A Guide To Furniture Styles

Furniture designs are grouped in five basic categories: traditional, country, oriental, contemporary and casual. However, there are wide variations within these large groups. The diversity of furniture styles reflects the cultural, economical and political differences between people.

Traditional furniture

This term refers to the furniture that was made during the 18th century. It is characterized by a busy, yet majestic look, with carvings, columns, pilasters, pediments, animal heads and masks. These furniture pieces were usually made from dark wood, such as cherry, oak, walnut or mahogany. The ornate features were created manually by talented craftsmen. Fabrics included brocades, damasks, tapestries and prints.

Country furniture

Also called Early American or Colonial furniture, this furniture style has evolved from the European traditional furniture adapted to the early American rugged life. The heavy and elaborate carvings have been replaced with more simple turnings, oriented to functionality. The furniture pieces were made from softer wood, such as maple, pine or birch. Fabrics used patterns or checks.

Oriental furniture

Oriental furniture is governed by simplicity and functionality, reflecting the oriental cultural elements. The design often includes simple lines, long curves and painted finishings. Fabrics include cotton or satin in bright colors. Prints featured animals or countryside scenes.

Contemporary furniture

The main characteristics of this furniture style are simple and clean lines, with no carvings or ornate features. These furniture pieces often feature geometrical forms and are built of light wood. Functionality has taken precedent over rich and elaborate looks.

The Art Deco sub-style features exotic wood furniture in bright colors, vertical lines and round corners. Modern furniture includes polished surfaces, geometric shapes, colorful vinyl and plastics along with plywood, steel and aluminium and beautiful curves - especially in chairs and sofas. The urban sub-style features small pieces of furniture to fit an apartment, built from black finish or light wood with brushed aluminium and glass.

Casual furniture

This furniture style is a mixture of contemporary and country elements, focusing on comfort and functionality. Comfort and practical issues are prevalent in design aspects. The furniture pieces are built from materials such as pine, oak, marble and birch. The fabrics are dark-colored to enhance durability.

Home interior designers take an innovative approach, borrowing elements and accents from different styles to build unique furniture pieces. Contemporary furniture sometimes incorporates traditional features to create subtle and understated meanings. Furniture trends are much more flexible nowadays and ultimately it all comes down to personal taste.