Traditional Interior Decoration

Traditional interiors are formal and draw on multiple influences.

Traditional-style interior decoration has roots in multiple countries and eras. It's typical for one traditionally decorated room to combine classic, tailored and formal design elements from England, France, Italy and the United States in one space.

Lighting

Because traditional style comes from so many eras and places, traditional lighting has wide-ranging possibilities. Brass, bronze and pewter lamps are more traditional than chrome; table and floor lamps with ivory silk or green glass shades are classics. Any formal chandelier fits the style, as do wall sconces with etched glass shades, or sconces heavily draped in crystals.

Draperies

Traditional draperies are always formal and tailored. Styles include tailored swags, box-pleat valances, pinch-pleat draperies and embroidered sheer panels. Curtains typically reach all the way to the floor, which is the most formal drapery length. Fabrics tend to be heavy and plentiful--most traditional window treatments use many yards of materials. Pompoms, tassels and fringe are commonly added decorations.

Walls

Wallpaper and stenciled borders are representative of traditional decor as long as their motifs are classic, such as English floral, fleur de lis or interlocking patterns reminiscent of the Victorian era. Traditional wall colors tend to be deep and saturated: plum-red walls with light gray trim would be fitting. Oil paintings and large mirrors are very common to traditional walls, as are framed portraits.

References

• "Style Traditions: Recreating Period Interiors"; Stephen Calloway; 1990