Defining styles
Casual: Usually seen as rustic, cottage, country or shabby chic.

Formal: Often seen in period homes, historic places or if you like antiques.

Contemporary: Generally clean lines, sculptural furnishings, artwork and use of bold colors. Can be seen as stark or cold, but admired for it’s urban, minimal look.

Traditional: Classic and comfortable combined. Less-restrictive than formal styles.

The way you furnish your home should be a representation of your style and functional needs, not based on what is fashionable at the moment. Research if you are unsure.

Furniture buying tips
Make sure you have enough space in the room for what you want to purchase.

Buy the best quality you can afford. You want your furniture to last, therefore, buying pieces that are well-built will make for a more enduring investment.

Try to imagine what the piece of furniture will look like in your home. It may look great in the showroom, but not compliment the style or layout of your home.

If you can not find the pieces you want, most furniture stores will special-order items if they understand your functional and stylistic needs.