Formal Decorating Style

Decorating
Written By Susan Newberry

FORMAL DECORATING STYLE

What is formal interior design? If you prefer a more elegant, traditional look, chances are your style might be formal. According to the Spruce, “formal décor can be a classic style that is both beautiful and functional” and is characterized by the details in the room.

Characteristics of Formal Style Décor

  • Matching furniture and accessories

  • Elaborate window treatments often with tassels and fringe

  • Antique furniture with lots of detail

  • Artwork in intricate frames such as gold leaf and metallics

  • Persian and Oriental Rugs

  • Crystal and brass chandeliers and light fixtures

  • Symmetrical balance

  • The fireplace is the focal point

  • Molding details such as elaborate baseboard and crown moldings

Most traditional-style homes use a neutral color scheme with pops of color in the artwork and floral arrangements.

Today’s homes often lack the details characteristic of yesterday’s more traditional homes. With that said, there are ways to make your home more traditional.

TRADITIONAL DOES NOT HAVE TO BE STUFFY

Does formal mean stuffy?

Traditional design is first and foremost classic design. Unlike trendy, traditional design stands the test of time. Think of it as adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to your space. I’ll even go further and name this style - modern traditional - traditional decor mixing classic and modern details with a touch of formality.

How to make your home have a traditional look:

If you like the classic style that traditional brings, but your space lacks the detail of a formal space, why not consider adding one or more of the items below.

  • Add moldings – baseboards, crown moldings, ceiling detail.

  • Add detailed and layered window coverings

  • Add bling through metallics

  • Select furniture with curves – cabriole furniture legs and curved sofa styles.

  • Use traditional patterns in upholstery and wallpaper – damasks, brocades, mix florals with stripes.

  • Be symmetrical in your decorating; furniture and lighting should go in pairs.

  • Use large chandeliers with ornate details that make a statement.

Formal design is not for you? Prefer a more casual look? Next time we’ll discuss casual design.

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Have a great week! Thanks for stopping by.

Until next time…

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Susan Newberry

Hi, I’m Susan! I’ve spent the last 10 years building my online company. I’ve always loved everything to do with design. In fact, after raising my kids, I decided to go to school and get my degree in Interior Design. While running my own interior design company, I started teaching and found that teaching was what I really loved. Combine that with Interior Design and well, you could say I was on cloud nine. I always loved the technical side of design which led me to graphic design and after studying graphic design, I was encouraged to open an Etsy shop to sell some of my creations. With my attention to detail and being somewhat of a perfectionist, graphic design made perfect sense. In December of 2018, I decided to retire from teaching and devote myself full time to my business and I haven’t looked back since! I love designing art for the home and would love to create something special for you.

It’s true what they say, “Love what you do, and you will never work a day in your life.”

https://www.susannewberrydesigns.com/
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