Sitting perfectly somewhere in between the style of 'Luxury Hotel' and 'Traditional' Modern Classic Interior Design communicates understated, yet polished grandeur. Interiors feel: established, clean, refined and comfortable.
When entering a Modern Classic Interior nothing draws your attention too loudly, instead the room begins to slowly tell a story, you should start to feel a sense of calm. There is definitely whispers of heritage in the space but no sentimentality, the mood of the room is fresh.
In Modern Classic Interior Design a classic cornice would always be framing the space, sitting confidently above modern silhouettes of abstract furniture, a glass table holds a delicate antique with touches of conceptual artwork that subtly draw your eye.
Throughout this style guide join us as we help old and new have a conversation blending history with the present day.
What is Modern Classic interior design?
Modern Classic interior design is all about combining traditional features with a more modern and relaxed style. It brings together the character and elegance of classic interiors with the clean lines and simplicity you would normally see in a contemporary home.
What are the Main Features of Modern Classic Interior Design?
| Open Living | Spaces are continuous and spacious to encourage socialising and more light, different zones should be flexible to make spaces feel larger. |
| Symmetry | Rooms are built around a central focal point with more symmetry created using matching light fixtures, wall panelling and coordinated decor. |
| Subtle Contrasts | Create muted contrasts with colour, furniture and texture. Add pops of light and dark, old and new or smooth and rough. |
| Wall Treatments | Plaster Coving, Plaster Ceiling Roses and Plaster Panel Mouldings are kept in modern classic interiors only finished in soft neutral tones. |
| Light Masking | Lights should be targeted to illuminate specific areas or surface to create a relaxing ambience, dimmable lights and concealed LED lighting systems are great choices when creating a Modern Classic Interior. |
| Anchoring | Build your interior around dominant grounded details such as fireplaces, statement sofas or textured areas to create order and add feelings of calm. |
Is coving essential for a Modern Classic interior?
Coving is timeless and adds a refined quality to any space. When designing a Modern Classic interior, focus on adding classic architectural elements to walls and ceilings. The style is about balancing traditional architectural details with a more contemporary style. Coving is one of the easiest ways to introduce that traditional element, particularly in newer homes that may otherwise lack architectural character.
If you want to use coving, you don’t necessarily need an elaborate or highly decorative profile. A simple, clean-lined design can work beautifully with modern furniture and neutral colours. Our Swan Neck Coving complements a modern classic interior perfectly.
Why are ceiling roses used in Modern Classic interiors?
Ceiling Roses are often used in Modern Classic interiors because they add a traditional architectural detail without making the room feel overly formal.
They can also help to create a nice contrast between classic and contemporary elements. For example, a decorative ceiling rose paired with a simple modern pendant light can make the lighting feel more like a feature while keeping the rest of the room clean and understated.
Some of the main reasons people use ceiling roses in Modern Classic interiors are:
- They add character to otherwise plain ceilings.
- They create a focal point around a pendant or chandelier.
- They bring a traditional element into a modern space.
- They work well with other details such as coving, wall moulding and decorative skirting.
- They can make a room feel more finished and considered.
- They can help give newer properties a sense of architectural character.
The style and size of the ceiling rose are important. A very ornate, oversized design can make a room feel more traditional, while a simpler rose can sit comfortably within a contemporary interior. Our Plain Spun Ceiling Rose range is a beautiful final touch, clean lines, subtle yet makes a huge statement.
What colours are used in Modern Classic Interior Design?
Modern classic interior design focus on a creating a calm atmosphere with a sophisticated base of soft whites, warm creams, greiges and beiges, Deep accent colours such as black, navy or charcoal are then used to create contrast, all finished with metallic tones such as gold or bronze.
A Modern Classic inspired interior should feel warm, clean and refined with muted colours and controlled contrasting choices.
What defines a Modern Classic interior?
This iconic design style is achieved by mastering a coordinated blend of classic details with modern flair. In a nutshell it’s about combining beautiful traditional details such as coving, plaster mouldings or even antiques with modern touches and finishes. Modern Classic is an aesthetic that goes beyond design trends, it achieves a perfect contrast of traditional elegance and modern simplicity that is both timeless and enduring.
Why is Modern Classic interior design so popular?
Modern Classic styled interiors are timeless and can effortlessly be applied to any property no matter the type, it also offers a calm and relaxing atmosphere making it a popular style choice for both interior designers and homeowners.
Can you achieve Modern Classic style on a budget?
Yes, you can definitely achieve a Modern Classic interior on a budget. The style is less about how much you spend and more about choosing the right details and combining them carefully.
One of the easiest ways to create the look is to focus on the architectural details first. Adding coving, panel moulding or a ceiling roses can make a room feel more finished and give it a classic character without having to completely redecorate.
For Interiors Inspired by Modern Classic Elegance and Timeless Symmetry, We Recommend:
Ceiling Roses:
- MPR073 - a classic finishing touch that add's a sophisticated and polished focal point.
- LPR020 - Ideal for adding wow factor that is still understated, the Adams Sunburst plaster ceiling rose will also compliment symmetry
- LPR049 - Will instantly add embellished grandeur that is still simple and refined.
Coving:
- MPC039 - Works best on average size ceilings and creates a sleek transition from wall - ceiling that is detailed and modern.
- LPC027 - Elevates any space with high ceilings the clean symmetrical lines provide a finish that is clean and sophisticated.
- LPC030 - Our classic Swan Neck Profile provide a blend that is both traditional and luxurious, our top pick for Modern Classic inspired interiors.
Plaster Mouldings:
- MR016 - Create symmetrical lines that had a sleek element to ceilings and walls.
- PC011 - Make a statement with plaster corbels and finish in chalky white to subtly nod to a bygone era.