When it comes time to choose the interior design of your home, you may find yourself overwhelmed by the many décor choices available! However, all those options can fall under two categories, which make your life much easier. Once you realise exactly whether you want a more classic or modern design, you can then make decisions based on your choice – which considerably narrows down the field.
First, you need to know exactly what a classic and a modern design mean:
The Rise of Modern Classic Style
Blurring the lines between traditional and contemporary, the Modern Classic style has emerged as a popular choice for those seeking the best of both worlds. This trend marries the timeless elegance of classic interiors—think rich materials like wood and marble—with the clean lines and simplicity of modern design. Modern Classic interiors often feature neutral tones, subtle patterns, and a mix of antique and modern furniture, creating spaces that are both sophisticated and comfortable. If you’re torn between the two styles, this hybrid approach could be the perfect solution.
How to Create a Classic Style
A timeless design doesn’t happen by chance. When thinking about having a traditional look, you need to focus on the right materials. Plastic has no part in a classic interior design, as materials tend to be woods, fabrics, stone tiles and even leather.
You may also want to add decorative elements to your spaces; mouldings, carpets and crystal chandeliers, for example, make a great addition to a timeless design. if you opt for art pieces, be it in the form of paintings or sculptures, you need to choose the ones that speak of a different era. Modern art is best suited for contemporary designs, so opt for the classics!
When it comes to colours and patterns, you can’t go wrong with rich tones and floral textures such as Farrow & Ball wallpaper designs, so they should be part of both the design and the furniture.
Sustainable Design Choices
Modern homeowners are increasingly prioritising sustainability, and both classic and modern styles can embrace eco-friendly principles. For classic interiors, consider reclaimed wood and vintage furniture that bring timeless charm while reducing waste. In modern spaces, energy-efficient appliances, recycled materials, and sustainable fabrics align beautifully with the clean, minimalist aesthetic.
How to Create a Modern Style
Clean lines and simplicity are key in a modern design. This means that you need to keep it simple, usually with a neutral colour palette or geometric shapes. A modern home, contrary to what you may think, can be warm and inviting, instead of cold.
Often, a modern interior design means minimal artwork, as things need to be kept as uncluttered as possible – functionality is also important, so each piece of furniture or decoration should have a purpose. The bottom line of modern designs, therefore, is that they should allow ample workroom and space for your needs.
When it comes to materials, although woods are often found in classic interior designs, this doesn’t mean it’s not used in contemporary designs as well. In fact, you can use natural wood flooring to create a clean look, no matter space. And while plastic shouldn’t be part of a classic design, it certainly plays a very important role in modern interior designs, as plastic furniture or decorations are often found in modern homes.
Technology Integration
Smart home technology now plays a key role in interior design. For modern homes, this often means turning technology into a feature—such as a sleek TV integrated into the wall or smart lighting that enhances geometric designs. In classic interiors, technology is more discreet, with hidden speaker systems or custom cabinetry that conceals appliances while maintaining the room’s elegance.
Biophilic Design Elements
Incorporating nature into your home has become a cornerstone of modern interior design. Biophilic elements, such as indoor plants, natural materials, and large windows to maximise natural light, enhance both classic and modern interiors. A classic room might feature a large wooden dining table paired with floral arrangements, while a modern space might use greenery to contrast sleek lines and monochrome palettes.
Colour Trends for 2025
For classic interiors, expect to see a resurgence of warm neutrals like taupe, terracotta, and muted golds, which add depth and timelessness to a space. Farrow & Ball’s range of rich, heritage colours remains a popular choice for achieving that sophisticated look. Earthy tones like deep blues and greens are also making their mark, offering a contemporary twist to traditional design.
In modern interiors, bold accent colours are coming to the forefront, such as vibrant oranges, purples, and yellows, paired with monochromatic schemes for balance. These hues inject personality into sleek, minimalist spaces, keeping them visually dynamic without losing their clean aesthetic. By experimenting with these palettes, you can update your space while staying true to your chosen style.
So Which Style is Better?
It depends on what you prefer! Each style is different so, in the end, it comes down to your personal choice. A classic design is not avant-garde or trend-following, as it needs to withstand the test of time. Classic is typically associated with sophistication and timelessness, so if you prefer this style, then you need to make decisions that meet its requirements.
A modern design, on the other hand, can be trendy and minimalist, with all technologies, such as TVs or DVD players, plain in sight. Letting the light shine through and making sure each room is airy are also essential elements of a modern design.
For those who can’t commit to just one style, eclectic design offers a creative solution. Pair a vintage chandelier with minimalist furniture or combine modern art with classic mouldings for a look that feels uniquely yours. Mixing styles allows for personalisation and flexibility, creating a space that evolves with you over time.
Start Your Design Journey Today
At Rockform we can cater to every taste and requirements, so please don’t hesitate to contact us to learn more about how we can help you create the home of your dreams!
