For centuries, interior design has been an integral part of how we decorate our homes. From the grandeur of the French court to the utilitarianism of the British Empire, historical interiors have served as a source of inspiration when it comes to revamping our living space. If you’re after a timeless look, why not try bringing some classic interior design into your home? In this article, we explore how to do just that by adding a touch of history to your daily living.
1. Unlocking the Charm of Classic Interior Design
The charm of classic interior design lies in its timeless appeal. From the wide range of color schemes, furniture types, and decor, there is something for everyone. To unlock the hidden beauty and sophistication of this style, explore these five key aspects:
- Colors: Choose muted, subtle tones to brighten up the room or warm earthy tones for a comforting aesthetic.
- Fabrics: Incorporate classic patterns, such as damasks, toile, and paisleys, into the design. Look for velvets, brocades, and chenilles in soothing shades.
- Furniture: Remember to keep things simple. Choose classically styled chairs and sofas with classic lines, and add accent tables in classic shapes.
- Accessories: Incorporate ornate hardware and finials to add an added touch of luxury. Look for original pieces in antique stores — they make perfect additions.
- Lighting: Look for traditional accent lamps or chandeliers for a touch of elegance.
Create a mix of traditional and modern elements so the design has interest — don’t be afraid to be creative and experiment. Incorporating classic elements is a great way to bring a timeless feel to the room, giving it a touch of classic elegance.
2. Bringing History Into Your Home
History does not only reside in books or on museum walls. It can also come alive in your own home.
- Antiques and Relics – Start collecting antiques or similar artifacts to decorate your home. You can buy them online or at flea markets and antique stores. Take the opportunity to learn more about historical objects and the stories they tell.
- Old furniture – Use vintage furniture to bring historical charm to your home. Look in antique stores, thrift stores, or garage sales for peculiar pieces, recycled materials, and unusual oddities. Even if you don’t find anything that is vintage, you can easily paint and distress new items to give them a more authentically aged look.
An even more creative approach to bring history into your home is to recreate it. Investigate and invent stories surrounding the furniture and items you have. Introduce a bit of whimsy and surprise to your everyday life. Frame family heirlooms that come with a unique story and paint them in an attractive way to display in your living room. By doing so, you help to keep the pieces alive and tell their stories.
Like this, even the smallest portion of history can make a big difference when it comes to decorating your home. History can be so much more than black-and-white images and boring museum visits – it can come to life in the most astonishing manners.
3. Tips for Achieving an Authentically Timeless Look
Opt for Classics
Nothing dates your look quicker than fast fashion. Skyrocketing trends are as fleeting as they are expensive, so embrace classic pieces that won’t flop as quickly as the newest street style. Invest in timeless clothing staples and accessories, like an impressive tote, form-fitting blazers, crisp white shirts, and sleek ankle boots; look for items made from quality fabrics.
Inject Personality
Whilst classics form the basis of a timeless look, inject personality with modern touches that won’t look archaic in five years. Invest in statement jewelry to dress up basics. Play around with color – vibrant and subtle hues can liven up any outfit. Work in contemporary silhouettes and prints, like floral, stripes or polka dots. Subtle details can also help you distance yourself from the past, like raw hems, asymmetric cuts and unexpected pocket placements.
- Opt for classics
- Inject personality
4. The Joys of Classic Interior Design
The beauty of classic interior design is its timeless quality. Some might call it traditional or old-fashioned but its appeal lies in its classics: its symmetrical lines and timeless decorations. Whether it be gold-framed oil paintings, luxurious upholstered armchairs or ornately decorated mantels, classic interiors exude quality and sophistication.
This design style can also be extremely versatile. Using classic elements to create more modern interiors can be an effective way of creating a sophisticated, opulent luxury look. It is also possible to choose a range of different Classical elements to create a unique, personalized look. For example, you can opt for shiny silver accessories for a contemporary take on traditional, or introduce ornate details such as medieval-inspired carved-wood beams to create an eye-catching feature.
- Classic Elements: Gold-framed oil paintings, luxurious upholstered armchairs, ornately decorated mantels and shiny silver accessories.
- Versatility and Personalization: Use available elements to create modern interiors, or customizing details such as carved-wood beams.
Bringing history home may seem like a challenge, but it’s really not an insurmountable feat. With a little creativity and an eye for timeless elegance, you can create interior designs that channel the best of classic style. Together with the right materials, you can create stunning spaces that will last a lifetime.