Is Modern Traditional Design actually a thing and can it be affordable? I have been asking myself that question for a while. In the interior design world Traditional design evokes memories of grandma’s house with heavy dark carved wood legs on tables, sheer swag draperies over windows and carved architectural moldings around a fireplace. But has that definition changed in this new decade? Is there a new ‘traditionalism’ twenty years into this new century for Interior Designers like me? In this blog post, I want to focus on new modern traditional design in design trends for 2020.
When I think of modern traditional design I instantly think of designer Barclay Butera. Butera is a world famous interior designer with his roots in the fashion world. Much of his inspiration and designs are based on styles found fine clothes tailoring. Butera uses a lot of Navy Blue color is his designs and I do not think it is a coincidence that Navy Blue is the Pantone color of the year for 2020 which – I wrote about here. Not many of us can call Butera for a design consultation but I have many affordable interior design options.
Photo via barclaybutera.com
Let’s look at the Hampton Designer Showhouse in Bridgehaven designed by Butera’s design firm. The natural sisal rug, the shells in the chandelier and the green topiary plants are all conventional shapes and accents. Repeating patterns are also fundamental in many of his rooms which are a long established design principal. The horizontal lines in the lamps and in the draperies of the above room are subtle and traditional. Even the wallpaper is not a new and creative design but using it in this space in a blue small pattern renews the space. When describing this room I use the word traditional with an understanding that it is updated and fresh.
photo via barclaybutera.com
A second room I would like to review is this living room in Snowmass. At first glance one would never think that this was designed by Butera and his firm. This condominium screams mid-century with the stunning black fireplace facade, teal arm chairs and gold abstract pendant lights. This ability to jump into a different design lane is a great quality in any interior designer. Mid-century design is very trendy in 2020 and it was first introduced 70 years ago – it is not a new design style. But in 2020 I would classify this room and a Modern Traditional design in Chapel Hill, NC.
Photo via barclaybutera.com
Lastly, I want to discuss this dining room in Laguna Beach designed by Butera. Again we see Butera’s signature Navy Blue however the dining arm chairs are covered with a handsome blue and white graphic floral fabric. The design harkens to an older style but enlarging the design refashions it for 2020. Even the dining side chairs are updated with oversize nail head details that upgrade the traditional design and bring some excitement into the space. Check out the farmhouse shiplap ceiling molding mixed with the champagne colored glass pendant light which creates an appealing contrast. I also like the lighter wood floor finish and modern abstract art mixed with the very traditional farmhouse pedestal table.
If you would like to explore affordable interior design and new Modern and Traditional design give me a call.
Julie
First Impressions by Julie Wagner
Chapel Hill, NC
https://www.impressionsbyjulie.com/
https://g.page/firstimpressionsbyjulie?share
https://www.yelp.com/biz/first-impressions-by-julie-wagner-chapel-hill-3
