At Around the Block, Toronto's destination for furniture consignment, we specialise in modern, contemporary, transitional, and traditional furniture. This month we are exploring furniture styles to understand better what defines each type and help you decide what works for you and your home.
Our second blog discusses traditional furniture design, its characteristics, influences, and popular styles that define traditional furniture.
What is Traditional Furniture?
A traditional style adds timeless elegance and classic design to any home. Heavily influenced by 18th and 19th centuries stylings, traditional furniture is known for ornate details, rich materials, and a sense of history and heritage.
One of the key elements of this classic furniture is the use of rich materials, such as mahogany, cherry, and oak. These woods are known for their durability and beauty and are often used to construct traditional furniture. In addition to wood, it also often features other materials such as marble, brass, and leather.
Another defining characteristic of traditional furniture is ornate details and embellishments. These may include intricate carvings, scrolled legs, and inlaid patterns. These details often highlight the furniture maker's craftsmanship and skill and add elegance and luxury to the piece.
Popular Traditional Furniture Styles
Chippendale
One of the most famous types of traditional furniture is the Chippendale style, which was popularized in the 18th century. Chippendale furniture uses cabriole legs, which are curved legs resembling an animal's paw. It is also known for its use of intricate carvings, such as rosettes and bellflowers.
Hepplewhite
Another popular traditional style is the Hepplewhite, which was popular in the late 18th century. This style is known for its delicate lines and elegant curves. Hepplewhite furniture is also known for its use of inlaid patterns, such as geometric shapes and marquetry.
Victorian
The Victorian style became popular in the 19th century. This style is famous for its rich colours and ornate details, such as intricate carvings, scrolled legs, and inlaid patterns. Victorian furniture is also known for materials such as marble, brass, and leather.
Queen Ann
The traditional furniture style also includes Queen Anne, which was popular in the early 18th century. This style is characterized by its use of cabriole legs and delicate lines. Queen Anne furniture is also known for its use of inlaid patterns, such as geometric shapes and marquetry.
Sheraton
The Sheraton style was popularized in the late 18th century. Delicate lines and elegant curves define this style. Sheraton furniture is also known for its use of inlaid patterns, such as geometric shapes and marquetry.
Louis XIV
Louis XIV furniture, also known as the Baroque style in traditional furniture, was popular in France during the reign of King Louis XIV (1643-1715). It is characterized by ornate and elaborate designs, with heavy use of gilding, sculptural elements, and rich fabrics. The furniture frequently had curved lines and asymmetrical shapes. The pieces were typically made of expensive materials such as ebony and exotic woods with intricate inlays and carvings.
Louis XV
Louis XV furniture, also known as the Rococo style in traditional furniture, was popular in France during the reign of King Louis XV (1715-1774). It was a more delicate and ornate version of the Baroque style, characterized by asymmetrical designs, curved lines, and an emphasis on pastel colours and floral motifs. Furniture pieces were often intricately carved and gilded and made of expensive materials such as satinwood and Bois de Rose.
Louis XVI
Louis XVI furniture, also known as the Neoclassical style, was popular in France during the reign of King Louis XVI (1774-1792). It was a departure from the ornate styles of the previous reigns and was characterized by simplicity, symmetry, and a return to classical forms. Furniture pieces were often made of mahogany and other types of wood and were decorated with classical motifs such as urns, wreaths, and swags
What to Look for in Traditional Furniture?
One of the most important things to consider when buying traditional furniture is the quality of the craftsmanship. Traditional furniture is often hand-crafted, and it is essential to look for pieces made with care and attention to detail. Additionally, it's also necessary to consider the materials used in the construction of the work. Traditional furniture is often made from high-quality materials such as mahogany, cherry, and oak and should be solid and sturdy.
Another thing to consider when buying traditional furniture is the style of the piece. It's essential to choose a piece that will complement the existing decor in your home, and that will fit in with your personal style. You can also mix different types of traditional furniture to create a unique and exciting look in your home.
Around the Block - Your Home for Furniture on Consignment
If you want to add a touch of elegance and luxury to your home, a traditional furniture style might be right for you. Inspired by the whims and influences of the 18th and 19th centuries, traditional furniture design still influences home furniture designs today. At Around the Block furniture consignment in Toronto, we offer all sorts of traditional, transitional, and contemporary furniture styles. Browse furniture online at our website or stop by our store to see our current inventory.
