Modern Traditional Design: The Perfect Blend for Australian Homes

Finding the right balance between classic elegance and contemporary flair is often a tall order in interior design. Yet, Modern Traditional Design masterfully bridges this gap, creating spaces that are both timeless and of the moment. This design philosophy particularly resonates in the heart of Australian homes, marrying functionality with beauty and giving rise to what we affectionately call "relaxed traditional."

What is Modern Traditional Design?

Modern Traditional Design is an interior design style that harmonises the ornately detailed features of traditional designs with the clean, simple lines of contemporary design. This approach combines the old with the new, such as pairing the warmth of wood with sleek metal finishes or setting vintage-inspired lighting fixtures against minimalist furniture.

At its core, Modern Traditional Design works with the house's overall architecture, ensuring a seamless flow between fixtures, accessories, and furniture while complementing more permanent features like framing, windows, and facades.

Working with the Home

The hallmark of Modern Traditional Design is its versatility. This style enhances a home's character without imposing a strict aesthetic, blending practicality and luxury. This might mean combining a traditional clawfoot bathtub with modern, streamlined cabinetry or updating classic shaker cabinets with contemporary hardware in bathrooms and kitchens. The balance is crucial, ensuring elements complement rather than overwhelm, to elevate the overall design.

The Australian "Relaxed Traditional"

The Australian interpretation of Modern Traditional Design introduces a sense of ease and accessibility. "Relaxed traditional" caters to the laid-back lifestyle Australians cherish, integrating stylish, functional, and comfortable elements to create inviting and unpretentious spaces. This style reflects the Australian ethos of homes as havens for genuine connection and relaxation.

 

Australian kitchens and bathrooms often feature natural materials like stone and timber, nodding to the outdoor lifestyle, alongside sleek, modern appliances and fixtures. Colour palettes draw from the Australian landscape, with earthy tones and soft neutrals set against bold accents for a contemporary edge.

Bringing it to Life

To achieve the Modern Traditional look in your bathroom or kitchen, start with timeless pieces that tell a story, such as antique mirrors or vintage chairs. Balance these with modern elements that offer a fresh, streamlined feel, like frameless glass showers or cutting-edge appliances. Playing with elements is key, like choosing traditionally shaped taps but in a modern finish such a brushed nickel or gun metal.

Mix textures and patterns thoughtfully to add depth without clutter, incorporating tiles, wallpapers, and fabrics that blend old-world charm with contemporary chic. Personal touches, like a curated selection of art, books, or heirlooms, infuse the space with personality and history.

A Beautiful Aesthetic

Modern Traditional Design, with its Australian "relaxed traditional" twist, provides a compelling blueprint for creating aesthetically pleasing spaces deeply connected to daily life. This approach ensures kitchens and bathrooms are functional and places of beauty and warmth. As Australian homes continue to embrace this old-meets-new blend, the result is timeless, personal interiors that reflect the vibrant spirit of their inhabitants.

 

At arthaus Bathroom & Kitchen, we celebrate Modern Traditional design, a favourite among Brisbane's diverse home styles, from historic Queenslanders to modern coastal homes. This aesthetic allows us to honour Queensland's unique charm. Click here to schedule a 1:1 appointment, and let us help you discover your perfect style, too.