Dabbieri Blog

Transitioning Traditional Design to Contemporary Design

Have you been looking around your home lately feeling like it's a little out of date? Looking for a refresh to your traditional interior design but don't want to do a complete renovation? Transitioning traditional design to contemporary design is the perfect solution for a fresh yet timeless look that incorporates old with new.

What is Traditional Design?

Traditional interior design is characterized by classic and timeless elements. Think of warm colors, patterns, and ornate detailing. Traditional design will often use antique and vintage furniture or decor to add character and a sense of nostalgia. It's all about creating a comfortable and elegant space that feels familiar and welcoming.

Traditional interior design is characterized by classic and timeless elements that evoke a sense of history and charm. Think of warm colors like rich browns, deep reds, and soft beiges, which create an inviting and cozy atmosphere. Patterns are often used to add visual interest and depth to rooms. Ornate detailing can be seen in the intricate woodwork and moldings that embellish furniture and architectural features.

Traditional design frequently incorporates antique and vintage furniture or decor, which adds character and sophistication to the space. It's all about creating a comfortable and elegant space that feels warm and timeless.

What is Contemporary Design?

Contemporary design, on the other hand, is all about embracing current trends and staying in tune with modern aesthetics. This style includes features such as clean lines, minimalistic decor, and neutral color palettes, which create a sense of calm and order. The emphasis is on functionality and simplicity, steering clear of elaborate decorations, which results in spaces that feel both inviting and sophisticated. Furniture and accessories often have sleek, uncluttered forms, and materials like glass, metal, and natural wood are frequently used to enhance the modern vibe. While traditional design draws inspiration from the past, relying on ornate details and classic motifs, contemporary design looks towards the future, constantly evolving to incorporate the latest in design innovation and trends.

How to Transition Tradition Design to Contemporary

Each design has its own unique appeal, and when you merge the two, it can lead to a distinct and personalized aesthetic that truly reflects your style. Consider the elements you appreciate from each style—maybe it's the clean lines and neutral color palette of contemporary design that give you a sense of calm and simplicity, or perhaps it's the intricate details and rich textures of traditional design that speak to you on a deeper level. Whatever it may be, take these elements and infuse them with your taste to start crafting your mood board. This mood board will serve as a guiding blueprint, a solid foundation for your style transformation journey. If you're not sure where to begin or feel overwhelmed by the options, don't worry—we're here to offer guidance and support every step of the way. Whether it's selecting the perfect color scheme or mixing different textures to create a harmonious look, we'll help you bring your vision to life.

Roller Shades by Graber

Play with Colors

Contemporary design often embraces neutral colors such as white, black, creams, and shades of grey. Start with this palette to establish a clean backdrop, as these hues foster a calming atmosphere typical of modern interiors. Introduce pops of color through accent pieces like artwork, throw blankets, or plants. Patterned area rugs or backsplashes can elevate the space and add personality, blending traditional design elements with a modern flair. To stay on trend, focus on a monochromatic color scheme that aligns seamlessly with contemporary style.

Elevate with Texture

Texture is an excellent way to add dimension to your space, particularly when aiming for a transitional aesthetic that blends traditional and contemporary styles. To create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, consider incorporating a variety of textures such as faux fur, knits, or velvet. Faux fur can add a touch of luxury and warmth, while knits bring a sense of comfort and casual elegance. Velvet, with its rich and lush feel, can introduce an element of sophistication. By thoughtfully mixing and matching different textures, you can achieve a layered look that adds depth, interest, and personality to your environment, making it both visually appealing and tactilely engaging.

Roller Shades by Graber

Mix and Match Traditional Furniture with Contemporary Decor

The key to transitioning traditional design to contemporary is to incorporate modern decor while keeping some traditional elements intact. Start by mixing and matching furniture and decor; for instance, replace an old sofa with a sleek, new leather one or swap outdated curtains for sheer, neutral drapes. Preserve cherished pieces, updating them with modern accents like stylish throw pillows, statement lighting, or a bold area rug. A timeless vintage armchair pairs beautifully with a contemporary coffee table, creating a visually striking and distinctive look. By combining traditional elements with modern accents, you will create a balanced and cohesive space.

Transitioning from traditional to contemporary design offers endless possibilities for creating a home that reflects both elegance and modernity. By blending antique furniture, playing with color, and adding modern accents, you can design a space that is uniquely yours.

 

As you explore the fusion of traditional and contemporary design in your home, which elements of each style resonate most strongly with you?

Dive into Color with the Color Drenching Trend

In a world where neutral color palettes have dominated the interior design landscape for years, a new trend is emerging that embraces the bold personalization of color. Enter color drenching—a trend capturing the attention of design enthusiasts and professionals alike. But what exactly is color drenching, and how can you incorporate it into your home?

What is Color Drenching?

Dual Shades by Graber

Color drenching is an interior design technique in which a single color or multiple shades of a single color are applied extensively throughout a room. This concept goes beyond painting walls; it uses the chosen color palette on everything from ceilings and floors to furniture and accessories. The effect is a cohesive and immersive environment where color becomes an emotional and visual experience.

