Want to enhance your home with a rich, layered look but don’t know how to define the difference between traditional style and classical styles? As these two design styles have a somewhat similar core design feature, we’re looking for what defines each so that you can bring them home with a well-calculated sense of authority.
When the two styles are compared, the similarities and differences between them are noticeable. A traditional space is characterized by ornate interiors inspired by a 17th or 18th century European country house. The look is often warm and welcoming, and sumptuously luxurious.
These spaces usually present furniture and accessories with curved shapes and a more exquisite design. The traditional style is also recognized for its elegant accessories, ornate woodwork designs, rich tones, heavy drapery, and varied patterns. Making it a perfect route for those looking to inject everyday old-world glamor into their homes, as traditional-style interior design is sure to do just that.
Characteristics of the traditional style
To better compare traditional and classical interior design, here are the most significant characteristics that define the traditional decorating style:
European Influences –
Traditional-style interior design is often inspired by European décor from the 18th and 19th centuries. It is a timeless style that exemplifies comfort and elegance, characterized by antiques and classic works of art. The traditional decorating style prides itself on its accessible and harmonious charm.
Rich, dark colors –
If you like dark wood and rich tones, then the traditional look is perfect for you. These spaces often feature shades of browns, reds, and greens as accent colors. Landscapes, florals, damasks, and plaid are also common in traditional-style interior design.
Stately furniture –
The traditional style is far from minimal and its furniture is no exception. Most traditional homes feature substantial fabrications and luxurious furnishings. You will notice many tufted sofas, claw foot chairs, carved furniture, and furniture inlaid with metallic details.
Elegant furniture –
The traditional style of decoration is the finest of details. You’ll find a space filled with grand gestures, like elegant porcelain cabinets, grand chandeliers, accent pillows, sconces, mirrors, vases, and chandeliers galore. It’s also common for traditional-style interior design to have a flash of metallic bumps on any of its accessories, adding sophistication and drama to any space.
Classical style interior design
A classical style design blends well with contemporary and traditional styles. Traditional spaces are known for their neutral bases of cream, beige and gray. The classical style mixes a combination of classic and modern furniture and finishes.
As the classical style leans more towards contemporary design, the look is less edgy and a bit more relaxed. Textiles, wood tones, and other decorative textures provide depth in these spaces. The color and pattern used for the classical style is more subtle.
If you admire the combination of classic and modern styles on a neutral background, the classical style will work best for you.
Characteristics of the classical style
It can be confusing to differentiate the traditional style from the classical style, but when you know the most significant characteristics of each design, it will be easier to distinguish each aspect with ease. Here are the common characteristics of the classical style:
Combination of classic curves and modern lines –
The classical style interior design is a combination of modern lines and classic curves in a neutral setting. A lack of color shouldn’t be thought about though, as accessories are presented to bring life while keeping the focus on a minimal and neutral palette.
Comfortable furnishings and smooth lines –
The classical design style encompasses smooth lines and comfortable furnishings, however it doesn’t come with a fussy style. The color palette used is somewhat similar to that of contemporary design and is usually kept to a minimum.
Elegant and timeless design motifs –
The classical style boasts an elegant and timeless look that blends the old with the new, and the feminine with the masculine – in a fresh way.
Solids remain inconspicuous –
In a classical space, solids are often featured while patterns are mostly subtle.
Classical and Traditional Interior Designs
To better illustrate the differences between traditional vs. transition, let’s compare its most significant elements.
The classical style often consists of a mix of wood tones in a single space. There may also be detailed grinding work, however it doesn’t necessarily define the overall feel. With traditional-style interior design, these design elements are often softened by adding modern lines, which contrast perfectly with the tones of the wood.
The classical decorating style tends to mix different textures to create depth. In a traditional vs. classical kitchen, the classical-style interior kitchen features wood tones and subtle geometric patterns to create a warm and inviting feel. A traditional style kitchen is cozy too, however the colors and patterns are more varied, creating a more luxurious feel.
Classical-style interior design is often recognized by its neutral background without having to sacrifice color. If a bold shade is used, it is often repeated for consistency. A classic space can be symmetrical, but it can also break this rule. In a traditional space, however, there is usually a mix of patterns and colors. One is bolder and the other remains neutral. Symmetry is key in traditional style interior design.
Although the classical decorating style has its roots in the traditional mindset, it often incorporates modern interior design trends. Its contemporary side allows it to easily infuse other interior decorating trends, such as a modern design light fixture. On the other hand, traditional style spaces will stick with antique and ornate looking furniture and accessories.
Classical kitchens include modern decor. In a traditional kitchen versus classical kitchen, you will notice modern accents in a classical kitchen, such as modern wall decor. However, a traditional kitchen space will feature classic design woodwork and art.
The tone and colors of a traditional space are more intense and saturated, while a classical space consists mainly of neutral colors with a few flashes of soft pastel colors. Additionally, a classical space feels light and airy, while a traditional space exudes a warm and heavy feel.
What style works best for you?
By now, we hope you have a better idea of the differences between traditional and classical design.
Ultimately, the decision to go the traditional vs. classic is a personal choice based on your lifestyle. If you are someone who loves classic and vintage style pieces with reserved appeal, traditional style interior design may be your best option. However, if you want to infuse other interior design trends into a traditional space, choose to create a mix that features modern furniture and accessories, as classical-style interior design is about a creative combination of design styles – whatever your choice is, we, the HCD DREAM Interior Solutions, are here for you, we’ll give you best interior design that will be exactly your taste. Just speak with us.