In our fast-paced world, where tradition is often traded for aesthetics and minimalism, the traditional way of designing spaces in one’s home has stood the test of time.
You can typically find neutral walls and symmetrical arrangements of vintage furniture handed down by generations in any home.
A traditional interior design is expected to be predictable, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be stylish as well. There are so many ways you can incorporate traditional interior design into your living room area.
When it comes to decorating a space, there are many things to consider, such as wallpaper, color schemes, décor, and accents. Here are some tips to get started on designing a classic and timeless traditional living room:
A distinguishing characteristic of a traditionally styled room is symmetry.
Rooms and spaces are well-balanced on both sides. Usually, when there is a sofa on the right side, there will also be another one on the left. This tricks the eye into thinking that space is mirrored, making it look more spacious.
There should also be a centerpiece to balance the space out, typically a coffee table or a fireplace.
Homes with bigger spaces will have both, which makes them more pleasing to the eye. For homes that have smaller square footage, ottomans or stools can take the place of a coffee table. This way, guests can move the furniture around and, at the same time, have ample seating for conversations.
A color scheme around the beige or gray palette would match a traditional living room most.
Walls are often painted neutral, but the windows can be decorated with brightly colored or printed curtains. This allows a pop of color in the background without distracting the eye.
As a general rule, colors are somewhat muted, so artworks and plant pots should complement the room’s color scheme. For example, if a light blue shade is the room’s overall theme, then artworks with colors such as yellow and bright red in them would surely be an eyesore.
Wooden floors.
Wooden floors, especially those with a darker tone, match the room nicely. They offer a timeless look and blend well with the wooden furniture and light-toned chairs and décor. Neutral carpet colors will complement the floors nicely, giving a luxurious but subtle effect. Wool carpets are a great choice since they are durable and are excellent insulators in the winter months.
Looking for the Perfect Furniture.
You would think that choosing furniture for this type of space is quite restrictive, but that is not the case. Bookcases can give the room a classic look, especially when they are made of hardwood. This also solves many storage problems that smaller spaces come with.
Shelves and cabinets found in the space should match bookcases and other hardwood accents.
One or two modern elements such as an elegant lampshade or a small chandelier can also complement the space, as long as the colors are in the scheme and not too eye-catching.
Sofas and armchairs should complement each other, so they should ideally be bought as a set. Since the central idea of a living room is based on comfort and a space to relax, consider seats that are proven and tested to be both comfortable and durable.
Furniture is a bit heavy and grand, with pieces with carved wood and upholstery. Since a living room like this is heavily influenced by the décor of the 18th and 19th centuries, expect parts to be inspired lightly by royalty.
Since consistency and elegance are expected in such a style, accessories are often grand.
Vases and mirrors are usually colored gold or silver, paintings and artwork are displayed lavishly, and floor-to-ceiling curtains focus on a focal point in the middle.
Drapes, upholstery, and curtains in a traditional living room are often made of higher-end fabrics such as velvet, leather, or silk. This makes the room look a bit more luxurious without sacrificing the color scheme with the walls and furniture. Gilded mirrors, oil and acrylic paintings in fancy frames, and vintage furniture items are the way to go.
Social media has made it easier to share beautifully styled interiors; Instagram and Pinterest are havens for those looking for inspiration on furniture pieces and wallpaper choices. Minimalism and modern designs may fit home offices and bedrooms, but there’s nothing that beats a traditional living room. With the comforts of contemporary life surrounding people everywhere, nothing feels homier than a classic and symmetrical interior. While trends may come and go, traditional living rooms will always be timeless.
