Ever walked into a furniture store and felt overwhelmed by the sheer variety of styles? You’re not alone! From “Mid-Century Modern” to “French Provincial,” the world of furniture design is full of unique terms and characteristics.

At Sterling Furniture, we believe that understanding furniture styles empowers you to make informed choices for your home. That’s why we’ve created this handy glossary to demystify some common furniture terms.

Let’s get started!

Traditional Styles:

• Queen Anne: Known for its graceful curves, cabriole legs (curved with a knee-like bend), and intricate details like shell motifs and claw feet.
• Chippendale: Elegant and refined, featuring ball-and-claw feet, mahogany wood, and often intricate carvings.
• Hepplewhite: Characterized by straight, slender legs, shield-shaped chair backs, and delicate inlays.
• Sheraton: Similar to Hepplewhite, but with a focus on geometric shapes, contrasting veneers, and sometimes brass accents.
• Victorian: Ornate and elaborate, often featuring dark wood, tufted upholstery, and decorative elements like fringe and tassels.

Modern Styles:

• Art Deco: Bold and glamorous, with geometric shapes, luxurious materials like velvet and chrome, and a streamlined aesthetic.
• Mid-Century Modern: Clean lines, organic shapes, and a focus on functionality. Think tapered legs, simple silhouettes, and natural materials like wood and leather.
• Scandinavian: Minimalist and functional, with light wood, clean lines, and an emphasis on natural light and comfort.
• Industrial: Raw and edgy, featuring exposed metal, distressed wood, and a utilitarian aesthetic.

Other Styles:

• French Provincial: Rustic yet elegant, with curved lines, cabriole legs, and often painted finishes.
• Mission: Simple and sturdy, with straight lines, exposed joinery, and a focus on craftsmanship.
• Shaker: Similar to Mission, but even more minimalist, with an emphasis on functionality and unadorned surfaces.
• Coastal: Light and airy, with natural materials like wicker and rattan, nautical motifs, and a relaxed vibe.
• Farmhouse: Cozy and inviting, with rustic wood, comfortable upholstery, and a focus on practicality.

Common Furniture Terms:

• Cabriole Leg: A curved furniture leg with a knee-like bend.
• Claw Foot: A furniture foot shaped like an animal’s claw.
• Finial: A decorative ornament at the top of a piece of furniture.
• Inlay: A decorative technique where different materials are inserted into the surface of wood.
• Marquetry: Similar to inlay, but using thin pieces of wood to create intricate patterns.
• Veneer: A thin layer of wood applied to a less expensive wood core.
• Tufted Upholstery: Fabric that is gathered and stitched to create a pattern of depressions or buttons.

Still have questions?

We hope this glossary has been helpful! If you’re still feeling lost in the world of furniture styles, don’t worry. Our experienced team at Sterling Furniture is always here to answer your questions and guide you through our collection.

Visit our Sugar House showroom today and let us help you find the perfect pieces to express your unique style and create a home you love.