Difference Between Traditional and Contemporary Furniture
Traditional and contemporary furniture varies because of the designers. Traditional designers are looking into the past when they create their designs. Contemporary designers have a foot in the future with theirs. Whichever style you choose, be assured that both are functional and will make your home graceful and elegant.
The History of Traditional Furniture
Early American, Colonial and Federal are some of the American styles of traditional furniture. When traditional furniture was first made, it was functional and made of heavy wood with carvings on the legs and edges of tables. They were usually large and ornate. Traditional furniture was meant to last and was very serviceable.
The History of Contemporary Furniture
Modern furniture became popular in the 20th century. It is lauded to be the most diverse furniture of the three centuries. It had many different types, elegant lines and could be made in glass, steel, wood or plastics. No other century has had such a variety as contemporary furniture. It has simple clean lines as well and evolved from the shaker period.
Traditional Types
The early American, Colonial and Federal types are the most common in American traditional. These were borrowed from English, Spanish and French furniture of earlier times. Thomas Chippendale influenced many of the Colonial designs of the time and today.
Contemporary Types
While there are a few contemporary types of furniture the most notable is Bauhaus. It is known for its clean lines and was responsible for the Barcelona chair.
Preferences
The choice you make is entirely up to you. If you like dark woods with decorative carvings then traditional furniture is for you. However, if you prefer sleek, clean lines then you will be better off with a contemporary design.