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Classic sitting room designs


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(Image credit: Georgia Zikas Designs/John Lewis & Partners/Sofas & Stuff)

Traditional living room ideas bring with them a charm and sophistication that is guaranteed to offer a warm welcome to both your family and visiting friends. Your living room is the space in which you unwind and as such the design should be centered around the principles of comfort and relaxation. 

When it comes to designing your living room ideas, there’s plenty to think about, from wall colors and flooring types to that all important living room suite and window treatments as well as those vital finishing touches.

‘Traditional design in a living room is all about creating and telling a story in the colors, textures and pieces that you choose. It is not trendy nor of the moment, rather, will stand the test of time and always make the home feel elegant and sophisticated. Focus on rich elements like area rugs, antique furniture or unique wallcoverings to bring your space to life,’ says Ana Rovai, designer at Perlmutter Freiwald .

Traditional living room ideas

Traditional living room ideas are one of the easiest looks to achieve. Start by viewing  your space as a bare room, highlight any architectural elements that make your living room unique. This could be a large bay-window, coving and ceiling roses or traditional fireplaces. These elements will help you ground your design. From there, let traditional decorating ideas guide your design, select classic furniture shapes and styles, antiques are always a good choice for traditional living room ideas but there are also lots of newer pieces which are based on historic designs. Pair this with antique and classical decor to complete the look.

‘When designing a traditional living room incorporating antiques is a great way to stay true to the design style while still creating a space that feels fresh and unique,' says Megan Dufresne, Principal Designer at MC Design . 'A key feature of traditional style is intertwining historical pieces with newer pieces to create a beautiful balance of old and new. The use of antiques in the decor connects the room to the time period while the newer pieces add a modern edge.'

1. Create a timeless living room with classic furniture

(Image credit: Georgia Zikas Designs)

Any style of home can channel traditional decorating ideas in your living room, after all this timeless look offers a pared back sophistication that works in a wide range of spaces. Opt for classic shaped furniture and natural materials, paired with accent antiques or vintage pieces to set the tone. 

‘However, traditional does not mean dated or boring! On the contrary, there is nothing more exciting than to modernize traditional design elements to adapt and work with the way we live today, while still giving an overall sense of timeless elegance to a living room,' says Georgia Zikas, founder of Georgia Zikas Design . 'This can be as simple an idea as beautifully rich fabrics for your arm chairs, to incorporating family heirlooms and furniture that have been passed down over generations. Creating this layered look adds character and substance to a room.'

2. Add sliding barn doors to offer flexibility

(Image credit: Cortney Bishop Designs/Katie Charlotte Photography)

Open-plan living room ideas are very of the moment, creating an informal welcoming heart to your home. While it is perfect for entertaining, sometimes you want your traditional living room ideas to feel cozy and intimate. Adding sliding barn doors to your open-plan living room offers the best of both worlds. When open, these sliding doors create a seamless link between the living room and kitchen/dining areas. However, when you’re looking to create an intimate space for cozy night’s in, you can close the doors and create a sanctuary. 

Opting for sliding doors rather than traditional swing doors has minimalist impact, paint in a soothing shade to create a feature and give your traditional living room ideas a country-style edge.

There are plenty of different broken plan living room ideas that can provide versatility to your traditional living room ideas, from internal glazing and panels through to screens and drapes.

(Image credit: Perlmutter & Freiwald)

Use the architectural features in your space to define your traditional living room ideas. If you have large windows, consider leaving them undressed to maximize the light that floods into the space. Natural light is your best-friend in living room styling, making everything seem brighter and more welcoming. If your living room is a darker space, consider adding mirrors and other ways for how to increase natural light to help elevate your space.

If you’re lucky enough to have a vaulted ceiling or original beams, leave these unpainted to add texture and character, great for living room ceiling ideas.

4. Opt for colored walls to add warmth to your traditional living room ideas

(Image credit: John Lewis & Partners)

Traditional living room ideas do not have to be devoid of color. While white walls set a minimalist backdrop for your traditional scheme, consider experimenting with colored walls. A plaster-pink wall color makes the space feel instantly warmer while offering a pretty backdrop to wall art and decor. Pair pink living room ideas with rattan accessories and velvet upholstery in a mustard shade to channel a more boho feel. Original wooden floors and a period fireplace complete the traditional living room ideas.

(Image credit: Sofas & Stuff)

Your sofa is the key piece of furniture in your living room and as such it should define the tone of the space. While there are plenty of living room sofa ideas from which to choose, for traditional living room ideas, opt for a classic sofa shape. ‘The rounded arms of a roll arm sofa are a hallmark of traditional style, but the choice of color and fabric can elevate this living room staple. I use color and texture to ensure the sofa makes a statement but doesn't overpower the space,’ says Megan Dufresne.

Buying a new sofa or armchair is one of the most important furniture purchases you will make for your home. There are endless possibilities for the design and fabric choice, but perhaps most importantly, you need to focus on comfort, as every seat feels different. ‘Don’t order a sofa online without seeing it in person. While you might take the risk with an occasional-use armchair, your primary seating must feel just right. Try out as many different options as you can, and work out whether you prefer an upright or more relaxed sit, firm or soft cushions, and the levels of support you require,’ recommends Period Living editor Melanie Griffiths.

