Traditional Design Is Back!
After two decades of Midcentury modern dominating the design universe, traditional is reemerging as a fresh and time-honored aesthetic. While design styles always go through cycles, the advantage of traditional is that it’s a classic. It is often the jumping off point for many other styles, so it blends easily when you are working towards a personally curated look.
Throughout history people are drawn to the familiar for security during uncertain times. That may be partly responsible for the current resurgence, but there is also a new generation being exposed for the first time to these very livable interiors. Many homeowners were not in the audience to appreciate the classic rooms of Mario Buatta or Sister Parish. Either way, this design movement is a refreshing way to incorporate planet-friendly elements with vintage and repurposed furnishings. This is the look that will be known as the New-Traditional or Neo-Traditional for the next decade and beyond. Sourcing favorites like 1st Dibs can provide unique character for these rooms.
But, just as today’s high waisted jeans are drastically different from 80’s Mom jeans, traditional design has evolved. We are keeping the comfort and pleasing shapes while lifting the mood with lighter treatments of color, pattern and material.
Elements of the New Traditional or Neo-Traditional Style
Traditional style is timeless and pulls inspiration from the 18th and 19th century. 
Architectural details like crown molding, ceiling beams and wood paneling add a determined but comforting mood when applied with a light touch.
Often traditional style will reference European decor in its detailings. Featured here is one of our favorite homes showing traditional design with a French attitude. Formality can be taken up a notch or calmed down by the choice of furnishings. 
Rooms will often have a beautiful focal point like a stunning fireplace seen above, or even a mantel range hood as show in the kitchen below.
Neo-traditional is certainly not fussy. In order to keep elements in check there will be a dash of modern with the European viewpoint. Finely finished pieces can easily co-exist with natural and relaxed materials like linen, bamboo and rush. 
Beyond all visual combinations, the essence is comfort and easy living.
While the details may be finely crafted, the home will always respond to lifestyle demands.
