Traditional Style

Hello there! How was everyone's week? Mine was crazy! I had tons of homework and assignments due... yet I somehow managed to sneak some time in for this entry, so enjoy!

San Diego, California

I visited my family in San Diego over the Christmas holidays. Walks along the beach, sleeping in, and not needing to wear my jacket was just what I needed. Anyways, during my visit I stayed in my cousin's home. It was beautiful, with large rooms and a gorgeous pool. What I loved most about the house was its traditional architecture and interior design. The décor showed functionality, and reflected the attitude and personality of the homeowners. I grew up living with Traditional style, and the majority of the people around me have also decorated their house in that style. But what is traditional style, you ask? 

Substantial curtains and symmetrical décor are shown in my cousin's living room. The focal point is the grand fireplace.

Traditional style is inspired by old European and early American style. It is a combination of many different eras, which is why some people call it a timeless style. Traditional architecture features use of brick or wood, simple rooflines, symmetrical windows, and details such as a coffered ceiling and a fluted column for the exterior.

Chippendale chairs surround my cousin's mahogany dining table. Symmetry is again shown with the two china cabinets on each side of the curtains.

 Inside the house, it is formal and ornate, yet still comfortable and never cluttered. Traditionally decorated rooms usually have these key elements: crown mouldings,  white trims, classically styled furniture, and some antique pieces. The metals used are bronze or brass, with accents of silver plated accessories. The fabrics are lush, such as velvet, silk and taffeta. They often have solid, floral, striped, or plaid patterns on them. One of the staples is substantial curtains. The colour palette is varied, but mid -tones and rich colours are used often, and one or two colours are repeated to unify everything in the room.

A mix of different periods and styles in a traditional setting

The wood colours used are rich, such as mahogany, cherry, or dark walnut. The style usually features reproductions of furniture and accessories from the Queen Ann period (1 725-1750), Chippendale period (1750-1780), Federal period (1800-1820), Empire period (1810-1840), and even Chinoiserie (a Chinese style, popular for its accessories in the 17^th – 19^th century). The furniture is ornate and elegant with curvy lines. The layout of the furniture in the space is often influenced by classical style’s symmetry (as symmetry between furniture and accessories creates a sense of calm and order). There is a focal point in the room that can either be a fireplace, large piece of art, ornate mirror, etc. Large, plump sofas with lush cushions, candelabras, paintings, statues, china cabinets, commodes, and large carpets are the preferred furniture.  

Chinoiserie in my own home

Traditional style is very popular because one can make it formal or casual. It is one of the most adoptable styles of design and the most frequently seen and used. It is attractive, luxe, and elegant. 

Cheers! xoxo