7. Combine traditional prints with modern colors for a contemporary edge

(Image credit: Bobbi Beck)

Floral room decor comes hand in hand with traditional living room ideas but that doesn’t mean it has to be dated and kitsch. A heritage print in a bold modern shade is sure to give your traditional living room ideas a contemporary flair.  

‘Wallpaper is almost a must for a traditional living room scheme and traditional patterns are a great way to hint to a particular era. If you’re looking to balance the look with some modernity then a traditional pattern in a modern color is a great way to do that,’ says James Mellan-Matulewicz, creative director at Bobbi Beck .

8. Choose striped upholstery for a timeless feel

(Image credit: Future / Emma Lee / Sally Denning)

Whether chic, wide stripes or rustic french ticking linens, striped fabrics are a brilliant choice when it comes to both upholstery and window treatments in traditional living room ideas. Inoffensive and easy to live with, they will stand the test of time and come in all manor of weaves, weights and colors to match your scheme. 

If you feel apprehensive about decorating with stripes, the key is to avoid too many patterns in the space. Start by introducing a small striped accessory, such as a vase, a piece of artwork or even a rug, then you can build up to upholstery and window-dressings. If opting for multiple different stripes in a scheme, keep to a similar color palette but add texture by incorporating stripes in different directions and sizes.

9. Use lighting to create accents and spotlight key features

(Image credit: Future.Brent Darby)

Accent lighting is a technique used to highlight focal points and add interest. Placing a picture light above a favorite piece of artwork elevates its status in the room and draws the eye. To achieve this in your traditional living room ideas, prioritise symmetry. Here, a picture light is flanked by symmetrical table lamps and wall sconces, which provide a practical element without compromising the look of the space.

10. Select a colorscheme inspired by the natural world

(Image credit: Colefax & Fowler)

Green is a great choice for traditional living room ideas. When paired with white it brings a spring-like feel to the space which will feel bright and airy even on the grayest days. This green Stratford sofa from Kingcome  is dressed in a fresh yet understand pastel green which beautiful complements the botanical prints on the footstool and panelled cabinetry.

'Based on traditional Edwardian designs, the Stratford sofa perfectly embodies timeless and luxurious living. With its generous deep seat, low arms and sprung back, this sumptuously comfortable sofa is perfectly suited to traditional interiors as well as town houses and cottages,' says Frank Phipps, design director at Kingcome Sofas.

11. Layer neutral colors for a traditional living room scheme

(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti)

Wall color is one of the key decisions to make when deciding on which traditional living room ideas to incorporate into your own space. As the as the backdrop to your scheme, wall color will have a huge impact on the look and feel of the space. For a classic, calming scheme but one that still has interest, consider using a mix of neutral shades suggests Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene .

‘Timeless living room schemes are all about creating an elegant, calming space using soft natural colors such as stone based hues and neutrals,’ she says. ‘Remember "neutral" does not mean bland and the use of stone colors is not about a return to beige, greige or even magnolia, it’s about adding warming, natural shades to create subtle schemes with a sense of longevity and timelessness.’ 

If you want to add a statement to your neutral scheme, consider incorporating wall mural ideas or living room feature wall ideas for an eye-catching injection of color and pattern.

12. Hang curtains in archive fabric prints

(Image credit: Warner House)

There are all sorts of window treatment ideas that can look great as part of your traditional living room ideas. However, nothing says traditional style like classic floor to ceiling drapes. From Edwardian chintz to designs inspired by 18th century palampores (bed covers) from India's Coromandel Coast, Warner House has a rich archive of velvets, weaves and embroideries to inject luxurious pattern and history into your living space. Director, Lee Clarke, explains why he loves prints from the past and why scale is important.

'Traditional homes are often roomy, with high ceilings and large windows. This is why scale is important. Choose large scale patterns to get the proportion right and don’t be afraid to match the same pattern on the walls and the curtains,' he says.

'At Warner House, we carry many old, traditional patterns that have been given a twist with the use of more contemporary colors. I am not a fan of replicating the original decorative style of the home, I feel it can look a little forced and may not suit how we live today,' Lee continues. 

'What I much prefer is decoration which pays respect to the past, but lives for today; bold chintz, large scale florals, toile de jouy all work well in period homes, they can work equally well with both traditional and contemporary furniture or indeed a mix of the two!'

13. Decorate with chinoiserie for an opulent feel

(Image credit: Warner House)

A Western style that seeks to emulate the art and design of China, Japan and other Asian countries, chinoiserie has been bringing an air of luxury to interiors ever since it emerged in the mid 18th century. Chinoiserie is a great choice for traditional living room ideas, bringing heritage charm as well as pattern and color to the scheme.

Sourced from an early 20th-century printed linen sample, this Yentai Stone paper from Warner House, depicts a chinoiserie scene of urns and floral arrangements, and is available in a co-ordinating printed linen – perfect for creating co-ordinating window treatments.

14. Furnish with antique pieces

(Image credit: Future / Kasia Fiszer)

Finely crafted using traditional methods and boasting a quality of manufacture inimitable by many modern designs, antique furniture makes a great choice for furnishing for traditional living room ideas. 

Whether it's a pair of exquisite Georgian Chippendale chairs or a weathered French cabinet with chippy paint found at a flea market, furniture with age brings personality and character to a space often unattainable with modern pieces. 

Provided they are well cared for antique sofas such as these Howard designs, with their elegant silhouettes and loose sink-in feather filled cushions, will ensure timeless elegance and comfort for years to come.  

