Mixing Formal with Unfinished

Unfinished wood is getting very popular, and I'm a big fan.  I love the texture that unfinished wood adds to a space.  You can also use a clear stain to bring finish the wood, but keep the unfinished feel.  I love how it is juxtaposed in the picture above with Chippendale chairs, a formal gold mirror and chandelier, and a bright buffet.  There are several different styles combined in this room, but it works.  It works because the color hues are all the same and the textures are minimal.  When you are decorating with a monochromatic color scheme, or all the same style of furniture, you need lots of texture to add interest.  But when you are decorating with lots of different styles, it's best to let texturing become an accent.