Modern Traditional Interior Design
Traditionally inspired design is a timeless style that’s more about comfort than fancy. Traditional design is rooted in 18th and 19th-century Europe, but can incorporate influences from around the world.
This design style has several characteristics that make it appealing to a variety of people. These include symmetry, warm tones and colors, and detail but without being overly fancy.[1]
Color
Color can play an important role in achieving the modern traditional look. Neutral and muted tones such as beige, gray, and white are commonly used as the base color palette, while pops of colorful accent pieces, furniture, or artwork can be added to the design for an eye-catching look.
The key to a successful modern traditional design is blending an intentional blend of modern and traditional patterns, finishes, accessories, lighting, and artwork that create depth and interest while also adding a sense of warmth and comfort to the space. This can be achieved through layered textures, patterns, and materials, natural materials, and inclusion of vintage-inspired accessories.
Earthy, organic colors like greens and browns work well in modern traditional interior design. These tones are incredibly versatile and are perfect for spaces with a more traditional feel, but they can still be mixed and matched with modern elements to create a cohesive look.
Purple is another color that can work well in modern traditional interior design. It is often seen as a symbol of royalty and wealth, but designers are bringing this timeless color into fresh, contemporary aesthetics for an exciting look.
For bedrooms, consider pairing a dark wood headboard with light, soft bedding to add warmth to the room without being overwhelming. You can add a few pops of bright color to the bedroom with throw pillows or a bedspread that includes a bold pattern or texture.[2]
The bathroom can be a luxurious sanctuary in a modern traditional home, so you’ll want to create an inviting space that feels comfortable yet sophisticated. A light, neutral tile with matching wall paint is a great way to get started. You can also consider using a floral wallpaper in the bathroom to add some interest without overwhelming the space.
Texture
Adding texture to modern traditional interior design is a simple yet powerful way to add depth and dimension to any space. This can be accomplished through a variety of sources from soft fabrics and textiles with movement to harder materials like stone, wood, and metal.
Using rough, course textures can add weight and pull focus to a space while smooth textures make rooms feel cooler and reflect more light. Texture is important in a wide range of styles and is especially effective when used to accent monochromatic design themes.
One of the most popular ways to add texture in modern traditional interior design is through furniture. This includes pieces like sofas, chairs, and ottomans.
When paired with a few statement pieces, these pieces can make the room look cohesive and unified. For example, a reclaimed wood dining table matched with curved chairs is an ideal choice for this look.
In addition, incorporating rugs and wall coverings crafted from natural materials can also lend a sense of warmth and comfort to the design. Geometric prints, animal hides, and rugs woven from jute, sisal, or seagrass are all beautiful options for adding new traditional style to your home.[3]
A modern traditional design scheme can be achieved through a careful mix of modern and traditional patterns, finishes, accessories, lighting, and artwork. A combination of neutral and muted tones with pops of color can create a cozy, comfortable, and inviting space that will last a lifetime.
While color and lighting are two essential elements of design, they’re nothing without texture. The right texture can add warmth, depth, and character to a space in a way that colour and lighting can’t.
Pattern
The use of pattern in modern traditional interior design can help bring a feeling of comfort and coziness to a space. It can also introduce a pop of color and tie the whole look together.
This style is rooted in 18th and 19th-century European design and features antiques, classic art, symmetry, and timeless elements that are sure to evoke a sense of familiarity. It’s a go-to route for those seeking to create a classic and comfortable home that reflects their personal preferences, family history, and interests.
A key feature of traditional interiors is symmetry, which can be achieved through the use of furniture and decorative items that are arranged in pairs or along a central axis. This can include things like symmetrical sconces on either side of a fireplace or two armchairs facing each other in the living room.
Another characteristic of a traditional space is the prevalence of natural materials. This includes wood, which is a popular material for the construction of furniture and other decorative elements. It can be finished in light or dark tones and come in a variety of finishes.
If you’re considering using a lot of wood in your interiors, it’s important to consider using neutral colors. This will help soften the look of the natural materials and make them seem less heavy and outdated.[4]
Another way to incorporate pattern into a traditional design is through the use of mixed patterned fabrics. These can include damask and paisley designs, which can add depth and a touch of elegance to the look of your space. You can also try adding accent pillows and blankets with these patterns. This will add a splash of color and texture to the entire look without overdoing it!