15. Opt for versatile seating options

(Image credit: Jojo Bradley Interior Design)

For many, the living room is a place to gather with family and friends, so its important to factor in plenty of seating options into your design. As well as sofas and armchairs, consider adding in upholstered pouffes and footstools into your traditional living room ideas as these can be easily moved in and out of the space and think about using a window area to create a cozy window seat. 

16. Mix and match fabrics to add texture

(Image credit: Colefax & Fowler)

Capturing the enduring beauty of nature, florals are a brilliant choice for upholstery for traditional living room ideas. They also work brilliantly when layered with other prints explains Daniel Slowik, associate design director at Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler . 

'The trick with florals is understanding how to work with them in terms of pattern, color, texture and scale to create a timeless scheme, without them appearing old fashioned,' he says. 'Combining the patterns with neutral or plain color tones and adding colorful block-printed cushions and rugs always works well. 

'There is nothing wrong with a bit of a clash but it's worth noting that while the most surprising colors can work well together you have to play around a bit with the designs themselves to achieve a harmony of pattern. The perfect combination will unify a scheme and can give it a timeless quality but it's always important to remember the process is organic.

'Plain floorboards in a light color or white keeps the room looking fresh as does stone and natural flooring. Play up the freshness of the designs by combining with contemporary ceramics and baskets.'

17. Invest in quality pieces you love

(Image credit: Birdie Fortescue)

To give spaces a timeless feel for years to come it's a good idea to invest in quality pieces you love says Birdie Fortescue , designer and founder of the eponymous interiors brand. 

'Build up and invest carefully in a collection of furniture, whether antique or contemporary, that you love and will stand the test of time. This, in addition to your favorite art, will create the bones of a room from which you can layer with color, pattern and texture,' says the designer. 

Decorating spaces in neutral colors and limiting color and print to cushions which can easily be updated is another great way to keep spaces feeling calm but fresh. 

'Refresh your cushions each season as this will immediately give a room a new look and lease of light,' says Birdie.

18. Create a focus with a characterful fireplace

(Image credit: Future / Kasia Fiszer)

Whether it's a snug stone inglenook surmounted by historic beam or a grand, carved marble surround, the fireplace is often the main feature of a living room and, creating warmth and a homely feel, is the place people naturally congregate. 

If you're lucky enough to have an original fireplace be sure to preserve it and make it the focus of your scheme, alternatively, if you don't, consider fitting a reclaimed fireplace for a traditional feel and fitting it with a wood-burning stove. There are plenty of traditional fireplace ideas that would create a stunning centerpiece in your traditional living room ideas.

19. Add a feature rug to bring color to your living room

(Image credit: Future / Michael Sinclair)

Choosing a pared-back palette will ensure your living room scheme stands the test of time, so, rather than a feature wall that you may tire of, why not inject color and pattern through the addition of a beautiful rug? For similar designs to this blue oriental style pictured try Oka .

20. Fit floor to ceiling book shelves

(Image credit: Future / David Lovati)

Whether they're used to store books or display cherished collectables, bespoke built-in shelves will give your traditional living room ideas valuable storage space. Living room bookshelf ideas will also help make your space feel homely and lived in which is what traditional spaces are all about. If your ceilings are tall, they're a brilliant way to make spaces feel more cozy.  

How do you make a living room look traditional?

You can make a living room look traditional by incorporating classically designed furniture and pairing it with antique or vintage decor and design elements. ‘To create a timeless scheme, consider the architectural period of your home as well as the atmosphere you wish to create; often the most enduring design schemes are those that are a natural fit for the style of property,’advises Ruth Mottershead, Little Greene 's creative director. 

What is a traditional living room style?

A traditional living room style is one that is timeless. Painted in neutral colors with characterful furnishing and soft textiles, your traditional living room ideas should exude warmth and comfort. 

'I think the main key in designing a more traditional living room is the use of color, pattern and elegant shapes. Traditional living room ideas can be a fun way to make an elegant statement. One starting point is a patterned rug with possibly scroll-like details or even an antique hand knotted piece. I then look to coordinate items from the rug to more detailed, dramatic lines and images in the furniture, lighting, accessories and even wallpaper,'  recommends Amy Youngblood of Amy Youngblood Interiors . 'Finally don’t forget about artwork which really finishes off the space. More traditional subjects such as landscapes or still lifes with fussy frames are a go to or for more of an ecclectic look contemporary paintings with coordinating colors look great too!’

Pippa is Content Editor on Homes & Gardens online contributing to Period Living and Country Homes & Interiors print issues. A graduate of Art History and formerly Style Editor at Period Living, she is passionate about architecture, creating decorating content, interior styling and writing about craft and historic homes. She enjoys searching out beautiful images and the latest trends to share with the Homes & Gardens audience. A keen gardener, when she’s not writing you’ll find her growing flowers on her village allotment for styling projects.

15 Traditional Living Rooms for Inspiration

The Spruce / Michelle Becker

Traditional style has stood the test of time for one simple reason—comfort. Elegant shapes, refined textiles, and a charmingly predictable sense of order make traditional style one that is always warm and welcoming. While decorating trends may change, traditional living rooms will always be in style.

Take a look at these awe-worthy traditional living rooms that will inspire your next remodel!

