What Style is Your Style?

There are many styles of furniture. For example, Early American, Danish, Arts & Craft, French Provincial, English, Country and many, many more.

However, when you are buying a new house or redecorating a room, think of style in four categories:

Traditional style as Home Fashion expert, Margaret DeGange says “supports classic lines and understated details”…. “Early English, French, Italian provincial or even colonial American pieces may be blended or mixed into the space”.

Contemporary style is evidenced by bold colors, clean lines. It is often overscaled, upholstery emphasizes a lack of clutter (no skirts, ruffles, bullion or florals). The bedroom and dining furniture is the opposite of ornate.

Casual style focuses on comfort. It is warm and comfy - often oversized. Fabrics are usually soft and low luster. Bedroom and dining room pieces often have a rugged or warm look.

Formal furniture styles generally take a page from furnishings in historical buildings and homes. Fine formal furniture generally features detailed moldings, gild and veneering. The sofas and chairs tend to be tightly upholstered in luxurious fabrics.

We have just touched the surface of furniture styles. Which is your style? You do not have to be one or the other. Many of our customers say they are eclectic.

To learn more about furniture styles, read Margaret DeGange’s article in the July, 2007 issue of Furniture World (www.furninfo.com).