Focal Points
Focal points are a fundamental design element in most interior spaces. They give your eyes somewhere to focus while making the room feel more cohesive and unified. In addition, they can improve the overall aesthetic of a space and create a welcoming atmosphere for relaxation.
Focal points can come naturally in a space or be created with art and furniture. For example, a large architectural photograph of a classic building can complement the colors in a room or help make a traditional style feel fresh.
Another way to add a focal point is with bold wallpaper. In this living room spotted on the Swedish site Alvhem Makleri, a dramatic peonies wallpaper topped off with a large round mirror creates a dramatic focal point in a cookie cutter apartment.
Other focal points include windows and outdoor views. These areas tend to draw attention regardless of what else is in the room.
In this living room by Sheer and Company, a high-end interior design firm based in Austin, Texas, the window is the primary anchor of the room. A stylish gallery wall over the sofa and a corner shelving unit also add visual interest.
To create a modern traditional design, “formulate your color palette and feature wallpaper with an interesting bold pattern or texture,” suggests Henle. She advises pairing neutral base furnishings with contrasting colors and textures that “make your space stand out from the rest.”
A potted tree at a corner of the room will also work well as a focal point in a minimalist design. A coffee table set and floor-to-ceiling drapes will accessorize a large window best, but mismatched chairs can also catch attention.
Timeless Elements
Modern traditional interior design is a versatile style that uses modern elements throughout with a twist of tradition. It is a classic, yet inviting approach to creating a warm and welcoming space that exudes your individuality and suits your lifestyle.
The best way to ensure a timeless interior is to choose high-quality furniture and decor items. These pieces will last for years and look stylish even after multiple uses. In addition, choose a neutral color scheme to keep your room looking elegant and sophisticated.[5]
Another timeless design element is symmetry. This is a design principle that humans are wired to appreciate, and it helps create balance when arranging your furnishings and colors.
For example, you may want to place two couches on either side of a living room wall or flank a single couch with two end tables. This will help you achieve the symmetrical aesthetic without using a lot of materials or clutter.
A timeless design can be achieved by using natural materials, such as wood, stone, and linen, to create a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere. Adding a few accent pieces and artwork crafted from these materials will also contribute to the overall timeless feel of your space.
Finally, mix your timeless design with contemporary elements to add a pop of color and depth to the space. This can be done by mixing your favorite colors with neutrals, or by using contemporary artwork to give a present-day feel.
Ultimately, the key to adapting your timeless design to modern trends is to carefully select modern elements that blend with traditional elements while remaining true to your style. This is done by choosing modern furniture and accessories that can be used in a timeless design, and by selecting finishes and materials that are both fashionable and durable.
Modern Traditional Interior Design
While traditional interior design can look dated at times, it’s also a great choice for those who want their homes to feel timeless. The key to mastering this style is to keep it a consistent, cohesive aesthetic throughout your space.[6]
Traditional styles are known for their use of decorative woodwork and ornate details. These elements add a touch of elegance and refinement to any room.
Simplistic Furniture
This style of design has its flaws but in the right context, it can be a beautiful thing. Whether you’re looking to make your bedroom a tranquil space, or you want to transform your family room into an enviable entertaining area, the key is to create a design that feels balanced and cohesive. Having said that, the right furniture and accessories can go a long way in creating your ideal home.
The best part is that you don’t have to break the bank to achieve this look and feel. For example, a recent client of Decorilla’s opted for a simple yet effective redesign that didn’t require costly demolition or refinishing. The result was a sleek and stylish living room that’s sure to impress even the most discerning of tastemakers.
The best way to achieve this look is to partner with an experienced interior designer who can guide you through the process and deliver a stunning, bespoke space that’s as unique as you are. To find out how to get started, book a free design consultation with our team of experts today![7]
Subway Tiles
The subway tile is a classic design element that has long been a fixture in traditional and modern interiors. Its versatility means that it’s a great way to incorporate a timeless style into your space without having to break the bank.
Originally used in subway stations to brighten up dark, dank spaces, the ceramic 3″x 6″ tile quickly became a staple for bathrooms and kitchens as it was stain-resistant, easy to clean, and hygienic. Today, subway tiles come in a variety of colors and materials, such as glass or stone, making them a versatile choice for any space.
