Without a doubt, traditional style remains at the top of the popularity charts in America's home decorating. Gracious and inviting, traditional design evokes images of understated elegance and the grand style of the 18th and 19th century -- and the warmth and classical comfort many of us remember from our childhood homes.

But if you equate "traditional and grand" with "old and stodgy," it's time to take another look. While elegance and history still personify this style, a definite and growing movement to bring traditional design into a fresher, more relaxed realm is well underway. A perfect example is the new approach being taken to one of the most enduring styles in American décor -- Queen Anne furniture.

Queen Anne furniture, named for the English monarch of the early 1700s, was the dominant décor during America's Colonial period and has become the most reproduced furniture style ever since. Its hallmarks are darker woods like walnut and mahogany finished to a high gloss; artful, shell-carved designs on table and chair legs; tall, broken pediment arches topping cabinets, and eye-pleasing, serpentine curves and cabriole legs that were at the time a revolutionary departure from the square furniture legs of earlier furniture styles.

In this new, more relaxed mode of traditional decorating, fabric color and texture may seem less formal, albeit no less elegant. At the same time, wood furniture and finishes are being mixed and matched less strictly. Old and new are paired side-by-side without apology.

Some tips on energizing this venerable decorating style include:

Choose Colors Wisely: Softer colors impart a more contemporary, relaxed approach to original traditional style. If you prefer a more formal traditional palette, select jewel tone colors with gold and silver accents.
Pair Old With New: Antiques and antique reproductions can be used together successfully and are key to achieving the best possible traditional look.
Mix And Match Fabrics And Textures: When selecting upholstery, accent and drapery fabrics, choose those that work well together, but do not necessarily match. Keep in mind that upholstery fabrics should be able to withstand years of wear.
Accessorize, But Avoid Clutter: Today's most successful and elegant traditional interiors, keep accessories to a minimum.
Try An Eclectic Take On Traditional: Every piece of furniture in a room does not have to suit a classic traditional vein. It is common today to find a fantastic traditional interior where something from a different genre -- even contemporary art -- is successfully utilized.

Courtesy of ARA Content