Why Color Drenching?

• Emotional Impact of Colors: Colors have a profound emotional impact. Blues and greens often evoke calmness and serenity, making them ideal for bedrooms or reading areas. On the other hand, reds and oranges can energize a space, making them suitable for social areas like dining rooms or living rooms.
• Versatility Across Styles: One of the beauties of color drenching is its adaptability. This trend can be tailored to fit your aesthetic preferences, whether aiming for a modern minimalist look or a traditional, opulent vibe. For instance, navy blues can impart a classic, timeless look, while vibrant greens could be perfect for a fresh, contemporary feel.
• Impactful Visual Statement: When done right, color drenching can turn an ordinary room into a spectacular visual treat. It's a perfect way to make a bold statement and showcase your personality.

Chatham by Fabrica

Achieving Color Drenching at Home

Using a single color or its varying shades, you can create a seamless flow within your space, designing a unified aesthetic with a sense of harmony and tranquility. Color drenching allows for personalization. Choose a shade that resonates with you, then extend it across different elements—walls, floors, furniture, and even decor. By focusing on the details, you'll achieve a sophisticated, curated look.

Designer Banded Shades by Hunter Douglas

In smaller rooms, use darker shades to create a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Alternatively, if you want to open up your space, use lighter shades to make it feel airy and expansive.

For larger areas, color drenching can make a vast space feel more intimate and personalized. Consider the natural light—darker hues might need more illumination to avoid feeling oppressive, while lighter shades can capitalize on brightness.

Add texture through different materials to enhance the monochromatic scheme. Think velvet cushions against a matte-painted wall or glossy tiles amidst a matte floor finish. Small pops of contrasting colors, introduced through decor items or accessories, can provide balance and break up any monotony throughout your space.

Scripter in Hero Hexagon by Daltile

Color drenching is more than just a design trend—it celebrates color and its ability to transform spaces. Whether you're an interior designer or a homeowner looking to refresh your space, consider this bold approach to add depth and personality to your home. Ready to immerse yourself in the world of color?

How have you experimented with different palettes, and how has color drenching redefined your living spaces?

 

European Farmhouse Flooring

A Timeless Blend of Elegance and Warmth

The allure of European farmhouse decor lies in its effortless blend of rustic charm and refined elegance. At the heart of this aesthetic is the flooring, which sets the stage for the rest of your home's design elements. Whether you're an interior design enthusiast or simply looking to add some old-world charm to your space, understanding the key features of farmhouse flooring will help you make informed decisions.

Season Wood Winter Spruce

Let's explore our favorite familiar farmhouse flooring trends that can transform your home into a cozy, European-inspired retreat.

Raw Hardwood

Nothing says farmhouse charm quite like authentic hardwood floors. Choose planks that showcase the wood's natural grain and texture, bringing an organic feel to your interiors. Raw wood finishes are particularly popular, offering a rugged yet sophisticated look that complements a variety of decor styles. Pair your hardwood flooring with natural marble countertops and satin brass faucets the kitchen for a truly timeless look.

Herringbone Tile

For a striking first impression, consider herringbone tile flooring in your entryway. This classic pattern adds a touch of elegance and visual interest to any space. Neutral-colored tiles work best to maintain a serene and welcoming atmosphere. Herringbone tiles not only elevate the aesthetic appeal but also serve as a durable and easy-to-maintain option for high-traffic areas.

Black and White Tiles

Memoir in Petal Black by Daltile

For those who love a bit of drama, black and white tiles offer a bold yet timeless option. Perfect for kitchens and bathrooms, these tiles can be arranged in various patterns, from classic checkerboard to intricate geometric designs. Pair them with a porcelain farmhouse sink and old-world artisanal touches for a look that's both contemporary and rooted in history.

Natural Stone Floors

Momento White in Reminiscent by Daltile

Natural stone flooring brings an element of luxury and durability to your home. Options like travertine, slate, and limestone offer unique textures and colors that can enhance the farmhouse aesthetic. Natural stone is especially suitable for kitchens and bathrooms, where its resilience to moisture and wear comes in handy.

Cozy Carpets

Dubai Moss by Fabrica

For areas where comfort is a priority, like bedrooms and living rooms, cozy carpets are an excellent choice. Look for carpets in neutral tones that can blend seamlessly with the rest of your farmhouse decor. Plush textures and natural materials like wool can add an extra layer of warmth and coziness to your space.

Area rugs are another excellent way to add warmth and texture to your farmhouse flooring. Look for options that feature natural fibers like jute, wool, or sisal. These materials not only complement the rustic charm of farmhouse decor but also provide comfort underfoot. 

To achieve a cohesive look, it's essential to marry your flooring choices with other European farmhouse decor elements. Natural marble countertops, vintage wooden beams, wrought iron light fixtures, and traditional hand-crafted details all contribute to the overall aesthetic. By carefully selecting and coordinating these elements, you can create a space that exudes both elegance and warmth.

How have you incorporated farmhouse floors into your home design?