A modern interior designed according to classic patterns - does it seem impossible? Well, for several seasons now, the modern classic style has been reigning in interior design, gaining more and more popularity with each passing month. This is all thanks to the harmony and extraordinary aesthetics that radiate from spaces arranged in this style. If you dream of an elegant home that has a touch of casualness and surprises you with functionality and innovative solutions, modern classic might just be the perfect choice.
The beginnings of modern classic
Modern classic is a style characterized by maintaining the ideal proportions between classic elements of furnishing, drawn from styles such as glamour, and a modern approach to interior design. This aesthetic arose mainly from the need to create generally accepted norms that allow eclectic spaces, swirling between timeless design and innovative approaches to finishing interiors, to finally gain their status.
Modern classic has gained many fans, and homes or apartments designed in this style dominate the covers of interior magazines. Despite this, many people still do not fully realize where to start when wanting to create a space in line with the assumptions of this form. For all lovers of modern classics, we have created an entry that will bring you closer to the specifics of the modern classic style and also suggest what to consider when arranging your interior in this style.
It is difficult to definitively determine where the modern classic style comes from and when it originated, as it is a concept that is still taking shape. However, it is important to note that one of the main assumptions of this type of space is the synthesis of furniture, accessories, and styles from the 19th century with a progressive approach to creating practical and designer homes. Rooms in the modern classic style are characterized by luxurious finishes, extraordinary precision, and above all, timeless class and high-quality furniture. All of the above features have made this style still associated with the upper class today.
What characterizes the modern classic style
As we have mentioned many times, the most important principle of the modern classic style is the perfect combination of classic and modern elements. It is from these two words that the name of this form derives. This term is extremely simple and perfectly captures the character of the aesthetics preserved in the style in question. The coherence of the interior concept is probably one of the most important, yet also one of the most challenging features of the modern classic style, which requires special attention. In modern, yet classic spaces, there can be no dominance of either trend. This, in turn, directly translates into the necessity of carefully planning the space, taking into account the main purpose of the given place. A home arranged in accordance with the assumptions we will discuss further in this article should be timeless, practical, and above all, noble — these descriptions best capture the atmosphere of the interior design model in question.
Although it may initially seem that combining two styles cannot be difficult (especially now, when ready-made furniture sets and a plethora of inspiration created by professionals can be easily found on the market), it is worth realizing that in the case of modern classic, we are dealing with two extremely different aesthetics that must meet exactly in the middle. This endeavor becomes even more complicated when we realize that the eclecticism of these forms must not only look good but also be consistent with the individual preferences and expectations of the residents. A perfect example of this is the kitchen, which, in addition to great design, should also offer functionality.
Classic colors
Moving on to more detailed information about the modern classic style, we should start with the basics, namely the choice of colors. If you want your interior to be cozy but not oppressive, opt for base colors. In the case of modern classic, various shades of beige, white, light browns, and a wide range of beige and nude colors work best. A wall in too strong a color can not only disturb the order and harmony of the room but also draw attention, which in turn will make both the furniture and accessories less impressive, and the entire aesthetic will not be cohesive. Neutral colors, regardless of the purpose of the space, will ensure that all accessories are better highlighted, and the furniture will take center stage.
Speaking of color selection, it is also worth mentioning that color combinations can occur based on similarity or contrast. The well-known concept of yin and yang assumes that contrasting colors (for example, white and black) complement each other best, creating a cohesive whole. However, arranging based on contrast may prove completely inadequate in the case of the modern classic style.
When choosing shades for walls, furniture, and accessories, it is definitely better to adopt the method known by the mysterious slogan 60-30-10. If you are encountering this unusual terminology for the first time, we are here to explain. This rule is based on the percentage composition of colors, where they should represent 60%, 30%, and 10%. The largest value is reserved for the base color, which is present, among other things, on the walls, large elements such as the floor (including carpets), and furniture. Interestingly, depending on the needs, this color motif can also appear in accessories or textiles; the most important thing is that it constitutes a clear majority. This way, the interior will be harmonious and orderly. The secondary color should make up 30%, aiming to introduce depth and expression to the interior. In this case, the challenge is to maintain balance and remember that this shade should not be as prominent as the base color. The last 10% is the accent color, which is most often present in accessories, textiles, and decorations. This principle is applied not only in modern classic interiors but also in almost every other style.
Maintaining proportions in the form of 60-30-10 aligns with another important rule, namely combining only three colors.
Harmony and symmetry
Another important element is symmetry, which we mentioned at the very beginning of the entry. Introducing the three-color rule and combining them based on the 60-30-10 method will help you maintain symmetry, which will also contribute to maintaining order. The coherence of all furnishing elements will eliminate the possibility of chaos, which is often a side effect of combining several extreme styles.
Designer lighting
Anyone with experience in finishing interiors knows that lighting plays a crucial role in the perception of the entire room. The most important element is, of course, natural light; however, in situations where access to it is hindered for various reasons, it is essential to ensure the most diverse and, at the same time, suitable lighting for the place, needs, and style.
