,the quarter-round must not bind the material at any point1 but should be nailed to the baseboard in such manner as to permit the lifting out of the linoleum easily should retrimming become necessary4 ,should a buckle or air-bubble develop in the linoleum1 it must be smoothed out1 and the edge of the linoleum under the floor molding cut back a trifle1 if needed to take up the expansion4 ,do not put any brads in the linoleum during the expansion period4 ,sidenote3 ,fitting ,around ,pipes and ,projections ,care must be taken to fit the linoleum neatly around radiators1 waste pipes1 doorways1 wall projections1 etc4 ,where possible1 the gas stove1 kitchen range1 and other movable equipment should be disconnected1 and linoleum laid under it carefully to insure tight joints4 ,good workmanship in fitting adds much to the appearance of the linoleum floor4 ,sidenote3 ,fastening ,linoleum ,in many cases it will be found that it is not necessary to fasten linoleum to the floor at all1 when it has been laid under the quarter-round molding at the sides and ends4 ,the molding itself will be all that is required to hold the material in place4 ,where it becomes necessary1 however1 to fasten the linoleum to wood floors1 use ,no4 #ah1 -inch1 wire brads4 ,never use carpet tacks4 ,the brads should be set in to inch from the edge and should be spaced about four inches apart along the edges and three inches apart on seams4 ,the brads should be driven down until the heads are lost in the surface of the linoleum4 ,,laying ,,linoleum ,,on ,a ,,concrete ,,floor ,the only way to fasten linoleum to concrete in your laundry1 entry-way1 bathroom1 or any other concrete floor1 is by means of paste and waterproof cement4 ,here1 again1 it is advisable to have your linoleum cemented down over a lining of deadening felt paper1 according to the method previously described4 ,again we recommend that you have this work done by your merchant's experienced workmen4 ,but should you decide to lay the material without the use of the felt lining1 the following directions are given for your guidance4 ,please note that the linoleum should never be laid over concrete floors in basements which are in direct contact with the earth beneath unless the concrete has first been thoroughly waterproofed4 ,the moisture in the earth will inevitably come up through the concrete and loosen the linoleum4 ,waterproofing a concrete floor must be done by a roofing or waterproofing contractor who understands thoroughly how to do this work4 ,sidenote3 ,laying the ,linoleum ,the method of laying linoleum over a concrete floor is similar to the final operation of laying linoleum over felt1 as described on pages #da to #db4 ,use ,armstrong's ,linoleum ,paste for pasting the centers of the linoleum strips to the concrete1 and ,armstrong's ,waterproof ,linoleum ,cement for gluing the edges and seams to the concrete floor1 so as to prevent water from getting underneath the fabric4 ,after removing all dirt and dust and filling the expansion joints with plaster of ,paris1 apply ,armstrong's ,linoleum ,paste to the concrete floor with a wide brush to within four to six inches of each side and end of the linoleum strip1 which space is left bare for the later application of the cement4 ,put the width of linoleum in place and roll it out at once1 before the paste dries4 ,repeat the same operation with the succeeding strips of linoleum1 butting the edges of the strips together tightly4 ,trim the ends to fit snugly against the wall4 ,then lift the edges of the strips of linoleum along the sides and ends and apply ,armstrong's ,waterproof ,linoleum ,cement with a paint brush to the concrete floor as far back as the paste will permit4 ,remove any cement that gets on the surface at once with alcohol4 ,finally1 roll the linoleum with an iron roller to insure perfect adhesion4 ,weights1 such as pressed brick1 sandbags1 or other heavy objects1 should then be placed along all seams and edges1 and allowed to remain for not less than twenty-four hours4 ,illustration3 ,look for the ,,circle 8,a0 trademark on the burlap back ,illustration3,the green tile surrounding the blazing fire in this comfortable modern home has been chosen to harmonize with the green carpet-patterned linoleum4 ,a touch of the complementary red1 and the blues and yellows are blended in the fabrics to make the room cheerful4 ,it is not overcrowded with furniture1 but rather is arranged to give a spacious1 open effect4 ,comfort and utility are two of the primary requisites of every living-room1 characteristics not only of this room1 but also of the floor of ,armstrong's ,linoleum1 ,carpet ,inlaid ,pattern #geb4 ,,armstrong ,,bureau ,,of ,,interior ,,decoration1 ,,lancaster1 ,,pa4 ,illustration3 ,the color note of this young girl's room has been carried into the floor--,armstrong's ,blue ,jasp ,linoleum4 ,it aids materially in contributing a bright1 personal touch to the room4 ,combined with attractive draperies1 painted furniture1 and simple rugs1 any of the jasp or plain light-colored linoleums will give a similar charming effect2 these1 together with the interesting carpet inlaids or matting patterns1 offer a wide opportunity for originality in selecting a distinctive floor as the starting-point in the decorative scheme4 ,,armstrong ,,bureau ,,of ,,interior ,,decoration1 ,,lancaster1 ,,pa4 ,illustration3 ,here the gray jasp linoleum floor has been used to group the entire second floor suite as a decorative unit4 ,the gray jasp is particularly pleasing as a background for fabric rugs and other furnishings4 ,such a floor is always perfectly sanitary1 and1 waxed occasionally1 is always