Transforming Your Living Room with Traditional Décor
If you’re looking to create a timeless and elegant living space, traditional décor might be the style for you. From French country to neoclassical, traditional design encompasses a wide range of decorating styles that exude classic charm and sophistication. But don’t be fooled into thinking traditional spaces are outdated or stuffy. Interior designers today are putting a fresh and modern twist on traditional style, giving it a contemporary flair that is both inviting and stylish.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore 19 traditional decorating ideas for living rooms that will inspire you to transform your own space. From classic furnishings to elegant wallpaper, antique accents, and thoughtful color schemes, we will delve into the key elements that define traditional design. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy den or a bright and airy living room, we’ve got you covered with tips and examples that will help you achieve the traditional look you desire.
What is Traditional Décor?
Traditional décor is all about creating a sense of timeless elegance and sophistication in your living space. It often incorporates classic furnishings, rich fabrics, intricate details, and a warm color palette. Key features of traditional design include:
- Classic furniture pieces such as Chesterfield sofas, wing chairs, and antique accents
- Elegant wallpaper and luxurious fabrics like velvet and silk
- Rich, warm color schemes with a mix of neutrals and deep, rich tones
- Symmetrical arrangements and balanced proportions
- Statement lighting fixtures and decorative elements
In the following sections, we will explore different traditional decorating ideas for living rooms, showcasing how this classic style can be adapted to suit various tastes and preferences.
Country Club Traditional
One way to give traditional style a fresh and modern update is to incorporate elements of the Country Club Traditional aesthetic. By blending classic furnishings with contemporary accents, you can create a space that feels both timeless and current. For example, you can add personality to a neutral dining room with pretty patterned wallpaper that creates visual interest. Pay attention to texture by layering different materials like cowhide over seagrass rugs, adding a layer of softness that makes the space feel more inviting.
Traditional Dining Room That Feels Modern
If you’re looking to create a traditional dining room with a fresh and hip vibe, consider incorporating elements of modern design. Mix formal furniture pieces with contemporary accents to strike the perfect balance between classic and current. For example, a vintage art deco buffet adds sophistication to the room, while a bold art piece on the wall adds visual interest. Remember to incorporate greenery to liven up the space and add a touch of nature.
How to Create a Traditional Living Room
Creating a traditional living room starts with choosing the right furniture pieces and arranging them in a symmetrical and balanced way. A Chesterfield sofa can set the tone for the room, while matching sets of end tables, table lamps, and accent chairs create a cohesive look. A large painting over the sofa can unify the room’s color scheme and tie everything together.
Bright and Airy Traditional Living Room
For a traditional living room with a bright and airy vibe, focus on creating a mix of small decorative pieces that blend seamlessly with a neutral color scheme. Metallic accents like brass sculptures and marble coffee table legs can add a touch of glamour to the space. Custom cabinetry and exacting millwork can lend an air of elegance, while Belgian-inspired sofas and contemporary club chairs create a balanced and sophisticated seating arrangement.
Beach Inspired Traditional Decor
Traditional decorating can also be inspired by the beach, creating a space that feels both formal and approachable. By incorporating traditional elements like landscape paintings, tone-on-tone color schemes, and symmetrical arrangements, you can create a relaxing and soothing space that still feels elegant. Embrace symmetry with matching sofas and floor lamps, and anchor the room with a focal point like a fireplace or piece of artwork.
This Foyer Makes a Stellar First Impression
Make a chic first impression with a traditional foyer that features old-world inspired furnishings and elegant details. Incorporate classic pieces like Louis armchairs, rounded cabinets, and quatrefoil mirrors to create a sense of timeless elegance. Superb wainscoting can dress up the walls and add texture, while sparkling accents like mirrors and chandeliers can add a touch of glamour.
Symmetrical Interior Design
Symmetry is a hallmark of traditional design, as it creates balance and harmony in a space. In a traditional sitting room, focus on neutral tones highlighted by soft metallic accents, and notice the symmetry in the arrangement of end tables, mirrors, and lamps. Delicate wallpaper patterns can add a touch of elegance, while impressionist paintings can lend warmth and personality to the room.
Beautiful White Bedroom with Walnut Furniture
Create a modern yet traditional bedroom by incorporating white furniture with walnut accents. Matching end tables and ceramic lamps can flank the bed for a cohesive look, while an upholstered headboard adds a touch of luxury. Punch up the room with flowers and greenery to add small doses of color and texture.