Lamps, chandeliers, and other such products are often perceived solely through the lens of their utility. However, it should be clearly emphasized here that lighting can also serve a decorative function. When choosing a lamp for your home, it is worth paying attention to ensure that it matches the aesthetics of the rest of the room. A well-chosen model, shape, and size of the lamp will provide your space with great design and timeless style.
By illuminating your space, you can influence its perception. Properly managing light will help you visually enlarge the room.
Classic design
Modern classic is a style that draws from the heritage of palaces and manors arranged in accordance with classic and elegant design. In such places, one can often notice luxurious finishes and ubiquitous opulence. The modern classic style seeks to move away from such solutions, opting for minimalism and simple, yet striking forms. Modern design beautifully combines with the aforementioned traditional finishes known from manors, complementing spaces arranged in accordance with classic patterns.
Materials worth using in Modern classic interiors
One of the main features of the modern classic style is, of course, the use of high-quality materials that perfectly reflect the character of the interior. It is worth ensuring the class of the product, whether you are at the stage of choosing flooring, furniture, or home accessories. In such interiors, wooden floors or panels in light colors work well. Velvet (for example, as upholstery for a sofa or in the form of decorations and accessories) also fits well in modern classic interiors.
Decoration and accessories for the home
Accessories and decorations for the home are very important elements that many people forget during their journey of arranging interiors. When choosing decorations for interiors arranged in the modern classic style, pay attention to ensure that they are color-coordinated with the furniture, walls, and floors. In this case, it is also worth following the previously discussed 60-30-10 rule. This will help you create a cozy and, above all, cohesive space that will impress with its appearance. In the case of the modern classic style, it is recommended to use light colors as the so-called base. If the shade that appears most often in your interior is white, gray, or various shades of ecru, you can opt for wooden accessories in the form of picture frames, trays, and coasters, as well as frames for mirrors. In addition to such elements, you can also strive for decorations with sophisticated and unconventional forms that will attract attention. However, remember that these should be individual elements that highlight the design of your space but do not overwhelm it.
How to arrange a home in the modern classic style?
Now that all the basic information about the modern classic style has been presented to you, we can move on to some tips on how to arrange an interior in this climate. Assuming that your space is ready for furnishing (meaning it has a well-chosen floor and neutral colors on the walls), it is worth starting with the selection of furniture. However, before you decide to purchase them, you should carefully plan what exactly you expect from the given room. A good idea would be to use minimalist-shaped furniture with a non-intrusive form and a few strong antique or retro elements. This will give your space the desired eclecticism and great appearance. If you are wondering which vintage elements would work well in such a place, we are here to provide an answer. An interesting solution for living room furniture could be an armchair, while if your priority is the dining room, opt for a sideboard, which is a somewhat forgotten piece of furniture today. While on the topic of the dining room, also pay attention to boldly mixing forms such as wooden chairs and a table with a glass top. This is, of course, just an example illustrating how well combinations can look that most people do not have the courage to try.
How to choose furniture and accessories for the modern classic style?
Choosing furniture and accessories for modern classic interiors is a challenging task that can often take months. It is worth noting that if you want a modern interior with elements of elegant classicism, you do not always have to opt for antique products. More and more often, you can find replicas and innovative furniture that perfectly combine both forms, making them an ideal addition to the space of your dreams. One of the furniture manufacturers maintaining the modern classic climate is the brand Pastform, known for its attention to detail and craftsmanship. Elegant finishes and ubiquitous minimalism combined with classic design make Pastform furniture impress with their extraordinary design. Below, we will present you with a few proposals that will perfectly complement an apartment or house arranged in the modern classic style.
Oak desk Classy Desk
The oak desk Classy Desk is an excellent option for any lover of classic and functionality. The massive construction is based on delicate yet durable legs, creating a well-coordinated whole. Two spacious cabinets symmetrically arranged provide additional space for storing documents. The Classy Desk is made of high-quality oak wood, which gives the desk a designer look.
RAON chest of drawers
The extremely interesting Roan chest of drawers is a stunning piece of furniture that almost every design lover would want to have in their interior. Its unconventional appearance combined with a classic shape creates a cohesive yet intriguing whole. Spacious shelves and designer fronts of the Roan chest of drawers provide the interior with excellent appearance and functionality. There is an option to modify the dimensions and wood color.
RATO shelf
The interesting idea for the Rato shelf surprises even the most demanding customers. Although the shape of the Rato shelf is a classic rectangle, its characteristic and unusual construction makes the design of the shelf from the Rato collection add style to almost any room. The use of fillings in the back of the shelf gives the impression that the entire project is incredibly light and free.
Black VINI coffee table
Originality and inspiration from classics — this is what the Vini coffee table is all about. The black color gives the table elegance, while the characteristic shape evokes the colorful 60s, which were marked by a departure from restrictive norms. An innovation is the use of legs that can be both straight and angled. You can also choose their color: black or brown.
