How to Create a Modern Interior with Classical Motifs: 4 Tips, 15 Examples

Geometric patterns, practicality, open space, and functionality — these are the main ideas behind what is called contemporary. This is a modern classic style, representing a variety of details against a backdrop of minimalist simplicity. A few of our tips will help you navigate in the right direction if you've decided to decorate your apartment in this popular and highly sought-after style today.

1. Main Colors and Textures

The basis as a basic wardrobe is convenient, beautiful, and never goes out of style. Of course, we're talking about pastel tones. Beige, gray, cream, muted khaki, white, and even cocoa. The main rule is no sharp transitions. Tones blend smoothly into one another — from wall to wall, from room to room. Pastels float and sway, creating the perfect, unobtrusive, and comfortable background for your future interior.

As for materials and textures, there are no strict rules. Wood, metal, stone, glass. High-quality expensive materials like rare woods and marble can easily coexist with metal panels or plastic. Modern classic subtly borrows various techniques from contemporary finishing methods. Unfinished brick walls or wallpapers, concrete or leather — almost anything is acceptable. But a sense of moderation is essential. Exaggerated decoration can appear, but only very precisely and minimally.

2. Furniture

When it comes to furniture, there is a real game of contrasts. Two seemingly opposing elements collide — functionality and elegance. In reality, these irreconcilable rivals complement each other beautifully and create an unexpectedly comfortable, ergonomic, and refined symbiosis.

First of all — storage systems. This can be a light wardrobe with floor-to-ceiling doors, soft white carpet, and metal shelves for shoes. Just like in Kerry Bredshaw's dream home. The storage system can be built-in or modular. The main distinctive feature is strict forms, clean and precise lines. Cabinets must be sleek and occupy the wall from floor to ceiling. Doors should extend as high as possible.

It's very important to choose the central elements of the room carefully. In the living room, for example, it's soft furniture; in the dining room — a table and chairs; in the bedroom — a bed. When selecting furniture, you must find a balance between comfort, beauty, and simplicity. Even though traditional classical elements may appear in the details of furniture design, it must primarily be comfortable. Practical upholstery, comfortable chairs, soft armchairs with back and head support. Remember that the philosophy of modern classic is pleasure. Pleasure is not only to admire but also to live in the environment you create.

3. Windows and Lighting

The key in window decoration is maximum openness. If you have the option to replace frames, choose those with fewer obstructions. Clear, bright glass and white window sills. Minimal decor. Light, airy curtains — perhaps that's all there is.

But modern classic is not as simple as it seems. While it's unpretentious towards natural light, the choice of artificial lighting must be approached with full responsibility. According to recent trends, lighting in an apartment should be multi-level. Ambient light — built-in lights and one bold accent in the form of a magnificent chandelier. The effect should be daring yet elegant. Mid-level — symmetric lamps with large shades on both sides of the sofa, reading lights, picture and cabinet backlighting, traditional wall sconces, and candles on the table. Lower level — floor lamps. Don't forget about dimmers: they allow you to change the mood in a room depending on the time of day or occasion.

4. Patterns and Decor

Your main rule — geometry. If a vase, then square or round. If a pattern, then on the carpet and exclusively proportional and simple. If a collection, then monochromatic and without a pattern. If candles, then tall and long.

When choosing textiles, prefer natural materials and nature-inspired hues. Floral prints belong to traditional classic with its youthful and carefree character. Modern classic does not force you to pay attention to it, yet you can't help but notice it. This is what makes the magical allure of contemporary style. It reveals the natural beauty of things. Creates a unique atmosphere of a real home in the broad sense of the word. It's mature classic, which has outgrown its youthful days, wrapped in ribbons, gilded details, and heavy draperies. It has matured, become wiser, and looks at the world more simply. It is completely universal yet possesses exceptional individuality.