Why Should I Choose Classic Interior Design Style?

In this remodel, Anne Grice Interiors worked with the natural granite wall, incorporating a sealed sandstone countertop and soft leathers and plush fabrics for that mountain coziness. | Photo by Gibeon Photography

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Home décor articles are chock full of current trends and predictions of what’s coming next. It’s easy to get caught up in trying to keep up with the latest and the best. One sure way to hop off the home decor merry-go-round is to invest in classic design.

What is classic design?

Classic interior design has many distinct features. It is generally neutral in tone—predominately beiges and warm grays— and if colors are incorporated, they are usually ones that can be found in nature, such as muted greens, blues and browns. Tone-on-tone is preferred over multi-colored.

This entry says “Classic Mountain Design” with its stone walls, quartzite tile and wood floors, and leather and steel accents. Rug by Tufenkian Artisan Carpets. | Photo by Derek Skalko

In classic design, high-quality materials are preferred over acrylic or other synthetic materials, and an emphasis is placed on softer, low-sheen textures, such as woven textiles and matte paint finishes. Patterns created in tile, stone and fabric are generally monochromatic in order to draw more attention to the grain, fibers or material. 

Finally, classic design utilizes clean and simple lines over intricate or complex details and is generally practical and comfortable in terms of seating, heights of tables and adjacencies.

Adding a wood feature wall and quarry stone fireplace wall gives this room a classic and warm feel. Electric swivel chairs by Mimi London. | Photo by Gibeon Photography

Why choose classic design for your home?

Classic interior design can be a terrific choice, particularly in a mountain setting. First of all, classic design lasts—it can sometimes take a year or two, or longer, to put together a home with an interior designer and even longer on your own. It is also a major investment. Given this, it’s in your best interest to choose something with longevity.

The stained alder cabinetry, sandstone countertops and skyline marble backsplash in a chevron pattern keep this home in a classic style while mixing in some muted yellows and blues. | Photo by Derek Skalko

Since classic design features colors that are neutral and muted, the choices eliminate the need to update or change furnishings frequently. In addition, classic design is centered around comfort and practicality, featuring fabrics and leathers that feel soft and cozy that are built to last and furniture that is appropriately matched for optimal function. Choosing classic elements for your design not only produces fabulous results aesthetically, but in the long run, it is a more sustainable option.   

Classic design is defined by a few important characteristics—quality materials, not trendy, neutral color palette and integrated so that everything works together. 

How to achieve a classic design look in your home 

The main bath has a soft neutral palette, incorporating a traditional painted cabinet, Calacatta Borghini marble floors and a single gray-toned hex concrete wall tile. | Photo by Derek Salko.

Achieving a classic look is simple and straightforward. Start with a concept based on your home’s architecture or nature surrounding your home. Use natural materials—wood, stone, plaster and steel are good options—and furniture of the finest quality you can afford Keep the finishes soft—honed countertops, satinwood flooring, wood ceilings and matte walls—and keep it neutral.

Anne Grice is the Principal and Owner of Anne Grice Interiors, an interior architecture and design firm based in Aspen, Colorado. View their profile or contact Anne at 970-429-4148.

Content for this article provided by Anne Grice Interiors.