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Traditional Design Elements
Traditional interior design is just what it sounds like—a classic, warm, comforting, familiar home décor style that is rooted in the traditions of the 18th and 19th century European style.
Architectural elements such as crown molding and wainscoting are common. They add richness and seemingly expand the proportions of a room. Gilded mirrors leaned against or hung on a wall offer a variation on intricate wall molding but without the construction work. Furniture pieces should be captivating and full of character. Do not use minimal, modern pieces as they will dampen the comfy feel of the room. Avoid anything made of lacquer, veneer, or laminate.
In traditional design, the emphasis is more on pattern than color. A good way to choose colors is to pick one from the predominant pattern in the room (upholstery, rugs, fabrics) and use tones of that color for everything. Use the lightest shade on the walls to draw attention to the furnishings and other features of the room.
Textiles can be rich and varied resources for injecting riotous yet classic color and pattern throughout your home and ultimately, the sky is the limit. Go for nature scenes for upholstery and cushions and contrast them with bold stripes while avoiding geometric shapes or designs, which are too sterile for this style.
Bare windows in a traditional home are a definite no-no. Window treatments and coverings are key. Go for dramatic Austrian shades, floor to ceiling neutral toned drapes, and decadent velvet curtains in rich jewel tones.
Architectural elements such as crown molding and wainscoting are common. They add richness and seemingly expand the proportions of a room. Gilded mirrors leaned against or hung on a wall offer a variation on intricate wall molding but without the construction work. Furniture pieces should be captivating and full of character. Do not use minimal, modern pieces as they will dampen the comfy feel of the room. Avoid anything made of lacquer, veneer, or laminate.
In traditional design, the emphasis is more on pattern than color. A good way to choose colors is to pick one from the predominant pattern in the room (upholstery, rugs, fabrics) and use tones of that color for everything. Use the lightest shade on the walls to draw attention to the furnishings and other features of the room.
Textiles can be rich and varied resources for injecting riotous yet classic color and pattern throughout your home and ultimately, the sky is the limit. Go for nature scenes for upholstery and cushions and contrast them with bold stripes while avoiding geometric shapes or designs, which are too sterile for this style.
Bare windows in a traditional home are a definite no-no. Window treatments and coverings are key. Go for dramatic Austrian shades, floor to ceiling neutral toned drapes, and decadent velvet curtains in rich jewel tones.
