Traditional interior design

In interior design, ‘traditional’ is a specific term that though often used to describe a variety of styles that do not obey a particular trend or era, it actually refers to the particular classic décor style of the 18-th and 19-th century European homes. It is practically a timeless interior style that combines elegance and comfort, and is suitable for anyone who appreciates antiques, curved lines, classical art and especially design, rich in history.

Traditional interior design style - typical example

Space. Traditional interiors are all about order, coherence and harmony, aimed at creating a peaceful and properly arranged space where every element stands along the others in an orderly, even somewhat predictable fashion. Some may argue that the traditional interior design is “boring”, but as long as one finds comfort in order, there’s nothing “boring” about it at all!

Symmetry and consistency are the key features of the traditionally styled interiors. Furniture and accessories are of matching designs and in carefully premeditated quantities, and are symmetrically positioned around a focal point in the room, which makes the space look coherent, airy and tidy.

Influenced by the splendor of the majestic Baroque and the 18-th c. Europe’s Rococo grace and intimate-coquettish character, architects create traditional spaces featuring high ceilings and sash windows, Roman columns and spacious alcoves, walls wainscoting, intricate plaster moldings, and carvings in wood and stone.

Marble, wood and stone dominate traditional interiors, alongside various elements of wrought iron, natural fibers and leather.

Color. Traditional style colors are usually in neutral, pastel tones of muted vibrance that add character to the cozy feel and elegant, often luxurious ambiance of the traditionally styled interiors.

Cream, café au lait, and soft gray on walls and textile complement and emphasize the elaborate furniture items of beautiful, generally glossy dark wood finish, the dramatic colors of the flooring of natural materials, as well as the spectacular murals, fine-art works and antiques.

Primary colors such as red, blue and green come in softer hues, such as ruby, powder green and sapphire, to add fresh pops of color, while yellow shines on the statement golden frames of pictures and tapestries.

Another popular color palette for traditional interiors décor features organic tones introduced from the beautiful gardens around the aristocratic homes of old. Upholstery, curtains and decoration textile pleases the eye with designs and patterns in warm, inviting, and simple, yet elegant and exquisite tones, from verdant-green, sky-blue and sunny yellow, to all the shades of the English rose, such as peach, pink and crimson.

Furniture. Traditional interiors are furnished with historically valuable and luxurious items designed and fashioned after the grandiloquent style of the 18-th and early 19-th c. stately residences of Northern Europe. This classic design features beautiful furniture made of natural wood (mostly mahogany, cherry and maple) with usually dark, lacquered finish, soft tufted upholstery of fine natural fabrics or leather, and often ornamented with intricate wood carvings. In design, traditional furniture follows the exquisite aesthetics of Chippendale, Queen Ann and Sheraton styles, known for their elegant curved lines, cabriole legs, charming Rococo embellishments, contrasting inlays and decorative veneers of fine wood.

Massive, heavy and meant to provide comfort and practical functionality, but also of exquisite design and ornamentation, traditional furniture items usually come in pairs and matching sets, and are placed around the room in carefully planned symmetry, never failing to create an attractive focal point. Examples of traditional furniture are large dining sets, commodes and chests, canopy beds, and upholstered Wingback fauteuils, tufted Ottomans, puffs and foot stools, but also some more contemporary interpretations featuring items of more casual and humble design and finishes.

Décor.  The traditional interior décor draws inspiration from traditional values and long-established, historical customs and beliefs, which makes it timeless.

Epic works of fine art, either genuine originals or high-quality reproductions, and hand-embroidered needlepoint tapestries, exhibited in large, richly embellished frames with often gold or bronze finish, as well as classical and antique sculptures displayed in suitable niches or alcoves around the house, are key décor elements of traditionally styled interiors.

Windows feature impressive treatments such as curtains, drapes, valances and swags of fine fabrics, including velvet, plush, damask, and fine canvas and linen, in rich floral motifs or cozy checked or striped patterns.

Walls are perceived as backdrop “canvases”, either painted in soft neutral colors or showcasing large wall art pieces or wall murals.

Lighting’s functionality has been redefined for traditional décor, where all the multiple lamps, sconces and chandeliers are turned into “show-stopping” decorative items rather than being “just” lighting fixtures.

Early 19-th c. Europe felt the strong influence of the mysterious Orient, and so did interior design. Traditional décor cannot be therefore complete without items of fine Chinese porcelain, such as delicate teapots, vases and various figurines, as well as flamboyant Persian rugs and Turkish kilims, and plenty of damask throw pillows.

Finally, since traditional style is strongly about surrounding yourself with things familiar and ancestral, the décor displays all kinds of family-related objects, such as portraits, inherited antiques and collectibles of historical value passed down in the family for generations.

From façade to furniture, bring a touch of the time-tested with traditional décor and design as embodied by our selection of beautiful traditional homes!

August 17, 2016
A Warm, Luxury Rustic Retreat

A Warm, Luxury Rustic Retreat

This mountain mansion in Asheville, North Carolina exceeds all expectations! It's the place to be all year round!
February 24, 2016
The Castle On Tahoe Lake

The Castle on Lake Tahoe

This home was definitely built with grandeur in mind. If you want to feel like a royalty, this one is for you! Enjoy!
February 8, 2016
Luxury Ranch In Santa Barbara

Luxury Ranch Style Above All Others

Resembling a French castle, this astonishing ranch in Santa Barbara will definitely steal your hearts!
July 28, 2015
Dining Room In Balsam Residence

The Stunning Balsam Residence

Balsam residence is a stunning project that features non-traditional layout combined with traditional interiors.
April 3, 2015
Traditional Living Room Design

Organic Elegant Traditional Interiors

The sunny and spacious traditional interiors of this Californian home will enchant you! Great place to relax and enjoy life.
March 1, 2015
Patio Of A Mountain House

Beautiful and Modern Mountain House in Aspen

Contemporary architecture and traditional interior design make for the perfect mountain home by Poss Architecture + Planning.
February 13, 2015
Living Room In A Country Home

Organic Interplays in a Beautiful Neutral Palette

The warm colors of this ranch home’s neutral color palette give it a unique charm and unquestionable style. Take a look inside!
February 11, 2015
Living Room In A Beach House

Dream House on the Beach Down Yonder

This adorable beach house in Australia boasts bright traditional interiors with a touch of modern and open plan living areas.
November 7, 2014
Luxurious Mansion In Toronto

Luxurious Mansion in Toronto

September 14, 2014
Elegant Living Room In A Malibu House

The Malibu House: a Tuscan Romance Revived

This is where romance begins! Mediterranean architecture, generous elegant spaces and amazing garden features await you!
June 27, 2014
Living Room In A San Francisco Home

Wonderful House in San Francisco

This beautifully revamped house by Feldman Architecture will win your hearts with its elegant interiors and bright spacious premises.
June 12, 2014
Tuscan Style Apartment

Tuscan Style by Marie Burgos Designs

Enjoy the romantic Tuscan style incorporated in a contemporary loft apartment in New York, designed by the talented Marie Burgos!