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Neoclassical Design Gets Modern Twists
Luxurious yet restrained, opulent yet relaxed, this elegant style is experiencing a Renaissance in contemporary homes
Born out of the classical forms of ancient times, neoclassical style had elegant lines that offered a restrained alternative to the flowery opulence of rococo in the late 1700s. It's a favorite again today. Replicating the look involves gilded mirrors, ornate chandeliers and gold leaf frames, with antique sculpted accessories scattered throughout. The color palette is restrained: white, cream, beige and metallic. It favors luxurious fabrics that are not overly fussy: silk damask, brocades, linens and vintage needlepoint tapestry.
Typical contemporary twists on this historic style include upholstered furniture with washed wood detailing, black and gold tables and oversize antiqued mirrors. The aesthetic mixes opulence with relaxed style, for an overall laid-back charm that's nice to look at and easy to live in.
Typical contemporary twists on this historic style include upholstered furniture with washed wood detailing, black and gold tables and oversize antiqued mirrors. The aesthetic mixes opulence with relaxed style, for an overall laid-back charm that's nice to look at and easy to live in.
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This white slipper bed with nailhead detailing is perfectly classic and provides a blank canvas for the pops of gold to stand out. Empty gold leaf frames are layered behind framed drawings. The gold and white color combination is a modern twist on Parisian sensibilities.
by Dana Wolter
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This is a slightly unlikely combination: a chunky driftwood table paired with an aged metallic mirror. It has an old-meets-new design that, when paired with the bust, framed print and oversize pillar candle, is classical with a twist.
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There are several neoclassical staples worth noting in this dining room. The heavy drapery complete with fringe in a golden raw silk fabric casually hangs from a simply brass rod. The over-the-top crystal chandelier is ornate and double tiered. And the color combination, a mix of golden yellow and sea foam blue, is a classic choice.
Find traditional chandeliers
Find traditional chandeliers
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The high ceilings and arched doorway are classically Romanesque. The oversize mirror that mimics the shape of the window adjacent to it is oh so dramatic. All this is topped off by beige and white tailored upholstery and a beautiful ornate chandelier.
| This is a case of modern furniture put in the context of a room that has the bones of a neoclassical aesthetic, including crown molding, columns and a crystal chandelier. This is a great example of the mixability of the ancient aesthetic with today's furnishings. |
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| The chaise is typically French and antique. This particular piece is upholstered in a vintage velvet and set in a cream and beige dressing room. The elegant color palette is topped off by the simple bay windows and subtle cupboards. |
Symmetrical décor is a staple of neoclassical design. Here, it's done to perfection. There are the gorgeous gold sconces that flank the large gold-framed oil painting, the white ceramic pieces on the mantel that are perfectly matched and the two identical armchairs that flank the fireplace. Not to mention the gorgeous vaulted walls and crown molding, which add to the symmetry, giving the space a sense of formality.
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This vignette has many elements that can be classified as neoclassical: gold leaf frames, Staffordshire pottery, marble accessories (including the lamp) and silver candlesticks. It's a great example of how pretty this look can be.
More:
So Your Style Is: Traditional
Parisian Hotel Flair
Coco Chanel Style
More:
So Your Style Is: Traditional
Parisian Hotel Flair
Coco Chanel Style
Ideabook published on March 10, 2012.
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