The term "parlor" was commonly used in the Victorian era to refer to a formal living room. This room was often reserved for special occasions and was typically the most luxurious and well-decorated room in the house. The parlor was a place to entertain guests and showcase one's wealth and social status. It was also a space for the family to gather and spend quality time together. Today, the term "parlor" may evoke a sense of old-fashioned charm and elegance, making it a popular choice for those looking to create a formal living room.Parlor
In the 18th and 19th centuries, a "salon" referred to a fashionable gathering of intellectuals, artists, and socialites. It was a place for lively discussions and cultural exchange. Over time, the term came to be associated with a formal living room, often decorated with ornate furnishings and artwork. A salon was seen as a symbol of sophistication and refinement, making it a desirable term for a formal living room today.Salon
The term "drawing room" originated in the 16th century, when it was used to describe a room where one could "withdraw" from the rest of the household. It was a private space for relaxation and entertainment, often reserved for the upper class. In the 19th century, the drawing room became synonymous with a formal living room, where guests would be received and entertained. Today, a drawing room continues to evoke a sense of exclusivity and elegance.Drawing Room
A "reception room" was a term commonly used in the early 20th century to describe a formal living room. It was a space for receiving guests and hosting formal events. The emphasis on the word "reception" suggests that this room was meant to impress and make a lasting impression on visitors. A reception room would often be lavishly decorated with fine furnishings and artwork, creating an atmosphere of grandeur and sophistication.Reception Room
The term "sitting room" has been used for centuries to describe a comfortable and cozy space for relaxation and socializing. In the past, it was often a small room used by the lady of the house for her daily activities. Over time, the term came to be used more broadly to refer to a room where people could sit and chat, away from the busyness of the rest of the house. Today, a sitting room can still be a formal space, but it is also a place for relaxation and casual gatherings.Sitting Room
The term "front room" is somewhat self-explanatory – it refers to a room at the front of the house. In the past, this was often the most formal and well-decorated room in the house, used for receiving guests and hosting special occasions. The front room was a space for showing off one's wealth and social status, and it was often kept separate from the more casual and functional rooms in the house. Today, the front room may still be a formal space, but it can also be a multipurpose room for everyday use.Front Room
The addition of the word "formal" to the term "parlor" emphasizes the grandeur and elegance of this room. A formal parlor was a space reserved for special occasions and was often the most luxurious room in the house. It was a place for entertaining guests and showcasing one's wealth and social status. A formal parlor would be lavishly decorated with fine furnishings and artwork, making it a true showpiece of the home.Formal Parlor
The term "salon" is elevated to a whole new level with the addition of the word "grand." A grand salon was a spacious and opulent room, often found in large mansions and estates. It was a place for hosting extravagant parties and events, and it was a symbol of wealth and luxury. A grand salon would typically be decorated with the finest furnishings, artwork, and decor, making it a truly impressive and grand space.Grand Salon
The term "receiving room" is similar to a reception room, but it places more emphasis on the act of receiving guests. In the past, a receiving room would have been used to welcome and entertain visitors, often with formal tea or coffee. It was a space for making a good impression and showing hospitality. Today, a receiving room can still be a formal space, but it can also serve as a welcoming and inviting room for everyday use.Receiving Room
The term "sitting room" is given a formal twist with the addition of the word "formal." A formal sitting room is a space that is meant to be elegant and sophisticated, reserved for special occasions and formal gatherings. It would typically be decorated with luxurious furnishings and decor, creating a refined and polished atmosphere. A formal sitting room may also be used as a quiet and intimate space for conversation and relaxation.Formal Sitting Room