Day 4- Style File

Lets face it--choosing the style of the room, whether we realize it or not, is the hardest part of the design process. We may all think we know what style we prefer, but how many of us find ourselves straying from the "original plan" while we're shopping.

If you get anything out of today's post, know that picking a style and sticking with it to the end will alleviate a lot of uncertainty, time, and frustration.

Style File

Traditional

I love how Rental Decorating Digest explains the traditional style as being, "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.

Transitional

As a blend of traditional and contemporary styles, transitional rooms feature an elegant, enduring design. This distinctive style radiates a comfortable yet classic feel that is growing in popularity. Color palettes are very subtle with an emphasis on ivory, taupe, beige, and tan. This simple color scheme is relaxing and uncomplicated. Wood tones from warm browns to chocolates are typically the only deep tones used. -lovetoknow.com

Contemporary

Rental Decorating Digest explains the often confused style of contemporary as being, "Characterized by clean lines and smooth surfaces without intricate details. But that doesn't mean your home will look stark, cold and sterile. Long gone are the days of boxy furniture and eccentric decorating. Today's updated contemporary look is a blend of comfortable, livable elements that create a sophisticated, fresh feel.

Eclectic

Kate McIntyre, an Interior Design journalist, explained eclectic design flawlessly by explaining that, "Good eclectic interior decorating makes you feel as though all of the pieces in the room were carefully collected over the years. Eclectic interior decorating incorporates pieces from different cultures, time periods, and design styles. The idea is for all of the very different elements to merge into a cohesive interior decorating scheme.