Modern traditional interior design combines the clean lines and simplicity of modern design with the warmth and elegance of traditional elements.
Modern traditional interior design combines the clean lines and simplicity of modern design with the warmth and elegance of traditional elements.
Design by Jessica Helgerson | Photography by Aaron Leitz
When it comes to interior design, the modern traditional style is a popular choice for those who want to blend the best of both worlds.
Here, we cover the key features of the modern traditional style to help you add a unique and personal touch to your home by creating a look that is both timeless and current.
Design by Heidi Caillier | Photography by Haris Kenjar
What is modern traditional interior design?
Modern vs. Traditional
Modern design is an interior design style characterized by a monochromatic color palette, clean lines, minimalism, natural materials, and natural light. Modernism reflects a stress-free approach to life with minimal decor and an emphasis on industrial materials.
Traditional design is rooted in often inspired by 18th and 19th-century designs in a way that celebrates the classic and comforting elements of design while embracing timeless but not overly fancy styles rather than what’s trending.
Modern Traditional Style
The modern traditional style is essentially a mix of modern and traditional styles and elements that gives a modernized traditional feel.
Design by BHDM Design | Photography by Adam Kane Macchia
This style creates a timeless feel with a modern edge / gives an updated traditional look
Now, let’s explore the key features of modern traditional interior design.
1. Harmonious Fusion of Old and New
Incorporating vintage or antique pieces into a modern setting or by adding modern elements to a traditional space is one way to achieve this harmonious blending of old and new. This creates a sense of history and character in the space while still keeping it fresh and modern.
Design by House of Seven
For instance, a vintage chandelier can be hung in a modern living room to add a touch of elegance and history, while a sleek and contemporary sofa can be paired with an antique coffee table to create a stylish and inviting space.
Design and Architecture by Mark Gillette | Photography by Alexander James
2. Clean Lines
Clean lines are an important element of modern traditional style. Featuring furniture styles with clean lines or architectural features that have a simple and uncluttered look helps to create a sense of balance and harmony in your home.
Design by Ashley Montgomery Design | Photography by Lauren Miller | Styled by Meg Crossley and Morgan Michener | Home Tour
3. Traditional Woodwork
Traditional wood details in furniture piece and casework such as cabinets and millwork can add a touch of historical elegance to your home.
Design by Albion Nord | Photography by Haris Kenjar
Featuring modern silhouettes and clean lines in spaces with traditional details is a perfect technique for adding warmth and comfort while still keeping the design modern and sophisticated.
4. Natural Materials
Using natural wood, stone, and textiles your design infuses a space with a sense of authenticity and organic beauty.
Design by Kara Childress, Inc. | Architecture by Ryan Street Architects
Whether leaning traditional with wooden beams or furniture or going big and bold with modern marble slabs, these materials are not only visually appealing but also add texture to a space, creating a sense of comfort and coziness that speaks beautifully to traditional design.
Design by Means & Carney Interiors | Architecture by Amanda Orr | Photography by Emily Followill / Erin Jillian
No renovation is necessary to take advantage of this timeless trend. You can incorporate furniture and décor crafted from natural materials to achieve this look for your space.
5. Neutral Palette with Pops of Color
How color is used plays a large part in achieving a modern traditional design.
Design by Katie Holloman | Build by Jackson & Leroy | Photography by Lucy Call | Styling by Marcie Busath
Neutral and muted tones such as beige, gray, and white are often used as a base color palette, while pops of color are added in the form of accent pieces, furniture, or artwork.
Design by Nina Farmer Interiors | Photography by Stephen Kent Johnson | Styling by Michael Reynolds | Home Tour
6. Layered Textures, Patterns, and Materials
Layering a variety of textures, patterns, and materials is a crucial piece of achieving the modern traditional look.
Design by Jessica Helgerson | Photography by Aaron Leitz
An intentional blend of modern and traditional patterns, finishes, accessories, lighting, and artwork lends depth and interest while adding a sense of warmth and comfort to any space to really.
Modern Traditional Design: A Versatile and Evergreen Style
Modern traditional interior design is a versatile approach to creating a modern yet familiar and comfortable space that exudes your individuality and suits your lifestyle.
By mindfully blending old with new through layered textures, patterns, and materials, use of natural materials and inclusion of vintage-inspired accessories, you can achieve a unique and personality-filled space that is both timeless and contemporary.
Just as obsessed with Modern Traditional design as we are? Discover more inspiration through our Modern Traditional Home Tours. Ashley Montgomery Design’s Glengrove home evokes a sense of timeless charm and elegance alongside an eclectic, fresh feel throughout, reinventing the 90s home you grew up in with modern and traditional accents. Or take a step inside Nina Farmer’s storybook stone house for an unexpected, and timeless Modern Traditional Design.
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