By Mr. Hemant Agarwal, Founder of Silver Lake Premium Furniture
Types of furniture have always been a reflection of the culture and history of the people who crafted and used them. From the minimalist designs of Japan to the opulent, intricately carved furniture of China, each culture tells its own story through its interior design. Furniture is not just functional but a symbol of the artistry, beliefs, and lifestyle of different communities. This exploration of the varied types of furniture found across the world, from traditional to contemporary styles, offers a glimpse into the creative ingenuity that defines human living spaces.
The lifestyle of human species has evolved a lot in the last few centuries, from the clothes we wear to the food we eat, it’s all evolved a lot in past times. Diversity of human beliefs is immense, different cultures have different styles of living, their home design, whether they use concrete or wood or the type of furniture they prefer. Interior design of homes differs according to their culture, depending on the types of traditional craftsmanship they use, or the cultural practices of that particular place.
Types of furniture used vary in different cultures, like in Japanese culture, traditionally Tatami Mats and Futon were used. Tatami Mats were woven by straws and were made to be laid on floors, generally for floor seating and low tables. Futons are the mattress that can be folded and stored during day time. We can see that Japanese furniture are typically minimal, and are made solely for comfort. Shoji screens can also be an example of minimalistic furniture in Japanese culture, which are sliding paper doors to allow light to pass through.
Traditional Chinese furniture was often made of hardwoods, and had distinct curves, or intricate carvings to make them look more appealing. Ming chairs and Chinese cabinets are some of the examples, where Ming chairs are known for their elegance and simplicity and Chinese cabinets were lacquered with carvings and paintings. Opium beds and Kang tables were also some of the furniture often used in Chinese culture.
Traditionally, Charpai was one of the most basic pieces of furniture used in Indian culture. It’s a traditional woven bed, made from a wooden frame and jute strings. Jhoola is one of the things that can be found in the Indian courtyards or living rooms, it’s a hanging swing chair or bench. Indian furniture often had intricate carvings, designs, and paintings made, especially in royal homes.
African furniture was traditionally made on a hierarchy basis, stools and thrones, which symbolize power and prestige and wooden carved benches were used for the communal sittings. Stools were often carved from a single piece of wood and benches used to be adorned with tribal carvings. Rattan furniture were made from palm stems and were known for their durability and lightweight. In countries like Morocco, Leather Ottomans are used as seats or foot rests, and are made from goat or camel hide.
In the Middle eastern countries, Majlis seating and Mosaic tables are used traditionally. Majlis seating is a form of communal gathering where cushions are laid around the room in a circular manner and Mosaic tables are intricate with geometric designs usually found in countries like Morocco and Iran. Divans are long backless Sofas, covered with sheets and cushions.
Victorian furniture in Western Europe is often made of hardwood and rich padded textile covering it. Chesterfield Sofa is a two layered leather sofa, which came from England. Louis XIV furniture is again a luxurious and expensive piece often found in France.
American furniture design has changed a lot from native Americans to modern interior designs. Adirondack chairs and Shaker furniture are often seen in America. Adirondack chairs are outdoor chairs, which have wide armrests and can be used in rusty settings. Metal, glass and plywood were used in mid-century modern, which had clean, sleek lines.
As opposed to their northern companion the furniture style in Latin America has always been quite simple. Influenced by the Spanish craftsmanship, their furniture style has always been lightweight and eco-friendly. Hammocks, a traditional hanging bed or seat, are usually made of cotton or sisal fiber, they can be used both inside and outside hanging with the help of a tree. Equipal chairs are made from pigskin leather and woven wood are mostly found in countries like Mexico.
Every culture has their own style and design in their furniture, they all bring their unique flavor in the design and craftsmanship. It tells you the story of their culture and history of their people and traditions.
