Traditional style provides a homey refuge away from the bright lights and hard edges of the modern world, full of soft curves, lustrous wood and warmth that remind you of visits with Grandma. Never cutting-edge, never cold, but always classic.
The colors of a traditional room wrap you in a comforting hug. Shun extreme brights, darks and colors that could be considered contemporary (save your fuchsia throw for another room). And while you want bold contrast in a modern room, a traditional room calls for a smooth melding of whatever colors you choose.
Cover your floor with traditional Persian or Oriental rugs, or with more inexpensive but classic rug designs. They provide color and texture, and connect your floor to the overhead elements.
While traditional light fixtures tend to use a lot of silk shades, GREENCulture offers wonderful alternatives that capture the same look without the cruelty. Use linen, cotton or glass shades in white or ivory colors for a soft diffusion of light that complements your inviting interior. If it looks like a timeless design, it's a fit for your decor and will usually exhibit graceful curves, careful attention to detail and is finished in brass, iron, or another metal that evokes ageless beauty.
Because the category of traditional furniture spans hundreds of years and styles, it can vary wildly in looks. Some traditional furniture is best used to attain a 'formal look' due to massive proportion and elaborate, rigid detail. This isn't appropriate for a 'traditional look.' What you're looking for is traditional furniture that is more comfortable, less ostentatious and has a more relaxed air. Aim for a curvilinear look in your traditional room. Ornamentation can include some light carvings, dark staining and low key upholstery.
The fun part of accessorizing traditionally styled rooms is that there is no lack of items to do the job. Do you love your mom's silver tea service? Display it! Proud of your china? Display it! You get the picture. Other great accessories include mirrors, prints in a matching frame, those old, musty book collections of classic literature you have in your attic, and particularly pretty lamps and vases. If your room doesn't have crown molding, it may worth your time and money to invest in some. Fabrics can range from floral to subdued color patterns in geometric or tone-on-tone designs.
By: James Allen