Use lustrous materials like brass, cut crystal and marble. Dark woods with shiny, polished finishes, like cherry, walnut and mahogany, add to the formality. Tightly woven upholstery and shiny finish leathers complete this look. Use stone, aged metals, baskets and textured pottery for accessories. Casual furniture is usually made from lighter woods like oak, pine, ash and maple.
Leathers also have a matte finish.
The answer is more than just great furniture - it's the right colors, positioning of furnishings and great accessories. Here are some tips for making furniture part of a spectacular room. Shades you choose for private areas may differ from those for a home's more common areas. Warm colors are good choices for action rooms, such as family or dining rooms. Choose the focal point around which the furniture will revolve.