The New Traditional Decorating Style

Classic style living room (68 photos): interior design

The modern world lives in conditions of insanely fast pace. Changeable fashion does not lag behind the general rhythm, dictating its own requirements. In a wide variety of trendy modern styles, the classic style stands apart - refined and harmonious. The design of the living room in a classic style will not only create a cozy atmosphere, but also emphasize the excellent taste and wealth of its owners. nine0005

Classic Style Features

It is worth noting that the classic style is a general concept that combines a number of different trends. Under it, as a rule, they understand: antique style, historical European styles of the 17th-19th centuries (classicism, empire, baroque and rococo), national European traditional styles, as well as modern interiors designed in accordance with generally accepted traditional canons.

Today, the classic style is often carried out with the latest developments in design. In addition, in one interior, designed in the classics, you can find echoes of several traditional styles at once. nine0005

Be that as it may, a classic interior will always be distinguished by harmony, symmetry, solemnity, quality of finishing materials, textiles and accessories.

Therefore, to design a living room in a classic style, it is enough to follow the basic recommendations:

Symmetry. The temperament of the style is expressed in the symmetrical arrangement of architectural forms and groups, as well as the severity of lines and clear geometry. Most often, it is in a classic interior that you can draw one or more conditional lines dividing the space into equal parts, and get sides that will mirror each other. Symmetry is of paramount importance for the ancient direction and classicism. nine0005

Fine and chic. The centuries of the existence of the current defined it as a style characteristic of the interior decoration of the homes of wealthy people. This is not surprising, because in the old days only wealthy people could afford to take care not only of having a roof over their heads, but also of the aesthetics of their own monastery. It is noteworthy that the abundance of pompous decorative elements is more characteristic of baroque and rococo, while classicism can be characterized by modesty and asceticism. nine0005

Natural materials. Materials such as wood, stone, metal, high-quality natural fabrics are suitable for finishing, furnishing and decorating. Of course, today the market offers a large number of synthetic analogues of natural materials, however, it is the listed options for the latter that refer to the authentic version of the direction, and will be able to recreate the sophistication inherent in the classical style.

Lighting. It's no secret that until the beginning of the last century, electric light sources were extremely weak, so one chandelier in the living room was not able to cope with its key task. In such a situation, alternative light sources on walls, fireplaces and tables came to the rescue. Thus, to complete the classic interior, you should take care of additional lighting in the room. nine0005

Colors

The choice is made, and your choice fell on the classic design of the living room. Now you need to decide on the color scheme. A soft and calm color palette looks most natural in a classic interior, but there are also exceptions. Since color sets the tone for the entire design project, it is important to responsibly select the right color solution.

Classic white living room

The noble white color is perfect for the classic design of a small room, giving the space lightness and spaciousness. At the same time, a single-color white design may not evoke the most pleasant associations with hospital rest. Therefore, in order to avoid such risks, dilute white with warm tones, for example, brown and beige. nine0005

Beige living room in classic style

Restrained and soft beige color fits perfectly into the context of discreet sophistication of a classic interior. Like white, beige visually expands the space and makes the room light and spacious, while adding a cozy feeling to the room. When designing a living room in beige, combine different textures so that the space does not merge into a single “spot”. Shades of beige look good with gold and pastel tones of blue, yellow, olive, pink and lilac. nine0005

Lilac living room in classic style

Pretty cute and sophisticated look in the interior design of the living room in a classic style and pastel shades of purple - lilac, lavender, lilac. The current palette looks the best with gilded elements.

Classic gray living room

It is not very common to find gray in classic interiors, but in a traditional version, gray looks especially impressive. When decorating the hall, this color can be used as the main one when decorating walls or floors. Elegant grays go well with cool tones, but warm tones can also be added to give the living room a cozy atmosphere. nine0005

Brown living room in classic style

Designers and colorists call brown a conservative color, so it is one of the closest to the classic style. Its shades calm the nervous system, causing a person to associate with reliability, safety and stability. Brown can be called basic, because it perfectly sets off other colors, and in general it is combined with almost the entire color palette.

Classic blue living room

Cold blue has a calming and refreshing effect on a person. Its shades will fit well into living rooms with windows facing east and south, otherwise a small and poorly lit space may seem even more cold and alien.

Blue should be used in doses, as separate accents, although there are times when some of its shades are perfect for wall or ceiling decoration.

Finishes and materials for the living room

To create a classic interior, special attention should be paid to the decoration of walls, floor and ceiling. As already mentioned, in this case, the quality and naturalness of the materials play a separate role. Nevertheless, if you do not have the opportunity to purchase exclusively natural materials, you can stock up on their high-quality synthetic counterparts and start repairing.

Floor

Mosaic parquet with geometric or floral patterns is considered a smart choice for flooring. To fix the finished result, use a glossy varnish after laying the parquet. nine0005

It is possible to use wood flooring and laminate, in which case you can additionally decorate the floor with a beautiful carpet. The most successful option for flooring is marble, this noble stone completes the classic interior in the best possible way.

Walls

Classical interior involves two main ways of wall decoration:

- The first option involves decorating with decorative painting, fabric, wallpaper with an elegant pattern. The walls in this case look solemn and luxurious, but they should attract attention primarily through quality and texture, and not the brightness of color. nine0005

- On the other hand, the walls can be plain, in pastel colors. Here, for decoration, you can use stucco, decorative plaster, columns and semi-columns, which will give the space the spirit of the aristocracy of the palace chambers.

It is also worth noting that a cozy fireplace will be an excellent characteristic addition to the classic interior of the living room.

