Among all of the different ways to design interiors, the traditional interior design style is one of the most enduring and beloved styles. Rooted in timeless elegance, this style balances classic beauty and symmetry with comfort.
Here at Barron Designs, the traditional style is one of our favorites—and we have many great products that perfectly align with this style. That’s why we’re going to explore the origins, defining features, and recent trends for this iconic style.
Origins of the Traditional Style Interior Design
Hand Hewn Faux Wood Beams in Caramel
The traditional interior design style is something of a melting pot of ideas and influences from different cultures and time periods. It’s predominately a European style that emerged during the 18th and 19th centuries—though many of the design elements that are prominent in this style come from much earlier.
That’s because the designers of that era were heavily inspired by classical antiquity. The traditional style steered away from heavy, dramatic ornamentation like what had been common in the Tudor style and other styles that were prominent in the centuries just prior to the Victorian era. For example, ornate china in rich colors went by the wayside as people started to favor more classical Greek vase shapes in muted, creamy colors. During this period, woodwork like crown molding and wainscoting came into vogue, too.
What is Traditional Interior Design Today?
Driftwood Faux Wood Mantel in Early American
So what is the traditional interior design style in the modern era? It’s evolved over the years to include not only the elements and design ideas that the Victorians favored, but also elements from other styles, like craftsman, mid-century modern, and farmhouse styles. Some of the most important hallmarks of today’s traditional style include:
- An emphasis on order and balance, meaning that room layouts are typically symmetrical and designed around focal points like fireplaces or large windows.
- The use of classic, elegant architectural details like crown molding, beamwork, or wainscoting.
- A tendency toward neutral color schemes—sometimes accessorized with jewel tones or darker, richer colors.
- A focus on comfort through the use of soft and luxurious textiles like velvet and cotton, often featuring classic patterns like florals or plaids.
Today’s Traditional Interior Design Trends
Old Chicago Faux Brick Wall Panel in Glacier
While the traditional interior design style has been a mainstay for centuries, today’s trends offer a modern take on a classic theme. Here are some of the new trends to look out for when you’re creating a traditional interior design:
- Some designers are mixing traditionalism with minimalism. For example, instead of crown moldings or wainscoting, designers may introduce the look of wood through more simple, square-cut ceiling beams instead—something like our Rough Hewn Faux Wood Beams, for example.
- The world is becoming a more interconnected place—and because of that, many of today’s traditional designs also mix in a few elements from around the globe to offer a more exotic look. Try boldly patterned fabrics or chunkier textures like rattan to mix in more visual interest.
- Wallpapers and textured walls are making a comeback. Try a wallpaper featuring a traditional pattern, or introduce both color and texture through brickwork. For example, our Old Chicago Faux Brick Wall Panel will create an appealing focal wall that is well-aligned with a traditional theme.
- In older versions of the traditional design style, designers placed emphasis on keeping everything classic. Today’s trend is to hybridize things a bit by decorating with accents from both modern and classic eras.
Capture Traditional Interior Design with Barron Designs Products
Today’s traditional interior design style is built on centuries of inspiration. Originally, it marked a return to themes once common in classical antiquity. That still holds true today—but modern designers have also added their own unique takes to this theme, too. It’s a versatile, always timeless style that allows for a lot of creativity. Best of all, if you want to create or amplify the traditional style within your own home, Barron Designs offers many products that can help you capture the essence of the style. Browse our popular selection of mantels, faux wall panels, beams, and other architectural elements to discover the possibilities.
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