Subway tile comes in a wide range of layout patterns, from herringbone and basket weave to brick bond. The layout is simple to install and will bring a timeless touch to any space.
While the herringbone pattern is one of the most popular, it can also be used in other ways to add visual interest. Laying the tiles in a diagonal direction, rather than straight across, can create a more dramatic effect.
Another option is to use the tiles in a horizontal stack layout, which can help elongate a smaller bathroom. This design idea works well when paired with a light colored tile like Mallorca White.
Choosing the right grout is also an important part of the overall design, as it can change the look and feel of your tile. A darker color of grout may add more depth to the tile and make it stand out against the other colors in your room, while a lighter color might be best for a less dramatic effect.
A simple way to add dimension to a backsplash or other small area is to use a tile with a beveled edge. This will make the tiles appear larger and give your space a more custom look.
The beveled edges of a tile can also add a sense of depth to your kitchen or bathroom. They can also be applied to a shower wall for a unique look that will catch your eye when you walk through the door.[8]
Antique or Vintage Pieces
Whether you’re a history buff or just love the way antique pieces can make a room feel, antique and vintage furniture are great options for modern traditional interior design. These pieces often feature intricate carvings, moldings, and embellishments that are reminiscent of the past. They also tend to have a muted color palette that’s more reserved than bright colors used in many other styles of interior design.
Adding antique or vintage furniture to your modern traditional interior design can be a great way to add depth and character to a space without making it look too heavy and dark. However, it’s important to keep in mind that too much of a good thing can make your space look chaotic and cluttered.
To avoid this, it’s best to mix and match vintage items with modern ones to create a cohesive look. This can include using a vintage table in a contemporary bedroom or pairing a vintage mirror with a modern sofa.
Another great way to incorporate antique or vintage pieces into your modern traditional interior design is to use them as accessories instead of as furniture. For example, you can hang a large family portrait or piece of art from the ceiling as a focal point in your room. Or, you can display a small piece of art within a decorative frame on a shelf or table.[9]
You can find these types of antique or vintage pieces at many different places, including flea markets and thrift stores. You can also check out peer-to-peer marketplaces like Craigslist and eBay to find the perfect pieces for your home.
One of the best things about incorporating antique or vintage pieces into your modern traditional interior is that you can add personal touches to the design. For example, you could use a vintage side table in your living room that matches your grandfather’s desk chair. You can also use an antique rug in your dining room to create a more classic, timeless look.
Another way to make your antique or vintage pieces stand out is by using them in a light, bright space. For example, a vintage dining set can work well in a sunny sunroom, where the richness of the wood and carved detail will complement the brighter colors of the room.
Patterned Fabrics
Whether you’re designing a modern traditional interior or a transitional space, patterned fabrics are an excellent way to add visual interest. They can also help introduce an accent color or tie in your overall design palette.
In modern traditional interiors, patterned fabrics are often used to create a warm and welcoming space. You can incorporate them in the form of a large area rug, art or accent pillows to make your rooms feel cozy and inviting.
Patterns in a traditional interior can range from simple, neutral stripes to lavish florals. They can also be mixed with solids, tapestries and other motifs for a more interesting design.[10]
When choosing a patterned fabric for your modern traditional space, it’s important to choose one that fits with the aesthetic of the room and complements other elements. For example, a bold damask fabric is great for an elegant tone-on-tone design. It can be used on a sofa or chairs, or it can be paired with other more tone-on-tone patterns for a curated look.
Another common patterned fabric in this type of style is the ogee pattern. This fabric is most commonly seen in Middle Eastern decor, but it can be found in a variety of colors and fabric options to fit any room’s theme and color scheme.
The most important thing to remember when selecting a patterned fabric for a traditional space is that it needs to have a symmetrical shape. For instance, two armchairs on either side of a fireplace, or a pair of upholstered chairs lining the same wall are all examples of symmetry in a traditional space.
A symmetrical design can create a more peaceful and calming atmosphere in any space. It’s especially useful for larger spaces because it can make the room feel more expansive and open.[11]
If you’re unsure of what kind of patterned fabric to use for your modern traditional space, it’s a good idea to start small. This can be as easy as adding a few patterned throw pillows to your living room. Once you’ve added your first few pieces, you can continue to experiment with different pattern styles. [12]