Ceiling

When decorating the ceiling, it is appropriate to use painting, plain or gilded stucco, friezes that can turn an ordinary ceiling into a skillful work of design creativity. nine0005

Classic living room furniture

When designing a living room in the style of noble classics, the selection of furniture deserves special attention. They can be massive or sophisticated, but always graceful. As in the case of decoration, furniture made of precious woods, including those with decorative metal elements, looks organic for classics; such furniture will emphasize the elegance and high cost of the entire design. The best choice for upholstery is cotton, silk or satin in restrained tones with a small, non-flashy pattern. nine0005

If there is a lot of space, it would be appropriate to add beautiful tables as stands for lamps, an artsy coffee table, and a bookcase to the hall.

Also, do not forget that when arranging furniture, you should adhere to the principle of symmetry.

Decor and textiles

Classic, unlike many other styles, requires the obligatory presence of expensive decor items in the interior.

Without high-quality and sophisticated figurines, candlesticks, mirrors, chandeliers and paintings, there is no authentic classical movement. At the same time, decorative elements should be very seasoned and traditional. nine0005

Porcelain, gilding, bronze, marble, antiques, sculptures, mirrors, portraits and landscapes with intricate frames create a wonderful impression. Naturally, using all of the above options at once will not suit your interior at all, it can turn out to be tasteless and philistine. Therefore, try to correctly select accessories for your classic living room so that the room emphasizes the dignity and taste of its owners.

As for textiles, as with furniture upholstery, curtains, carpets and cushions made from expensive natural fabrics should be used. The color scheme of textiles should be combined with the overall idea of ​​\u200b\u200bthe color scheme. The carpet can be plain, but it is better if discreet traditional ornaments are applied to it. nine0005

Small classic living room

It often happens that homeowners in multi-apartment buildings do not have enough space to realize all their design ideas. But if you use a few recommendations, and this problem will not become an obstacle for you:

1. If you are the owner of a small room, give preference to light colors when finishing the floor, walls, ceiling, as well as when choosing textiles and furniture. Monochrome light design can be diluted with a few rich, but not too flashy color accents. nine0005

2. Furniture should be selected in small sizes, otherwise bulky and stately furniture will create a feeling of cluttered space. Also, do not use a large number of pieces of furniture, leave only the most necessary, and it is better to refrain from numerous armchairs and pouffes, voluminous bookcases.

3. Finishing a small living room in a classic style should be elegant and restrained. If you decide to make a beautiful finish using columns, stucco, murals, try not to overdo it, but on the contrary, rely on one or a couple of decoration elements. nine0005

Design of a living room in a classic style - photo

Elegant and beautiful classic is delightful not only in theory but also in life. You can make sure of this and get more beautiful ideas for decorating a living room in a classic style thanks to our selection of photos. Enjoy watching!

Video: Classic Living Rooms - Interior Ideas

nine0000 from A to Z. 120 photos with comments and advice from professionals

Authors of the project: Vladimir Petrov, Viktor Ivanov.

What are the classic styles, what are they like today, how to organize the living room space, what furniture and finishes to choose, color options, classic interior today - in our article everything you need to know about the interior of a living room in a classic style.

1. Why classic style is the best interior solution. Three reasons


I A sense of security

The relevance of a classic lies in its nature. In our changeable and unstable world, periodically shaken by economic crises and natural disasters, modern man strives to create an island of stability and security at home.

The classic interior radiates coziness and warmth like no other. This is a cozy, comfortable space filled with handmade items and tactilely pleasant textures.

Living room in a country house in the Leningrad region. Project authors: Vladislav Podgorelov, Ekaterina Svetozarova, Elena Morozova.


II Success in life

There are those who, like hundreds of centuries ago, are tempted by the idea of ​​demonstrating their social status and success in life. The interior in classic style is a real work of art. Here you can not do without natural materials, stucco (preferably with gilding), crystal chandeliers, classic-style furniture, modular parquet, antiques and good painting. nine0133

Living room in a private house in Baku. Project author: Balbek Shalimov.


III Harmony in everything

Be that as it may, regardless of what goals and desires are pursued, the secret of a classic interior is that it is, first of all, a space built according to the laws of harmony, according to the laws of classical proportions, which are based on - symmetry, scale, the rule of the "golden section". It is their human eye that reads as calm, stable, not annoying. In such a space, a person feels comfortable and happy. nine0133

Design: Francesco Molon


2. Living room in a pre-revolutionary building or in a modern house: which is better? Pros and cons

Apartment in an old house . An ideal option when the apartment is located in an old house or mansion. Many houses in the historical center are, if not architectural monuments, then examples of classical architecture. An interior in the spirit of a bygone era will be an organic solution here. nine0005

Pros :

Cons :

Apartment in the tenement house of the merchants Eliseevs, St. Petersburg. Project author: Irina Ostrovskaya.

nine0004 Apartment on the embankment of the Griboyedov Canal, St. Petersburg. Project authors: Olga Ivanova and Stanislav Klyuev.

Apartment on the Kryukov Canal, St. Petersburg. Project author: Alexey Begak.

Apartment in Bryusov lane, Moscow. Project author: Olga Sokolova.

Apartment on the street. Petrovka, Moscow. Project author: Oleg Toshchev.

Mansion of the 19th century in the center of Nizhny Novgorod. Project author: Vladimir Petrov, Viktor Ivanov. nine0005

Even if the native elements of decor have not been preserved, it will not be difficult to reproduce the classic setting.

