Urban areas lean toward contemporary furnishings, while suburban areas are more likely to favor traditional tastes. Once an area latches onto a style, he says, it tends to become representative of that region. While personal taste dictates colors and finishes, they also are affected by geography, Ellis says. The Northeast gravitates to a very traditional look, dark wood such as cherry or mahogany. Florida and California largely select light finishes.
Medium tones are very popular in the Midwest.
A primary advantage of traditional furniture is its adaptability. From fabrics to pillows to lamps to smaller accessory pieces like a night table, anyone can incorporate different styles and influences to create a blended look. It will immediately add an element of your personality and some design flair to the environment you are creating. Interior designer Amy Bernard agrees but tells clients it s in their best interest to select neutral colors for larger furnishings such as sofas. You don t want to follow color trends.