The Classic Interiors: Elegance at Its Best

Also known as Classicism, classic interior design first came into existence during the 17^th-19^th centuries. It manifested in many different aspects including music, art, literature, and architecture.

If you want to use a classic style in your home, then you’d have to know how to go about with noble decoration, geometric shapes, and utilitarian frills if any.

History of Classicism

Classicism is believed to have originated in France during the 17^th century. It then quickly spread through Europe and became the dominant design for a span of two centuries. The artists then were so inspired by the Greek and Roman art which both showed clarity, rigor, yet at the same time, a different kind of simplicity.

Classicism has strict rules but it still managed to influence other nations throughout the globe. When the style found its way to England, it became a representation of rationalism as well as precision. When Catherine the Great ruled, Classicism began to conquer even the land of Russia. The style then was still dignified, full of harmony but also practiced reasonable restraint.

In Russia, architectural structures such as the one in Petersburg showed the exact taste of the nobles of the Russian empire.

Russian Classicism was a trend of its own with its unique architecture during the 18^th and 19^th centuries proving to the world just how different their style was. This movement allowed the birth of eclecticism, too, which mixed different classic styles during that time.

Photos of classical interiors show the extreme orderliness, respectability, solidity, and predictability of this style. This design just proves that it is totally independent of other fashion trends.

Classic Style Is Subdued

Classic houses are attractive because of their subdued color palette and their royal dignity. Light pastels are commonly seen. You won’t see any bright hues as the shades are all neutral and calm. The overall classical interior actually even has a soothing effect.

Colors that are permitted include cream, olive, beige, shades of gold, and light green. These are fairly common in the furniture, finishing materials, and textiles. Shades of brown (especially the natural and warm wood color) are highly permissible. When using wood tones, though, make sure that you don’t make the room look gloomy. For the textiles and upholstery, use sand, blue-green, and blue hues.

You will recognize classic interior design also when you find discreet columns, cornices, and clear-outlined doors and windows. You will also typically find marble fireplaces with the paired furnishings in rectangular form. The presence of stucco, arches, columns and full columns is also apparent.

The rooms come with niches that are decorated with ancient statues. Talk of Greek gods such as Athena or Zeus himself. The ornaments are just as classical, one can typically find laurel or oak leaves.

These days, classic homes are often owned by the wealthiest people who are confident with their style preference. They are also people who prefer the age-old look that no other style can offer. They are the ones who want the type of style that lingers.

Classic homes also do not sport anything cheap. All the materials that are used are unique and natural and, therefore, pricey. Pilasters are made of marble as are the columns. The stucco is handmade which is totally different from the classic imitations that are practically seen everywhere.

The classical ceiling is often white and decorated with stucco friezes.

As for the classic lighting, you should illuminate the rooms with no less than crystal chandeliers. Be sure to install these strictly at the center of the ceiling. This is so the light is evenly distributed throughout the room.

Display lamps that are made of expensive glass or transparent stones.

Tags: classic interior design, classic interiors, classic style, classicism, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings

This entry was posted on Tuesday, May 22nd, 2018 at 8:15 am and is filed under Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.