How to modernize the decor in a traditional home without spending too much!

Modern spaces are trending in 2024. And why not? With less clutter and a zen feel, modern homes can help you relax and love your home. Of course, Modern, streamlined design is probably much easier to find in new homes and metropolitan areas.

But what if your space is decidedly more traditional? If you love the modern design aesthetic but your home is more traditional, you may feel like you’re falling out of line with the trend. Don’t worry, even the most traditional of homes can have a modern twist. By incorporating some of the principles of modern spaces… your home will be completely revamped.

Break the mold with your furniture

We all know that it can be hard to make a separation, especially if you’ve been conditioned to think of your furniture as a game. In fact, with traditional style, you may have even purchased entire rooms of furniture to match and coordinate. But if you look at modern homes, you’ll notice that every single piece of furniture has been carefully selected. to expand the field, but does not have to be part of a matching set.

By breaking up furniture sets, you can help break up the heaviness of a traditional home and add some spice to your space. Want to keep your furniture together? Try reupholstering a piece or two in a graphic fabric or use cushions to vary the color and texture of the set.

In addition, mismatched furniture has an additional bonus: you can track sales of goods, second-hand sales, Clearance shopping and one-time sale for the coolest looks for less.

Leave some space to get a clean look

You probably grew up in a home where “things” were proudly displayed in places of honor, like china in a display case. Whether it was photos and diplomas on the walls or souvenir shelves, the idea of ​​filling a space with stuff is the opposite of modern…

Instead, modern design helps you rethink the spaces in your home. Instead of filling every wall with stuff, leave every shelf or cabinet empty, putting only your favorite things to give your eyes a rest. In addition to the obvious benefits (goodbye daily cleaning powder!), Keeping your home decor to a minimum will keep the space looking neat and tidy.

Highlight architecture and shapes

Modern design often focuses on the architecture of a home as part of the décor. However, since we are not all lucky enough to have original moldings and concrete-style windows, it can be harder to see the architectural appeal of your home. However, even homes that are in the construction phase have certain features that can be highlighted for greater architectural impact.

Use an architect’s eye to find interesting shapes in your home. Do you like your kitchen framed by an interesting ceiling? Use a modern light fixture to draw the eye upwards. Or use a rich color to direct the eye to your favorite corner at the door. You can even use mirrors Make your favorite shapes more effective by reflecting them in your home.

Refine with color

Remember: high contrast, unified palette. The easiest way to turn modern design into a monochromatic story. When you look at your favorite modern spaces, you'll notice that all the rooms have a unified palette as they flow from space to space. Each room may have its own theme or characteristics, but the colors are coordinated throughout the house. This gives the home a modern feel even if the architecture does not look “modern.”

At the same time, high-contrast colors help to give spaces a sense of clarity and cleanliness common in modern design. Forget about soft beige and use black, cream, white, and other dark colors to help give your home more defined edges. You can also add some bold green houseplants to add a pop to a plain white room. You don’t need to fill a modern space with color, but you do need to make sure it has a great visual impact when you do use it.

Light textiles in decoration

Heavy curtains were once the epitome of style, but modern window coverings feel much lighter. In fact, all textiles in modern spaces are usually light and simple. There are those who have completely dispensed with curtains in modern decor! But if you love them and want privacy, it’s better to have them…

Lightweight linen and cotton instead of heavy brocade or florals will help you feel at home. Look at the textiles and fabrics in your home and you’ll see that this is an easy and inexpensive change that makes a big difference. Swap heavy curtains for linen drapes or blinds. Forget cushions and furniture filled with graphic prints and modern pieces that showcase your furniture design. Or ditch your thick wool rug for one made of faux fur or even lightweight seagrass.

The architectural style of your home may be completely traditional, but that doesn’t mean you have to stick to old-school decor. By adopting a more modern mindset, you can think beyond architecture and lean into a simpler, more basic, and bold aesthetic. By decluttering and rethinking your furniture, you can create a space that’s simple, effective, and truly your own.