When selecting your furniture, it is good to have a style in mind. There are many differing styles such as traditional, contemporary, country (sometimes called cottage), or modern. Within each style there are countless variations but some more popular styles can be discussed here.

• Traditional
  Within this category the more popular styles are Queen Anne and Chippendale. Traditional furniture is usually cherry or mahogany, although there are pieces made from other dark woods. You will also see a wonderful variation of designs, carvings, and veneers.

• Modern
  Smooth and rounded surfaces typify contemporary or modern furniture styles. Metallic and leather looks are popular.

• Country
  A country design is a rural look, stressing comfort and simplicity. Pine and oak are the more popular woods involved, with wicker and iron components optionally added.

• Transitional
  The definition of Transitional is best stated as an understated  contemporary style.

You can mix and match some styles, such as transitional and country, or transitional and modern, but experts usually advise you to pick one design theme and stick to it. You should then select accessories such as lamps, artwork, hangings, and rugs to match the theme and the base color design.