Traditional Style Home Decorating

Traditional style interiors are refined and polished.

Traditional style home interior design doesn't adhere to any single traditional style, but is a mix of polished, classic decorating styles, such as British Colonial revival, French country, 18th century English and 19th century neoclassic.

Window Treatments

Traditional style window treatments tend to be formal and fully tailored. Pinch pleat draperies are a classic traditional style, as are box-pleated and knob-mounted curtains. Tailored swag valances are commonplace to traditional interiors and are often embellished with fringe and tassels. Traditional fabric choices include velvet, damask, silk and even linen.

Furnishings

Traditional style furniture, despite its tendency toward formality, is meant to be comfortable. Upholstered pieces, such as tall wing chairs and low camelback sofas, are grouped together to promote intimate conversations. For added comfort, a coffee table or an occasional table is within easy reach from every seat. The odd piece of modern furniture is acceptable, as long as it blends into the room.

Accent Pieces

Other common elements of a traditional home include wall sconces, brass table lamps, crystal chandeliers, still-life oil paintings, large gilded mirrors and oriental rugs. Everyday items such as books, globes and framed photos take on the formality of traditional decor and become leather-bound libraries, globes in wooden floor stands, and displays of gold-framed photographs.

References

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