Exploring Different Furniture Styles
Matt MorganShare
When it comes to designing a custom piece of furniture, one of the most common questions we hear is: “What style should I choose?”
There are countless design categories out there — from timeless classics to modern trends — and it can feel overwhelming. The good news is, you don’t have to know every style by name. Even just pointing to an example of something you like gives us direction for your project.
Here are some of the most common furniture styles we encounter:
Traditional
Classic, timeless, and often more formal. Traditional furniture features rich wood tones, curved details, and craftsmanship that never goes out of style. Perfect for dining tables or mantles that make a statement.
Modern
Defined by clean lines, minimalism, and function. Modern pieces often use sleek designs, simple bases, and let the wood grain itself be the star.
Rustic / Farmhouse
Warm, inviting, and full of character. Rustic and farmhouse styles use natural textures, distressed finishes, and sturdy designs that feel lived-in and comfortable. Benches, trestle tables, and live edge slabs often fall into this category.
Industrial
A blend of wood and metal. Industrial style mixes raw materials like steel bases with solid hardwood tops for a strong, urban-inspired look. Great for lofts, offices, and bold statement furniture.
Mid-Century Modern
A retro style that’s made a huge comeback. Think tapered legs, simple shapes, and lighter wood tones. Mid-century designs work well in both small spaces and modern homes.
Contemporary
Always evolving, contemporary furniture takes inspiration from current design trends. It often borrows elements from other styles but updates them with modern proportions, finishes, or combinations.
Transitional
A hybrid between traditional and modern. Transitional pieces keep some of the warmth and detail of traditional furniture but simplify the lines for a more updated, versatile look.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, furniture style comes down to your personality and your space. Don’t worry if you don’t know the “right term” for your style — pictures, mood boards, or even pointing out elements you like can be enough for us to create a design direction.
Remember: your custom piece doesn’t have to fit neatly into a single category. Sometimes the best designs are a mix of styles that reflect you.