Traditional Interior Design
Traditional interior design imitates classic European decor. It’s a familiar, comforting interior design style that has roots in the traditions of many past generations while not being tied to a particular era.
Traditional interior design became popular in the 20th century as postwar suburbs expanded and people wanted to reflect the interior design traditions of 18th- and 19th-century Europe, especially France and England.
Traditional Interior Design Style
Elements of this style are usually comprised of deep wood tones, architectural details and sophisticated furnishings. This style is quite versatile and can be combined with other interior fundamentals to create an exclusive, customised look in your home.
One of the most important aspects of traditional interior design is the silhouettes, or the lines, of the furnishings. Wing-backed chairs, claw-footed tables and curved furniture are classic examples of 18th and 19th-century pieces that are frequently used in traditional styles.
Antiques are also often used in traditional interior design, but these days many companies sell new pieces that mimic the style of real antique furniture.
Sophisticated traditional interior design often highlights simplicity and comfort in its layout. Combinations of furniture and accessories are common in this design style.
This is often done to create a feeling of symmetry around a central point such as a favourite work of art, a fireplace or a large piece of furniture.
7 Elements of Traditional Interior Design
These 5 features will guide you through your layout and furniture options in order to put together a traditional interior.
- Rich Colours: The walls are characteristically painted neutral to visually ground the intricate furnishings. Larger furniture items feature jewel-toned shades of red, blue, green and brown. Artwork and accessories often include vibrant colours that draw the eye to the centre of a traditionally designed room.
- Opulent Fabrics: Block-coloured fabrics are a staple of this style, but traditional design also incorporates patterns like florals, damasks or paisleys. The textiles are luxurious; thinksilk, velvet or cashmere. Many interior designers also integrate more affordable fabrics such as cotton or linen. If you choose the latter, you can use accent pieces like throw pillows and rugs in costlier textiles.
- Dark Wood: Rich wood tones are another key component in traditional interior design. Dark woods like cherry, maple, and mahogany are characteristically used in furniture pieces of this style. These are often carved and lacquered to give them a deluxe, sophisticated feel. Wood floors are also considered a staple for this decor.
- Elaborate Accents: Traditional interior design uses architectural embellishments extensively. These can be elaborate mouldings, bevelled wood panelling and complex tile and wood floor patterns. Arches, columns and bespoke built-in cabinetry are also common features of this type of design.
- Symmetry: A traditional interior uses symmetry in the spacing of furniture and walkways. Objects are paired to create a sense of harmony, such as two armchairs with a lamp on either side. This is in contrast to the Victorian interior design style, which is centred around distinct juxtaposition and strong contrasts.
- Functionality: Traditional interior design features rooms that are be functional and comfortable with an emphasis on family-friendly spacing and decor.
Traditional Interior Design at FCI London
At FCI, we’ve had nearly 40 years of experience in designing home interiors. From traditional to rustic to Victorian, our designers can incorporate any design style you want into your home or combine several styles to create an eclectic space that is uniquely yours.
Testimonials are the best way for you to measure what we do, so take a look at what our customers are saying about us. Then get in touch for a chat and let’s discuss your interior design dreams.
