The Mission Style movement embodied simple lines both horizontal and vertical.  Especially popular was way that wood was sewn to emphasize the natural grain.  Special detail was paid to artisanship and quality of work.  Eventually the style was successfully meshed with the Art and Crafts and Art Nouveau styles to create a simple, yet organic atmosphere.

The Mission Style originates in the late 1900’s and refers to the movement of Spanish missionaries in California.  Its main influences were Gustav Stickley and Frank Lloyd Wright.  Gustav Stickley was founder of The Craftsman, a periodical dedicated to the philosophy of handmade furniture and decoration.  Both believed that a home should be constructed into its environment, making as little an impact as possible.  They also believed that an open concept home encouraged family interaction and that increasing the amount of elements that were built in, bookshelves for example, made the most of the space and required less extra furniture.

These elements were also true of the art and decoration.  Simple but well built elements like lamps, were essential in Mission Style homes.  When this style met the Arts and Crafts influence, the Mission Style Tiffany lamp was born.  These slim, wood-based lamps are embellished with geometric glass shades that offer a soft amber glow.

The mission style is still very much in demand.  Mission style tiffany lamps offer a certain amount of structure to a room, as well as ambiance and texture.  Obviously not ideal for super modern layouts, but even in some cases, the straight lines and geometric forms are the perfect compliment.  It’s steady popularity and iconic status ensures that this style is still relevant.