attractive in appearance4 ,,armstrong ,,bureau ,,of ,,interior ,,decoration1 ,,lancaster1 ,,pa4 ,illustration3 ,in many homes the attic is being changed from a store-room into an attractive1 comfortable spare room1 and at little expense4 ,in this attic the outlay was slight4 ,a skillful use of odd pieces of furniture and the pleasing blending of the draperies and coverings with the attractive carpet pattern of the printed linoleum floor have made this room one of the most interesting in the home4 ,in such a room ,armstrong's ,printed ,linoleum will give splendid service for years1 and also aids materially in the working-out of the decorative plan4 ,,armstrong ,,bureau ,,of ,,interior ,,decoration1 ,,lancaster1 ,,pa4 ,illustration3 ,this bedroom is bright and comfortable1 and still has enough restraint to give a feeling of peace and repose4 ,the curtains1 paper1 and decorations are in perfect harmony with the pleasing carpet pattern of the linoleum floor1 which blends with the fabric rugs and serves as a background for the entire color scheme4 ,,armstrong ,,bureau ,,of ,,interior ,,decoration1 ,,lancaster1 ,,pa4 ,illustration3 ,in this comfortable1 home-like1 hall living-room the floor of ,armstrong's ,parquetry ,linoleum1 ,pattern ,no4 #fij1 makes a definite contribution to the pleasing decorative scheme4 ,the furnishings are simple1 not expensive1 but have been selected because of their color values and their relation to each other4 ,and the parquetry linoleum is not only less costly than wood1 but it is more sanitary and much easier to take care of4 ,,armstrong ,,bureau ,,of ,,interior ,,decoration1 ,,lancaster1 ,,pa4 ,illustration3 ,both the color and the texture of objects used in a child's room should suggest cleanliness1 freshness1 cheerfulness and durability4 ,at the same time they should represent his interests and his pleasures4 ,to all these ends linoleum is expressly adapted4 ,the walls1 furniture1 hangings and toys in this room have been selected to harmonize with these ideas and with the linoleum floor1 which is ivory1 turquoise blue and light gray in color4 ,illustration3 ,the color combination rather than expensive furnishings makes these bungalow rooms inviting4 ,floors of ,armstrong's ,brown ,jasp ,linoleum1 brown furniture1 and tan walls make a good background for the color of the curtains1 cushions1 vases1 and lampshade4 ,the decorative value of books is well demonstrated in this picture4 ,,armstrong ,,bureau ,,of ,,interior ,,decoration1 ,,lancaster1 ,,pa4 ,illustration3 ,beauty and good taste are at once apparent in this well-appointed home4 ,the floor is not oak1 as one might suppose1 but is ,armstrong's ,parquetry ,linoleum1 as beautiful in its graining as hardwood1 and more comfortable to walk on4 ,the cost is cut in half4 ,these permanent linoleum floors will never require expensive refinishing4 ,,armstrong ,,bureau ,,of ,,interior ,,decoration1 ,,lancaster1 ,,pa4 ,illustration3 ,in this cheery dining-room the early ,american furniture is happily combined with the ,chinese rug and the brown jasp linoleum floor 7,color ,no4 #aa74 ,one feels that this room has been planned in good taste and that the linoleum floor has contributed its part to the atmosphere of refinement4 ,more comfortable than wood1 and easier to keep clean1 permanently laid linoleum floors have their place in the modern home4--,,armstrong ,,bureau ,,of ,,interior ,,decoration1 ,,lancaster1 ,,pa4 ,illustration3 ,plain dark gray linoleum makes an appropriate floor for old-fashioned houses--either in new-old houses1 or to replace the worn floors of houses being remodelled4 ,in this stately ,colonial home1 the linoleum harmonizes with the beautiful ivory woodwork1 and makes a perfect background for the ,oriental rugs4 ,illustration3 ,an atmosphere of simple elegance is attained by the beautifully proportioned wall spaces1 and the slender-legged ,french furniture used in this room4 ,in harmony is the gray ,jasp ,linoleum which1 waxed and polished1 makes a perfect floor4 ,because of its neutrality1 it is not only a good background for the furniture1 but likewise for the rug and fabrics employed to make the room bright and attractive4 ,illustration3 ,in this dining-room1 the soft brown linoleum floor blends with the beautiful wood of the ,sheraton furniture1 the colorful draperies1 and the fine rug4 ,linoleum is the logical floor for the dining-room1 because it is so easy to care for4 ,it is a quiet floor2 also a particular advantage4 ,illustration3 ,in this home of evident culture and refinement1 linoleum floors were installed in every room1 instead of wood4 ,in the living-room1 the plain floor1 and the unobtrusive walls and curtains1 are in pleasing balance with the figured ,oriental rugs and upholsteries4 ,the smooth surface of the floor1 without cracks or crevices1 suggests a feeling of fastidious cleanliness4 ,an atmosphere of restfulness pervades the room4 ,illustration3 ,this interesting use1 after the ,european manner1 of a carpet inlaid linoleum floor through hall and living-room1 illustrates how effectively a pattern can be employed in floors1 as well as on walls and in hangings4 ,the small all-over design gives the effect of a rich carpet1 and yet the floor is sanitary1 easy to care for1 and durable4 ,illustration3 ,this sun parlor shows the decorative value of a linoleum floor4 ,here a marble design has been combined with a plain linoleum border4 ,the charm of the room is due to the happy relation of the floor design and the interior architecture1 as well as to the arrangement of the furniture4 ,neither too much nor too little is used--so that a spacious effect is obtained4