When it comes to decor, traditional is comfortable and often predictable. Some may say traditional is outdated, but there's a reason the style is still so popular—it just works. If you like rooms that are warm and welcoming and where everything has its place, here are 14 traditional-style home decor ideas that are still cool.
14 Traditional-Style Home Decor Ideas That are Still Cool
Updated on Dec. 19, 2023
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Color
Traditional-style decor uses some color on walls, but does so conservatively. Choose paint colors in mellow tones such as neutral grays and beiges, along with light yellows, greens and blues. Use bolder colors in accessories.
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Furniture Placement
When it comes to furniture placement, the key here is symmetry and balance. Group furniture in a way that invites conversation, such as a couch facing two chairs. Not all pieces must match, so use some refinished wood chairs with a comfortable leather sofa. Here is your guide to some trendsetting furniture styles.
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Add a Rug
Oriental and Kilim rugs are as popular as ever because they offer some style while also blending into their surroundings. When determining the size of a rug, make sure you can get at least the front legs of the furniture on the rug.
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Soft, Comfortable and Cozy
Traditional decor has a comfortable and cozy feel to it. Furniture has soft edges and big cushions, opposed to the crisp and sleek look of modern designs.
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Wood
Wood furnishings, accents and flooring have always had a place in traditional home decor. Install wood molding in your living room or add a wood handrail to stairs. You can also add a set of refinished wood chairs.
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Add Some Metal
You want some accents to shine when it comes to traditional decor, but not too much. Install a new faucet with a bronze or copper finish, or hang a new light fixture in pewter or another metal with some texture.
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Hang a Chandelier
Chandeliers are a mainstay in traditional dining rooms and can make a home’s entryway more welcoming. If you have a smaller space, many chandeliers now come in smaller sizes and can help make the room appear larger.
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Patterns
Whether it’s stripes or florals, patterns are still a go-to in traditional home decor ideas. Try stripes on an accent wall or hang some wallpaper in a powder room in an up-to-date pattern or floral design.
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Window Treatments
The key when it comes to choosing window treatments is to avoid having them match your furniture fabric. Try some light curtains, roman shades or hang some bamboo blinds. Avoid any heavy curtains, along with tiebacks and thick valances because they make a room look dated.
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Flooring
Hardwood flooring in rich maple, cherry or mahogany is still a staple of traditional decor. Install some new hardwood flooring or refinish old floors.
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Add Artwork
Bare walls have no place in traditional decor, so hang some artwork at eye level. Group similar sized items in a gallery wall and don’t be afraid to include black and white photos or even some modern art pieces, which all have a place in today’s traditional homes.
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Plants
When it comes to adding plants, think simple. Stick with plants that don’t overwhelm the room—try a small terrarium or a spider plant which can improve your home’s indoor air quality.
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Focus on the Mantel
Make the mantel the focal point of your living room and add some of your favorite pieces. For easy traditional decoration, add a simple vase of flowers, some candles or hang a heavy mirror above the mantel.
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Molding and Trim
Crisp whites are still the go-to when it comes to traditional painted molding and trim. Add some crown molding to make a statement and give trim a fresh coat of paint to make it pop against the wall color.