Designers and architects advise in this case to study the style of that time that needs to be recreated, turn to the archives or even look into the neighboring entrance. There must have been a fireplace, elements of stucco decoration, wrought-iron stair railing or flooring, which can serve as prototypes or a source of inspiration for creating an interior in a classic style. nine0133

Apartment in the former apartment building of A. Kolchak, St. Petersburg. Project author: Maria Sharapova.

Living room in a reconstructed 18th century Italian villa. Project authors: Nina Prudnikova, Philip and Pyotr Yushins.


Apartment in a modern residential building. Classic interiors are most often found here. Modern layout, the presence of panoramic windows (not typical for the classics) and not even high enough ceilings are not a contraindication. A classic atmosphere can be created through styling, design and decorating techniques. nine0005

Pros :

Cons :

Author of the project: Marina Filippova.

Country house . The classic interior feels very good outside the city, in the spacious free space of a private house. It can be both a modern stone building and a wooden house. nine0133

Project author: Nikolai Tsupikov


3.

Classic style living room interior design

Classic style or just classic is a broad concept. It includes many styles born in different eras and in different (mostly) European countries. Each of them has its own features and characteristics.

England . The country of foggy Albion gave the world the Tudor style, the style of Queen Anne, the style of Macintosh, Sheraton, Chippendale ... But only professionals, historians and art historians know about them. nine0005

In the minds of most people, the English style is an adapted version of the interior style that developed during the reign of Queen Victoria - the Victorian style. This style is characterized by dense saturated colors, wood trim, floral prints, chinoiserie elements.

Classic Victorian living room.

Modern variations of the Victorian style are still popular today. The abundance of wooden surfaces, leather armchairs, calm chocolate-beige colors create a feeling of a strict, respectable space out of time. Not without reason, owners of large businesses, officials and successful businessmen very often decorate offices in this style. nine0133

English style living room interior. Project authors: Natalia Polyakova and Kirill Parmon.

Living room in the spirit of a classic English interior. Project author: Anna Bystrova.


France . The French style is associated primarily with luxurious palaces and kings, after whom several styles are named: the style of Napoleon III, the style of Louis Philippe, the style of Louis XV, Louis XVI.

However, the pinnacle of interior design is Versailles, the residence of Louis XIV. His magnificent, richly decorated decoration haunted his contemporaries (all European monarchs, without exception, were equal to the king "Sun"). And today, the palace style excites the minds of the modern elite. nine0133

French style living room interior. Project author: Kirill Istomin.

Living room interior in the spirit of an Italian palazzo. Project author: Ekaterina Shebunina.

Living room in a country house in the Moscow region. Project author: Nadezhda Chernigova.


Empire style is another imperial style with French roots. With accession to the throne, Emperor Napoleon decided to glorify his reign with the help of a new, ceremonial and majestic style. Empire develops the traditions of French neoclassicism. nine0005

It is characterized by magnificence, spectacle, as well as military symbols: winged goddesses, swords, laurel wreaths, torches. Preference is given to mahogany. The main decoration of furniture (tables, chests of drawers, cabinets, chairs, armchairs) are symmetrical bronze linings.

Nowadays, creating an interior in the Empire style is not so easy. Empire style furniture, typical accessories are hard to find. Most likely you will have to look in antique shops or make it to order. And the best solution is to turn to professionals. nine0133

Empire style living room. Project author: Yulia Nesterova.

Living room in Russian Empire style. Project author: Valeria Vorobey.

Empire style living room. Project author: Tatyana Shcherbakova.

Living room in the style of the old Petersburg interior. Project author: Elena Skutova.

Living room in the spirit of an Italian palazzo. Private country house in the Moscow region. Project author: Inna Khlebtsevich. nine0005

Provence. The French style is not only interiors in a grand spirit, but also the Provence style, so beloved by many, with its pastoral, cozy rustic, romantic atmosphere.

Living room interior in Provence style. Project author: Oksana Turchak.

Living room interior in Provence style. Project author: Elena Tarasyuk (Rumyantseva).


However, for the sake of justice, it should be noted that in the historically established style in the Provence region it is very different from what is understood as it in our country. There is not an ounce of floral ornaments, white painted furniture, French lightness and airiness in it. nine0005

Authentic Provence is notable for brutal and rude forms, and in a nutshell, this is a stone village! With small windows, rough masonry and ascetic furniture.

Provence style is just our legend of Provence, a fabulously transformed fairy tale of French charm and elegance. The French will be very surprised if you ask them about the Provence style - in the country of Voltaire they have never heard of it.

Characteristic rural house in Provence

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Gothic. The following style is not specific to a geographic region. Gothic or early Renaissance - a style that subjugated Europe in the early Middle Ages. At one time, Gothic replaced the Romanesque style and became the first pan-European trend in art in general.

With her appearance marked the departure from massive gloomy and bulky architectural structures to thinner, weightless and skyward structures. visual image buildings of that era changed dramatically: architectural forms began to express the idea of ​​ascension, the aspiration of the soul to heaven, up. In a modern interior this the style is difficult to perform, as it requires special skill. But still there are daredevils and dreamers! nine0133

View of the living room from the second floor balcony. Country house in the suburbs. Project authors: Anna Kulikova, Pavel Mironov.

Fragment of a living room in a country house in Moscow region. Project authors: Anna Kulikova, Pavel Mironov.


