How to Decorate Interior in Neoclassical Style

Modern classic, or neoclassicism, in interior design is a remnant of 19th-century neoclassicism, restrained and respectable. Generally, neoclassicism is a collection of elements from various classical styles. By rejecting all excessive pomp and discomfort, modern classicism retains only the best features of traditional classical interiors. How to decorate your interior in an exquisite and tasteful neoclassical style – we will explore today.

DNA of the Style
When and where it appeared: nowadays as a modern interpretation of 19th-century neoclassicism in Europe
Style foundation: symmetry, beige tones, refined and moderate decor
Famous names: Jean-Louis David, Robert Adam, William Morris

5 Rules for Decorating Interior in Neoclassical Style
1. Open Plan, High Ceilings
Bay windows, arched openings, high ceilings, and abundant free space – such layouts are ideal for modern classicism. It doesn't matter if the apartment is modest in size. Neoclassical interior is flexible and adapts to any square footage, provided one important rule is followed: the smaller the space, the less pomp and decor in the interior. An arrangement with a baroque or empire flair fits well in a spacious house but will ruin a small flat.

2. Finish: Plaster Decor, Ceramic Tile, Quality Materials
In neoclassical style, use decorative plaster or wallpapers for walls and parquet, tiles, or ceramic granite for floors. If you choose tiles, select materials with good imitation of onyx or marble, such as the floor tile JURASSIC. Ideas for layout can be found in Devon & Devon, Sicis, Petracer's: modern classicism is a specialty of these brands.

When choosing parquet, do not limit yourself to the standard layout with boards shifted by a third. The style of modern classicism better suits parquet in the shape of pinecones, rhombuses, and more complex layouts. Pay attention to the design of modular parquet Lab Arte.

This style is inconceivable without plaster decor. Choose wide moldings and ceiling cornices with decorative elements, possibly with steel ampir notes. You can refer to the classic cornice made of polyurethane foam. Incorporate moldings into the interior to frame inserts from accent wallpapers, and cover the main space with background ones. Decorative wall panels also fit perfectly into a neoclassical interior.

3. Furniture from Natural Wood with Moderate Decor
For neoclassical style, choose furniture made of natural wood with carving, forged elements, or cabriole legs. Use console tables, poufs, and buffet tables. Arrange them symmetrically, in multiples of two: classicism is inconceivable without rhythm and repetition. By the way, all items can be found in the product catalog of the Design Center & Interior 'Expobuild on Nakhimovskiy'.

A writing desk of noble form with minimalist decor is indispensable in a neoclassical office. This weightless sofa gains charm from metal inserts at the ends of wooden legs: neoclassicism reveals itself in details. The beige-toned bed has nothing extra, and its classic character is due to symmetrical decor and light carved ornament in the headboard. Simple forms, linen upholstery, oak finishing, and carved legs in this chair are unlikely to become tiresome: longevity is a must-have attribute for neoclassical furniture.

A chandelier made of white Murano glass is complemented by white fabric shades – this elegant lighting fixture deserves to complete the interior in modern classicism. Those who appreciate strict classical forms will definitely appreciate this velvet sofa with armrests. A chair with linen upholstery and stylish pique will harmoniously fit into any neoclassical interior. Smooth back curve, cushion presence, and double-bent cabriole legs of carved oak – nobility of classicism is evident in every detail of this chair. The side walls of the dresser in a cream color are decorated with stylized half-columns, which again highlights its classical design.

An essential element of classicism is the presence of a fireplace and clocks (preferably inherited from a grandmother who was a noblewoman). For neoclassicism, it's acceptable to decorate the house with a fake fireplace or decorative portal. Clocks can be found at flea markets.

Hang tapestries, natural silk or velvet curtains with a hook and voluminous heavy tassels. Add accessories to the interior – candelabras, mirrors in massive symmetrical frames. But remember that neoclassicism does not tolerate excess.

4. Calm Color Palette, Plant Prints
Interior in modern classicism is an ideal option for lovers of beige, milk-white, pale blue, wine, and powder shades, like Marie Antoinette. Add gold, silver, and patina in moderate doses. To avoid a featureless light spot, use furniture, curtains, and textiles with dark outlines around the edges.

Neoclassical interior fits organically with damask (intricate symmetrical plant motifs), 'fly' print, royal lily, and English stripe. If you want to bring a touch of history into the interior, look for it at York Factory. Many classic wallpaper collections of this brand are recreated from historical archives and printed on original XIX century machines.

Be cautious with the meander pattern, which is often used in Greek design products (from ceramic tiles to yogurt), so this pattern has lost its grandeur.

York Factory, Allure Collection
York Factory, Allure Collection
5. Abundance of Light, Crystal Chandeliers, Side Lighting
A chandelier in neoclassical interior is the compositional center, so it's good if it is large and majestic with crystal or Murano glass decor. A decorative socket can be mounted at the base.

Select additional light sources. Side sconces, wall sconces, and floor lamps 'mirror' each other and should be bought in pairs, planning ahead where and how to hang them symmetrically.

On the cover: Design project by Varvara Shabelnikova.

Do you dream of decorating an interior in neoclassical style but don't know where to start? At the Design Center & Interior 'Expobuild on Nakhimovskiy', you can purchase all necessary materials and get a free consultation from a professional designer. Book now!