Traditional decorating consists of classic themes, colors
and fabrics to give a home a classic and timeless look. The
emphasis on furniture selection should be on pieces that
reflect a refined sense of style with proportion and
symmetry, along with soft curved lines with an abundance of
detail and ornamentation.

The choice of colors should be simple, tasteful, and
inviting. Soft and neutral colors are used on the walls,
while colors, such as dark reds and dark greens, are
utilized in the room through the use of fabrics. Also,
textured or patterned wallpaper is incorporated into the
room.

One method to add a pattern to a room without hanging
wallpaper is to use stencils or vinyl letters. A fleur de
lis, floral pattern, or a thick vertical stripe stencil can
be traced and painted on the walls to add interest and
beauty to the room.

The use of fabrics, such as Damask, Romance Brocade, or
velvet is featured throughout the home. Also, draperies
topped with swags or scalloped valances cover sheer curtains
and add elegance to the room. Tie backs and heavy tassels
pull drapery panels to the sides to give the curtain a
scalloped look as well as to enhance the window. Other
window treatments include shutters, and under treatments of
pinch pleated sheers. Cornices may also be featured.

The styles of furniture vary and the range of furniture
periods goes from the Renaissance to the Victorian era.
This time period includes Queen Anne furniture with its
curved legs and smooth lines, Baroque furniture with it
ornate designs, and Chippendale with its cabriole legs,
ball-and-claw foot, and broken pediment scroll top on tall
case pieces.

Traditional furniture is generally made of hardwood, such as
cherry and mahogany, and has fine carved details, with
inlays. These furniture pieces are usually heavy and dark
in color. A traditional room might also use lighter woods
as long as the lines of each piece are classic. Furnishings
for the bedroom include a four poster bed, a lowboy, a
highboy, or an armoire. Dining room furniture can consist
of a large table with abundant seating, a buffet, sideboard,
or a breakfront cabinet that show off a variety of china,
glassware, and silver. The china may be classic gold rimmed
or a simple floral design. Among the upholstered pieces is
oversized seating, and an ottoman or two can be placed in
the living room. Also, sofas and chairs are upholstered,
along with the seats on formal dining room chairs. The
addition of Persian and oriental rugs over hardwood floors
or atop carpeting gives the room a warm feel and makes it
very inviting.

By incorporating accessories, it helps tie in the furniture
pieces. These accessories emphasize details, such as
buttons tufted onto ottomans and needlepoint stitched onto
throw pillows. Furthermore, furniture pieces that contain
bronze or pewter nail head trim add pizzazz. For art,
include mirrors, paintings with still life, and family
portraits. The frames can be gold leaf or bronze.

Lastly, the lighting should also reflect the time period.
Lamps such as crystal chandeliers and wall sconces help
complete the traditional look. Other lighting includes
lamps with silk shades and floor lamps that are fairly plain
and ivory or white in color.

Giorgina Devereaux is the creator of AskGiorgina.com, which features questions, answers, and ideas on home decor and furniture. For more information, please visit http://www.AskGiorgina.com