Modern classic style in interiors, or how to use classic elements in a contemporary setting

The modern classic style is one of those solutions that works best when we need a balance between classic elegance and modern minimalism. It is an excellent solution for people who want to draw on the interior design trends of previous decades, but at the same time avoid exaggeration and a museum-like or palatial character.

Colours play an important role in the modern classic style. The interior is based on neutral shades of white, beige, grey and ecru, which provide the perfect backdrop for more expressive accents in deep navy blue, bottle green or burgundy. Lighter, pastel elements are also popular, as they have a calming effect on the interior and promote relaxation. Any colours other than the base colours usually appear in the form of upholstery, curtains, carpets, textile accessories or individual pieces of furniture. This keeps the rooms subdued but not boring. Light is an important element of the design, both natural light, which is enhanced by large windows, light curtains and shiny surfaces that naturally reflect the sun's rays, and artificial light – it is worth choosing atmospheric lamps in shades of gold, brass or... black! Due to the fact that the modern classic style should not be cold, but rather warm and cosy, warmer light colours are more suitable in this case. Its layering is also key. In addition to the main lighting, it is worth introducing additional mood-setting points, such as picture lighting or delicate light strips under the furniture.

Classic style is often described as synonymous with harmony, and proportions are one of its foundations. Symmetrical furniture arrangement, repetitive lines, and a good balance of accessories – everything matters here. A relaxation area consisting of a sofa, a coffee table and two identical, evenly spaced armchairs, two wall lamps, a decorative panel dividing the wall into two parts – these are examples of solutions that create a sense of order. At the same time, thanks to modern forms, the interior does not lose its lightness. The furniture is simple, the decorations subtle (milled fronts, skirting boards, delicate stucco). These are details that complete the arrangement, but at the same time do not overwhelm.

In the modern classic style, nothing is accidental. Fabrics should have a pleasant texture, such as velour, velvet or wool, to give curtains, sofas, armchairs, chairs and cushions a cosy feel. Furniture in natural wood or white colours will perfectly complement the arrangement. Metal elements should be chosen in shades of gold, brass or black (they are perfect for handles, mirror frames, table legs, chairs or armchairs). Balance is important – gloss should not dominate over a matte finish.

Many modern classic interior designs also feature stone, both natural and its substitutes. The most popular choice is marble (one of the most popular materials in the world, which has been considered a symbol of luxury and elegance for centuries; thanks to the transformation of sedimentary rocks and the process of recrystallisation, marble acquires unique and unrepeatable colours and patterns) and quartz surface and large ceramic slab (Architype materials, which include collections that perfectly imitate natural marble; characterised by very high durability and resistance to mechanical damage, and due to the production process, allowing for repeatability or continuation of the pattern or full adaptation to the needs of a given project). Stone is used, among other things, as a material for floors, wall cladding, kitchen islands, bathroom and kitchen countertops, stairs, window sills, furniture fronts, tables, coffee tables and decorative elements.

Modern classics do not need too many decorations, accessories strongly associated with other styles, bright colours or glitz. Here, less is more, but that ‘less’ must be of excellent quality. Open spaces between zones, well-planned lighting, hidden storage systems, moderation – these are universal tips for anyone who wants a modern classic interior. It is based on calm, harmony, symmetry, timeless forms and high-quality materials – and needs nothing more to impress.

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