Traditional, Not Stodgy: Oh Yes, It's Possible
My house is mostly modern, but as I get older, I find myself sneaking in more and more traditional elements. I think I'm getting more open-minded in my old age, and realizing that just because something's traditional and a bit conservative, that doesn't automatically mean it's uncool.
That realization got me looking for great examples of interiors that are traditional, but lack the stodginess I used to associate with the word. Finding them was easier than I'd anticipated.
Here are a few great examples of what I mean:
That realization got me looking for great examples of interiors that are traditional, but lack the stodginess I used to associate with the word. Finding them was easier than I'd anticipated.
Here are a few great examples of what I mean:
All of the elements of this dining room - even the fact that it IS a formal dining room - are traditional. But there's something just a little unusual and really appealing about the combination of white and that great purple.
This kitchen is full of traditional - even vaguely countryish - elements, but they really work together to create a comfortable and pretty space.
Similarly, this kitchen is traditional down to the last detail, but its cool color palette keeps it fresh.
Elephants and plates on display give off a slightly British colonial feel, but pairing them with a simple striped sofa makes them more fun and casual than stuffy.
This combination of traditional elements - marbly countertop, glass vases, simple colors, creates a pretty bathroom.
Sailboats have great lines and I love how they look in simple rooms. In this room, the clean lines of the little boat are a great contrast with the elegant mirror.
This pretty kitchen has a fantastic set of shelves - they're surprising in front of the window, but look really nice.
A pretty mirror, built-in bookshelves, simple furniture - I like the way this room combines traditional elements in a somewhat spare way. It keeps the overall look clean.
Like the room above, this room's simplicity and lack of clutter gives it a fresh look, though it is, ultimately, very traditional.
Pedastal sinks and sinks with exposed pipes feel very traditional to me - but also very cool.
This room defines "traditional" to me - from the black and white tile floor to the gold picture frame. Somehow, though, it doesn't feel stuffy. Maybe it's the flowers, or maybe there's something about the chair, but it actually feels inviting.