While many people are familiar with the classic American Shaker and Mission-style furniture design that has recovered its popularity in the late 20th Century, the country also has a rich history of more ornate furniture design.

The earliest classic period was the Jacobean and The Jacobean period from approximately 1700 and is characterised by styles described as William and Mary, Queen Anne or Georgian and Chippendale, all of which are derived from the settlers' European home countries.

Following American independence the Federal period which can be divided into three broad periods, the early Federal period, when the designs of Hepplewhite, Shearer, and Sheraton predominate, and the American Empire time when French inspired furniture took over.

Then came the American Victorian furniture period.

This was the furniture of the drawing room and American high society, featuring elegant pieces in dark wood, most often cherry and walnut and stained a deep red. Federal era furniture often featured intricate workmanship and inlays of different types of wood, or wood scorched to give areas of light and dark contrasts. Painted or string inlays were also used for decoration, using the symbols of stars and eagles.

One of the most famous designers of Federal era furniture was Duncan Phyfe, who worked mainly in mahogany and was best known for chairs with concave backs and legs. Charles Honore Lannuier, another popular designer made much use of brass and gilded ornamentation. Other designers of the American federal period were Michael Allison, John Shaw, John Dolan, Samuel McIntire, and George Woodruff.

Pieces from this period are among the most elegant of American furniture design and remain sought after both as antiques but also form the inspiration for much modern reproduction furniture.

Visit a large wholesale furniture showroom to see examples of these styles along with the modern designer furniture from such names as Ashley furniture, Wynwood, Stein World and Steve Silver and it is sure to provide inspiration when fitting out a new home to the home-maker's own personal taste.

While the purists might disapprove there is nothing wrong with a pick and mix approach of choosing one or two stylish and ornate pieces, such as an occasional table, armoire or desk and to display alongside the more modern and simple sofa or dining table.

A visit to the furniture store that also stocks soft furnishings, fabrics, drapes, ornaments, rugs and other items is a good way to play with ideas before settling on the style of room.

This way it is possible to come up with a unique mix that reflects the individual's personality.