How to tone down traditional design?
We just closed on a house today, and we love it... but the previous owners went for a traditional aesthetic, so lots of molding and ornate fixtures. We're open to lots of styles, but this one has always felt too fancy for us. How can we nudge towards transitional/midcentury/modern without having to tear stuff apart, or making it feel mismatched?
- Most of the furniture we own is modern, minimalist, or scandinavian. Will this look out of place, and if so, is there anything we can do to unify it all?
- We do plan to replace the light fixtures over time. The dining room seems easy because it can be a statement piece, but what about ceiling lights/fans? Are there styles that will or won't clash?
- We do need 1-2 rugs for downstairs, but I think that's the least likely item to disagree with the house itself. Correct me if I'm wrong!
Comments (7)
junco East Georgia zone 8a
3 years agoRelated Discussions
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3 years agoanna_682
3 years ago
Maureen
3 years agolast modified: 3 years agoMCM is going to be the hard one but you can certainly achieve modern or Scandinavian with the right combinations.
- If budget allows, strip flooring
- In room off staircase, I would paint walls and coffered ceiling white and add a new chandelier.
- Actually would paint all of the first floor white
- Stairs could be updated when budget allows
Once you move in and see your furniture and rugs etc in place, you’ll get a sense of what stands out and changes you want to do asap and things that can wait. In the meantime, start searching for inspiration pictures.Good luck and enjoy your new home.
Carolae
3 years agoIf you want ceiling fans, I would do all white ones with three blades in a more contemporary style, like this one. I have this Casablanca fan in three bedrooms with white ceilings and I barely notice them. (I used a shorter rod so it’s closer to the ceiling.)
tartanmeup