How to Choose Traditional Furniture

Furniture styles can range from traditional and classic to contemporary and modern with a range of interpretations influencing each style. From Spanish style to Italian style furniture, consumers have a variety of choices. When searching for traditional furniture, you generally only have to concern yourself with a few considerations to reach a decision. Regardless of how a designer interprets his line of traditional furniture, you can make an informed decision by focusing on a few key guidelines when choosing your next piece.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Decide what iconic colors of traditional furniture best suit your home decor. From sofas to round tables to desks, iconic colors such as cigar brown, mahogany, French walnut and oak remain the staple colors for traditional home and office furniture.

2. Consider accents when choosing traditional furniture. Traditional furniture is generally crafted with artistry and classic appointments that include detailed carvings, inlays and marble and wrought iron accents. The Henredon's Marseilles Collection is a fitting example. Henredon's pieces range from beds to floor mirrors to entertainment centers; all of which are available as part of traditional furniture sets.

3. Evaluate the quality of the wood. Traditional furniture is esteemed for the depth of its design and its use of real solid woods. The best traditional furniture feature a natural element and graining to offer an unprocessed look, which is what buyers commonly look for when choosing a traditional piece. Smoother veneer finishes are also available.

4. Consider the quality of fabric when choosing traditional sofas. Look for designs that offer detail and solid construction. (Measure solid construction in the quality of the stitching, padding and wood supports.) When choosing fabric upholstered furniture, look for clean lines, cushioned seating with extra depth and interlocking constructions for extra strength and support. These basic standards should guarantee a solid choice for most traditional pieces.

5. Opt for a new spin on traditional furniture. Collections like that of Vincent Thomas Leman feature old world craftsmanship with updated designs to offer new ideas while still incorporating the signature aspects of traditional furniture.

Tips & Warnings

• Traditional sofas and chairs are generally marked by flared arms which complement a more casual setting.

References

• Henredon
• Vincent Leman