Define and Emulate Traditional Home Décor Styles

What is Traditional Décor?

To understand what it is perhaps it’s best to first note what it is not. It is not garish, uneven, futuristic or loud. It also isn’t bare like a minimalist home can be or unfinished the way an industrial might be decorated.

It is instead typically classy, refined, elegant and warm with old European (and sometimes even Asian) influences. So how can one sincerely imitate sophisticated traditional décor? Let’s go through the finer points of this classy style choice and find out what you will need to get the look:

The Colours

To follow traditional décor colours remember to keep it soft, clean and warm. Try pastel, tan, beige taupe, soft white, floral or any other tender hue to incorporate into most parts of your home.

You can also fit in pretty patterns on wallpaper, drapes or rugs to infuse movement and energy; paisley, jacquard and plaid are essentials for traditional décor.

The Furniture

This is not the place for repurposed or reclaimed wood constructs – contrastingly, it is the sweet spot for perfectly finished wood pieces.
Try oak, teak and mahogany or other deep, dark wood materials for your cabinets, tables, consoles and cupboards. This keeps the theme dignified, solid, strong, and masculine.

Still, wood elements will need softening and genteel fabrics such as linen, cotton, silk and certain velvet varieties can do the trick.
For a classic traditional look however, work in (pricier) damask. Textured, patterned materials as such are rather ‘old-school’ and instantly add an air of refinement to upholstery.

Bonus Tip: Hardwood floors would be a good choice for traditional décor flooring as it emits complementary warm and cosy vibes.

The Lighting

Illumination choices for traditional décor is even, warm and gentle, where the ambience is meant to aid relaxation and total comfort.
In living and dining room areas, chandeliers can be quite a ‘traditional’ statement piece with more lighting to consist of various table lamps and bronze, crystal or other opulent wall sconces.

Think about lampshades colours and patterns as well; neutral hues or plain white muslin are essential options but even light patterns would work well.

The Accessories

Remember that there is almost always symmetrical balance with pieces in the home, be it furniture or fittings; and when you accessorise, the same concept applies. Traditional décor is not the channel for crazy, artsy pieces or imperfect crafts.

Instead, you can showcase pretty sets of decorative pieces, for instance a pair of antique candlestick holders and a collection of porcelain dolls or sculpted figurines. Single pieces such as gilded mirrors or vintage clocks would make the cut as well.

Note however that your choice of accessories should not stand out or appear incomplete as there must be a unifying theme for any accessory you ‘deliberately’ add.

Freshening Up Traditional Décor

Though a traditional theme can appear to be a stuffy, upper crust style choice – it’s actually a lovely décor concept to try out if you want to add more comfort in your home. Although it isn’t as freeing as eclectic or industrial décor, it certainly is a pretty sight.

You can update a traditional look by injecting a little more spunk and youth while still keeping with the concept.

Try moving away from the recommended colours but do stay close, for instance; instead of beige, light coffee might be a cooler option or if you are not a fan of basic florals, go with abstract flower designs instead. The trick is to infuse yourself into the style you love, whatever that may be.

If you are thinking of making more permanent changes to create a real traditional interior space, then it might be time to call in the design experts. We can help match you with the best designers and architects for your plans. Just drop us a line to request free quotes today!
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