Art Nouveau in England and Russia, Art Nouveau in Germany, Secession in Austria, Liberty in Italy, Art Nouveau in France. Each country has developed its own features of a style that existed for a short period of time, but went down in history with its inimitable, plastic artistic language. If you undertake to reproduce it, then you will have to do everything from top to bottom - modern does not tolerate any other style next to it. nine0005

By the way, there are very few factories left in the world that produce furniture in this style. One of them is the Italian manufacturer Medea.

Art Nouveau living room. Project authors: Evgeny Gibshman, Petr Bragovsky, Vladimir Semenov, Svetlana Sergeeva, Vladimir Davydov, Yulia Shevtsova

Art Nouveau living room. Author of the project: Karen Balyan.

Living room interior in Art Nouveau style. Project author: Marina Dyachkova.

nine0004 Living room in Art Nouveau style. Project authors: Oleg Carlson, Pavel Orinyansky.

Living room interior inspired by Art Nouveau. Project author: Anna Nasonova.


Art Deco is the last of the great classic styles. The style of stars, jazz and skyscrapers left a huge mark. Under him, rectangular shapes, geometric patterns and exotic materials first came into fashion: ivory, ebony, coconut, mother-of-pearl, bamboo, shagreen leather, shark, stingray, crocodile, eel, even lizard skins. It was a new word in the concept of luxury. nine0133

Project author: Natalia Babievskaya.

Project author: Nadezhda Chernigova.


Art Deco is on the wave of popularity today. This is due to the fact that Art Deco is the perfect compromise for those who want to live in a status, respectable space, but are not ready for the traditional classics. Even if you do not have huge spaces, a convincing version of Art Deco can be created in the interior of a small apartments. The color scheme may differ, the main thing is not to forget about the characteristic ornaments, expensive woods (preferably exotic), stone, and "artistic" accessories. nine0133

Project author: Maria Gubina.

Authors of the project: Anna Sakharova, Alisa Lobanova, Alexander Yudin.

Project author: Alena Chashkina.

Project author: Ekaterina Mamaeva.


American classic is one of the most beloved and widespread styles of our time. This is a calm, noble and sophisticated interior, not alien to scope and showiness. It is always cozy upholstered furniture, subtle nuanced color combinations, exquisite accessories and decor. nine0133

Project author: Tatyana Mironova.

Authors of the project: Irina Mavrodieva, Artur Goga.

Project author: Alina Lavrenchenko.


The calm and relaxed atmosphere of American classics looks harmonious even in a wooden house.

4. How modern realities affect the organization of living room space in a classic style


Combining functional areas.

The organization of space in a classic interior has undergone changes these days. The combination of the living room-dining room-kitchen into one large room has become the norm. In past centuries it was unimaginable. The kitchen was located as far as possible from the living quarters, while the dining room and living room were independent premises.

With the development of cities and the construction of small apartments, small rooms visually ate up space. The way out of the situation was the combined living room-dining room-kitchen. nine0133

Project author: Ekaterina Shebunina.


The kitchens and dining room in this country house are located in separate rooms. But due to the wide open portals, they are visually connected with the living room, they are part of one large space.

The living room is combined not only with the kitchen and dining room. It could be another room. For example, if one person lives in an apartment, then a living area for the convenience of the owner can be organized for work - for example, an office. nine0133

Apartment on the Kryukov Canal, St. Petersburg. Project author: Alexey Begak.


For small apartments, combining functional areas is a great way to create a feeling of large space.

Author of the project: Lyubov Klyueva.

Project author: Olga Boyko.


Solid boiserie finishes and built-in wardrobes throughout the living room make the dining and kitchen areas less of an issue. nine0133

Authors of the project: Kirill Kochetov, Ilya Shulgin.


A cozy dining area can be equipped near the panoramic window.

Project author: Natalya Konovalova.

Project author: Irena Barene.


Zoning


5. Color scheme


Living room in a classic style in light colors

Such a space always looks light, elegant and airy, and given our climate and the frequent lack of sun, even humane. nine0133

The light colors of the living room can be diluted with color accents - bright blue, turquoise tones.

Author of the project: Aleksandra Klyamuris.


Built-in furniture and free-standing objects (showcases, consoles) made of dark wood make a bright living room visually festive and elegant.

Author of the project: Tatyana Mironova.


The living room in light sand tones is beautifully set off by the upholstered furniture in gray. nine0133

Project author: Tatyana Kononova.


Antiques and old paintings look picturesque in the bright living room.

Project author: Daria Romas.


A contrasting color accent can be added to a bright living room. This will make the space more solemn and elegant.

Project author: Anzhelika Kozintseva.

Project author: Ksenia Maltseva.

nine0004 Project author: Irina Linetskaya.


Contrasting black and white is a bold solution for a classic living room interior.

Authors of the project: Liya Samsonova and Alena Semyonova.


Gold and white shades are a classic combination.

Author of the project: Tatyana Boronina.

Project author: Daria Romas.


Bright space visually brought together by a bright carpet with floral ornaments. A thing that can "make" the interior. nine0133

Project author: Tatyana Tsivileva.


And this bright baroque living room just glows, sparkles. Interior "made" golden color.

Author of the project: Igor Gremitsky.


Color in the living room interior


Classical style is characterized by color, so there are many variations of color combinations.

