Elements of formal design include color, window accents

Published 5:31 pm Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Do you prefer the traditional look when it comes interior design? Is formal decor appealing? Then let’s see what it takes to achieve that look.

Color is important, as it can make or break the look of a room. Blues, greens and golds are traditional colors, so for that formal look, make sure your walls feature those tones.

If you’re not a fan of any of those hues, paint the walls a neutral color, but play up the accessories with those more traditional blues, golds and greens.

The right wallpaper can make the room appear more formal. If an entire room of wallpaper isn’t what you like or what you can afford, consider putting in a chair rail, then papering just the upper portion or just the lower portion of the wall.

The chair rail is a great addition regardless of your wallpaper decision, as the wood gives the room a classic touch.

Speaking of wood, crown molding enhances any room, particularly if you are going for a formal look. Also, wood flooring creates a very rich look, and adding dark-hued area rugs will enhance the look even more.

If replacing the current floor covering isn’t in the budget, try placing traditional-looking area rugs over the current covering.

Let’s talk about the windows. How you dress them will have an effect on the look of the decor. Matching fabric on the windows to fabric in the upholstery will go a long way in making the room feel formal.

Don’t forget to include a valance; this can be of the same fabric as the outer drape, or it can be a coordinating solid-hued fabric. If you’re good at matching patterns, a different pattern on the valance can look very good, particularly if that different pattern is repeated somewhere else in the room, even if it is simply on the throw-pillow upholstery.

Lighting is always important in any room decor. For the formal look, consider table lamps of brass and chandeliers of crystal. Always be sure there is additional overhead lighting to illuminate the room as needed.

Antiques exude formality, so, if you can afford it, place one or two antiques in a room. Antique-style oil paintings or watercolors with vintage frames are especially classy.

When selecting knickknacks, think figurines, clocks or perhaps even a formal tea set. Bronze or alabaster statues also add to the look.

If formal, traditional decor is what you like, a little quiet creativity goes a long way.

Rosemary Sadez Friedmann, an interior designer in Naples, Fla., is author of “Mystery of Color.”