If you’ve ever been to the Palace of Versailles, you’ll have seen the stunning and extremely intricate furniture that was so popular during the 17th and 18th centuries. While you don’t have to make your space look like King Louis lived there, you can take inspiration from the types of detailed and classic pieces scattered throughout the palace. Traditional homes often feature carved wood, curved lines and anything but plain fixtures. Wingback chairs, tufted sofas and antique-style tables are also common.

Colors are critical in traditional homes — no white spaces here! Instead, opt for colors that will make people want to curl up and stay for hours. Think warm neutrals like beige, cream and taupe complemented by deep hues such as burgundy, navy, forest green and gold. Shades that could be found in French Rococo paintings and Colonial American culture are crucial, helping convey elegant charm. You could even go the extra mile and paint each room a different cohesive color like they did in early 1800s homes.

While linen, cotton and other light fabrics go great in other types of homes, you want to opt for rich materials in your traditional space. Heavy textiles like velvet, silk, brocade and damask are used for upholstery, drapes, and throw pillows, bringing depth and opulence to your rooms. These fabrics often feature intricate patterns, embroidery or jacquard weaves, adding to the sense of grandeur. Layering different textures, such as pairing a plush velvet sofa with silk drapes or brocade cushions, enhances the sophisticated ambiance. Additionally, tasseled trims, fringe and decorative cording are common embellishments that further elevate the luxurious feel of traditional interiors.

Crown molding, wainscoting, coffered ceilings and decorative trims enhance the sophistication of the space. Many modern homes aren’t built with traditional characteristics, so if you have a newer space, you’ll have to add these elements where necessary. However, if you have an older home that came with these beautiful details, consider yourself lucky! If that’s the case, find ways to enhance and highlight these architectural features. Consider painting the wainscoting a different shade than the walls or using wall art to pull people’s attention to the decorative molding along the ceiling. Basically, if you’ve got it, flaunt it — making the most of what your home has to offer. 

In nature-inspired homes that lean toward organic flow, symmetry is nowhere to be found. On the other hand, this style uses symmetry to create a sense of balance that works really well with traditional furniture and decor. Generally, rooms are arranged with a sense of order and harmony, often featuring pairs of furniture and decor elements so everything has a counterpart. This could look like a living room with a couch in the center, flanked by two sets of armchairs and side tables facing each other. 

Symmetrical arrangements also extend to architectural details, such as matching wall sconces, identical built-in bookshelves or evenly spaced moldings that frame the space beautifully. This structured approach fosters a cohesive and polished look, reinforcing the timeless elegance of traditional interiors.

Minimalism isn’t the move when it comes to traditional setups. Instead, crystal chandeliers, ornate mirrors, oil paintings and porcelain vases add a touch of opulence. Decorative moldings, gilded frames and intricate wood carvings further enhance the sense of elegance. Additionally, classic patterns like florals, damask and toile can be incorporated through wallpaper, area rugs, and upholstery to create a tried-and-true look. 

Create a striking focal point by displaying collections of fine china in a glass-front cabinet, arranging antique candlesticks on a mantel or placing a grand clock in the foyer. Also, layering decorative elements — such as a richly patterned area rug beneath a carved wooden coffee table topped with a bronze candelabra — helps to establish a warm and inviting atmosphere while maintaining sophistication.

Traditional homes embrace a mix of materials to master depth and warmth, combining plush textiles with classic architectural elements. For example, rugs, drapery and patterned wallpaper contribute to a rich and cozy environment. A Persian or Oriental rug can anchor a space, adding intricate designs and vibrant colors underfoot, while heavy damask or brocade draperies frame windows elegantly. Layering textures extends to furniture as well — think tufted velvet sofas, woven table mats and silk or embroidered throw pillows. Even small details, like a fringed throw draped over an armchair or a hand-knotted tapestry on the wall, enhance the overall richness of the traditional decor, making the space feel inviting and refined.

The space should feel chic yet inviting, perfect for entertaining or relaxing in style. You can achieve this by having high-quality, comfortable sofas and chairs, soft throw blankets and pillows artfully placed and lots of warm illumination from lamps and other traditional sources like wall lighting and wrought iron chandeliers. Even layering different types of fixtures — such as table lamps with pleated shades, candle-style wall sconces, and a statement chandelier — helps create a cozy, well-lit atmosphere. You can also hang gorgeous pendant lighting and other traditional kitchen fixtures for a cozy, cohesive look throughout every room.

Richly stained wood furniture like a grand dining table or intricately carved dining chairs adds a sense of refinement while maintaining functionality. Decorative accents like fresh floral arrangements in elegant vases, stacks of classic books and plush area rugs further enhance the warmth of the space. Ultimately, the goal is to find a balance between a lived-in look and inviting warmth, ensuring the home feels both polished and comfortable for daily living and special occasions alike.