  • Grey, black shades

The interior of a living room in a classic style is always stylish, graphic, noble. nine0133

Project author: Vera Gerasimova.


Gray is a versatile color in neoclassical interiors.

Author of the project: Maxim Rymar.

Project author: Marina Dyakova.

Authors of the project: Dmitry Kulish, Anna Karpova, Anton Semikin.


Dark shades create an atmosphere of coziness and comfort.

Project author: Igor Serov.

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  • Green shades

The light green walls in the living room create a light fresh sound in the interior.

Authors of the project: Elena Tokmacheva, Kathy Ryzhova, Peteris Lauchka-Lovchko, Ekaterina Vislova.


Green + brown is a traditional color combination for a classic interior.

Project author: Zhanna Kochurova.


  • Red shades

If you want your living room to look like an old Italian villa, paint the walls in terracotta.

Project authors: Nina Prudnikova, Philip Yushin, Pyotr Yushin.


The perfect solution to cover the walls with checkered fabric wallpaper. Very English.

Author of the project: Nadezhda Chernigova.


A modern salmon shade looks surprisingly organic in a classic interior. nine0133

Project author: Andrey Saprykin.


Cowberry red and golden tones are a traditional color combination.

Author of the project: Alexander Kratovich.


But the purple living room invigorates and energizes.

Author of the project: Alexander Kratovich.


6. What finishing materials and design elements are traditionally used in the interior of a living room in a classic style


Classics of the genre - natural materials :

  • wood (preferably solid wood)
  • stone (marble, onyx)
  • gypsum (gypsum stucco)
  • textiles (upholstery of upholstered furniture, curtains, curtains, pillows)

Boiserie made of natural wood look expensive, respectable and create the feeling of a country house in the interior of the living room.

Project author: Leonid Zaitsev.


Wooden parquet in the form of a Sheremetyevsky rhombus creates an optical effect on the floor.

Artistic modular parquet will decorate any living room in a classic style.

Marble flooring is a practical and at the same time effective solution in the design of the living room. However, with the development of technology, artificial materials have appeared today, which in some cases can replace natural ones. In particular, porcelain stoneware, artfully masking marble, is much more practical than natural stone. nine0133

Authors of the project: Dmitry Velichkin, Nikolay Golovanov.


Stucco decor, columns are invariable attributes of the living room interior in a classic style.

Natural gypsum coffered ceiling is a traditional technique for classic interiors.

Author of the project: Anna Korotkova.


A practical solution is a wooden coffered ceiling.

Author of the project: Olga Surkova.

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Italian palazzo-style ceiling with frescoes and wooden beams as decoration.

Stained-glass windows are not only a beautiful decorative element, but also a way to bring natural light into the living room interior.

Authors of the project: Valery Chirkov, Alexander Vanskovich, Sergey Gurov.


A fireplace is an invariable attribute of a proper classic interior.

Author of the project: Balbek Shalimov.

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The fireplace can be used as an expressive color accent in the interior.

Project author: Yakov Voloshin.


Textiles in the interior of the living room is one of the important decorative aspects of the design.

Textile design needs a lot of attention. Curtains in the living room create a solemn and cozy mood.

Wall-paper and curtains with a similar ornament can be used to decorate the window area in an interesting way.

7. Furniture for the living room in a classic style


It is a traditional set: soft group, coffee and coffee tables, consoles and chests of drawers. A modern touch is a place for a TV and built-in furniture (closed cabinets, open showcases and shelves) with the function of a storage system. A particularly irreplaceable story in a small apartment where there is not much storage space.

Authors of the project: Anton and Marina Fruktov.


In the center of the composition of the living room there is always a sofa group, an armchair and a coffee table. nine0133

Project author: Varvara Shabelnikova.


Wooden console, vases, candlesticks and prints - a beautiful setting in the interior of the living room.

A wardrobe with open shelves visually lines up the living area and serves as a central element of the space.

Author of the project: Yulia Poteykovich.


If the walls are colored, it is better to use upholstered furniture in light, neutral colors.

Project author: Tatyana Boranenkova. nine0005

If the living room is spacious, then it must be visually divided into several functional areas using different groups of furniture.

Authors of the project: Anna Kulikova, Pavel Mironov.


If the room has large panoramic windows, it is better not to clutter them up with furniture. The maximum that can be done is to put small chairs that do not block the view.

Project author: Olga Kushnareva-Leone.

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Furniture for the interior of the living room must be chosen according to the scale of the space. Too small a sofa or pouffe will be lost in a large room. Conversely, objects that are too large will make a small room look even smaller.

Authors of the project: Daria Misyura, Dmitry Karpenok.


Vintage items will look very expressive in the living room.

8.

Modern trends in the interior of the living room in a classic style

Today, classic style is undergoing a renaissance. Interiors designed in the same style are almost a thing of the past. Rules the ball "eclecticism", a mixture of everything and everyone.

Classics in our time - a living organism, continuous development and the search for something unexpected. We live in that unique time when it is possible and necessary to create our own, unique living environment.

Modern classic is sensitive to all changes in life. Do you want something bright, spectacular? Add paintings by contemporary artists or trendy designer furniture and the interior will sparkle with new colors. nine0133

Project author: Varvara Zelenetskaya.


Sofa in rich lemon color refreshes a neutral classic interior. Another active color spot is a painting by a contemporary artist. Against their background, a classic chest of drawers in the “boule” technique and delicate plaster moldings effectively contrast.

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