How to Blend Decorative Accents
Blend decorative pieces from different periods and artistic traditions to create a stunning vignette that reflects traditional style. Incorporate brass accents like drawer knobs and statement lighting to unify the look, and create symmetry with matching lamps and accessories. Personal touches like a prized sculpture can add a sense of individuality and character to the space.
Traditional White Kitchen
Traditional kitchens are characterized by architectural details, old-world inspired furniture, and quality materials. In a white kitchen, embrace tasteful embellishments like crown molding, custom hood surrounds, and marble backsplashes. Quality materials like black marble countertops and spindle bar stools can add a touch of old-fashioned charm, while creating a classic and timeless look.
Cozy and Elegant Den
Create a cozy and elegant den with traditional design elements like dark color schemes, leather furniture, and traditional rugs. Built-in bookcases can add practical function and symmetry to the room, while a focal point like a piano or gallery wall can add visual interest. Soften the space with plush rugs and throw pillows for added comfort.
Traditional Dining Room Dressed in Yellow
Add a pop of color to a traditional dining room with yellow accents that create a sunny and inviting space. Pretty patterned curtains and velvet upholstered chairs can add a touch of luxury, while an iron chandelier and farmhouse-inspired table can add a fresh and contemporary spin. By combining traditional elements with modern touches, you can create a unique and stylish dining room that reflects your personal style.
Creating a Tasteful Vignette
Create a tasteful vignette with traditional roots by blending pieces from different eras and artistic styles. Anchor the display with a glass-topped sideboard and coordinate the color scheme with framed art and matching lamps. Personal touches like a prized sculpture can add character and charm to the space, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Brighten Up With Traditional Colors
Blue and coral are favorite traditional design colors that can add brightness and warmth to a space. In a Victoria revival style room, incorporate these lovely hues into the walls and accents to create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere. Metallic accents like brass fire screens and crystal chandeliers can add a touch of glamour, while rugs and textiles can tie the color scheme together.
Pitch Perfect Traditional Living Room
Create an opulent yet welcoming living room with traditional design elements like Oriental rugs, luxurious fabrics, and classic accents. Incorporate warm and beautiful colors with statement pieces like accent pillows and carved accent chairs. Vintage furniture pieces like Chinoiserie coffee tables can add a touch of old-world charm, while creating a space that is both comfortable and elegant.
Traditional Decorating Can Feel Eclectic
Traditionally decorated spaces can also feel eclectic and unique, with a mix of different styles and eras coming together to create a cohesive and stylish look. In a large living room, combine mid-century modern furniture with traditional accents for a comfortable yet elegant space. Carefully choose and arrange décor pieces to create a clutter-free and harmonious atmosphere that reflects your personal style and taste.
Make a Statement With Quirky Antiques
Make a stylish statement with a traditional interior filled with quirky and unique antiques that reflect your personality and taste. In a bedroom filled with found pieces, embrace the character and charm of antique furniture and decorative accessories. Mix and match different styles and eras to create a personalized and eclectic space that tells a story and adds visual interest to your home.
Traditional Girls Bedroom
Create a traditional girl’s bedroom with a romantic and charming touch by incorporating French provincial furniture and ballerina pink walls. Matching nightstands and lamps can flank the bed for a cohesive look, while an upholstered bench at the foot of the bed can add a touch of luxury. Finish the space with elegant crown molding for a sophisticated and timeless look.
Elegant Kitchen Lighting
Elevate your traditional kitchen with elegant lighting fixtures that add a touch of glamour and sophistication to the space. Incorporate statement lighting like chrome lantern pendants that create a focal point and add personality to the room. Pretty fabric and fine furniture can dress up the space, while navy accents and neutral shades can add depth and visual interest to the design.
Incorporating traditional design elements into your living room can create a cozy and inviting space that exudes timeless elegance and sophistication. By blending classic furnishings with contemporary accents, you can create a harmonious and stylish look that reflects your personal style and taste. Whether you prefer a bright and airy space or a cozy den, traditional décor offers a wide range of decorating ideas that can be tailored to suit your lifestyle and preferences. So, embrace the beauty and charm of traditional design and create a living room that exudes warmth and sophistication for years to come.
