Architectural Elements

• Old World rooms rely on architectural elements to lend authenticity. If the room does not have existing architectural elements, they can be added. Exposed wooden beams on the ceiling lend a rustic quality, while arched doorways and windows balance it with elegance. Large concrete fireplaces are often found in Old World rooms. And floors of tumbled marble or rough slate have an Old World look.
  
  

Colors

• Colors in Old World rooms should have a muted, weathered look, as if they have faded with time. Walls often have a faux-plaster treatment in shades of terra cotta, cream or ochre. Faded-lookiing shades of burgundy, navy blue, gold and forest green are often chosen for upholstery. Dark woods, mixed with pieces that have been aged with paint and sanding, complete the look.
  
  

Fabrics

• Old World fabrics have a rich, textural quality. A mix of large-scale brocade and damask, stripes and small prints often appear on upholstered pieces. Tapestry, silk and velvet are frequently used on furnishings or draperies. Distressed leather lends age. Aubusson rugs, which have a naturally weathered look, supply softness underfoot. Pillows with tassels, fringe and beads dress up the seating pieces.
  
  

Rustic Finishes

• No Old World room is complete without a touch of wrought iron, either in a fireplace screen, fireplace tools, a chandelier, sconces or wall decor. Accessories such as candlesticks and tea sets should have a distressed bronze, gold or silver finish. And some genuine antique artifacts should be woven into the mix along with artificially-aged ones.
  
  

Aged Look

• Above all, Old World rooms should look comfortable, aged and lived in, as if items have been collected and added over a lifetime. Items should not have a matching look, but a complementary look. Oil paintings in gilded frames, large heavy mirrors, and large-scale furniture pieces, such as bookcases and armoires, are other important parts of Old World rooms. The mix should be eclectic, but never minimalist or stark.