If you’ve landed on this blog post, you may be wondering what makes “modern traditional” different from “traditional” design. Isn’t all traditional design, modern, if executed in the current era? Well yes, and no. What I’ve observed is that modern traditional design is a bit more bold than your traditional traditionalist and incorporates new prints and patterns, plays with color in unexpected ways, and while modern traditional interiors relish antiques from the past, they aren’t afraid to add in an acrylic console table or a piece of abstract art on their grasscloth wallpapered living room. In this post, you’ll find 10 modern traditional interiors that we’re loving and will help you inspire your next space.
The following images were created with AI in Midjourney! We love using Midjourney for inspiration and invite you to learn more about (how to create with Midjourney here.)
Modern Traditional Kitchen Breakfast Nook
I love the inviting mix of colors and textures in this modern traditional interior. The soft blue tones of the couch and armchairs create a calming vibe, while the natural wood accents, like the wooden pedestal table and light fixture, bring warmth. The patterned shades add a touch of personality and whimsy to the space.
Modern Traditional Bathroom
I love the soft neutral palette in this bathroom, I actually rendered this as inspiration for our homes primary master bath! The beige cabinetry complements the white marble countertops, creating a serene atmosphere. I like how the striped wallpaper adds subtle visual interest without overwhelming the space. The painted trim matches the cabinets and really helps you draw your eye around the room.
Modern Traditional Bedroom
The soft pastels in this bedroom set the perfect tone for relaxation. The sage-green walls are soothing, and the light wood trim around the windows gives a warm contrast while maintaining a historic Craftsman interior feel. I like how the floral-patterned curtains add a touch of elegance, and the area rug brings in a hint of playful color without being overpowering. Even the art, abstract landscape, makes the room feel fresh and modern.
Modern Traditional Bedroom
I love the soft, earthy tones in this modern traditional bedroom. The light green walls create a calming ambiance, while the plaid accents in the bedspread and curtains add a charming touch- it’s masculine and feminine all at the same time. The abstract art piece above the headboard brings a hint of freshness into the room. The wooden furniture and fresh flowers on the nightstand contribute to the warm, inviting atmosphere.
Modern Traditional Boys Room
I love the cozy feel of this modern traditional bedroom. The natural wood bed frame and wicker chair add a touch of warmth, while the soft beige tones keep things light and airy. Built-in bookcases showcasing a mix of books and decorative pieces gives the room a personal touch. The simple textures and neutral color palette create a comfortable, inviting space for plenty of boyish play time.
Modern Traditional Dining Room
The understated elegance in this modern traditional dining room is something to gush over. The soft gray-blue tones of the china cabinet pair beautifully with the warm wood accents of the dining table and chairs. The large windows let in plenty of natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere. The subtle patterns on the curtains and the classic dishware in the cabinet add a touch of sophistication without overwhelming the space. It’s a masterclass in creating a dynamic space by the use of texture.
Modern Traditional Girls Bedroom
I love the whimsical charm in this bedroom. The combination of light blue and soft pink creates a playful yet soothing atmosphere. The striped canopy and matching curtains tie the room together and keep it youthful and girly. The pink patterned armchair with its striped pillow adds a cozy spot to sit, and the framed animal illustrations give the room a delightful personality. The pom-pom trim on the canopy and the delicate bedding details bring a touch of fun to this inviting space. It’s as if chewing a piece of bubblegum came to life, I can hear the pop now!
Modern Traditional Half Bath
The rich green walls in this half-bath create a dramatic backdrop that pairs beautifully with the white pedestal sink and gold accents. I like the classic look of the beadboard paneling, adding texture and depth to the space. The golden wall sconces and towel ring provide a warm touch, and the large mirror reflects light, keeping the room from feeling too dark.
Modern Traditional Kitchen
The soft green cabinetry in this kitchen creates a soothing backdrop for the white marble countertops and island. The traditional details like the open shelving and paneled woodwork gives the space character. The warm wood tones in the floor and cabinetry accents create a welcoming feel. The overall look is both elegant and homey, making this kitchen a delightful place to cook and gather with family.
Modern Traditional Playroom
I love the playful yet cozy feel of this modern traditional playroom. The light blue walls and matching couch create a soothing atmosphere, while the gingham patterns add a touch of nostalgia. The built-in bookcases are exploding with colorful books, adding charm and a personal touch. The wicker coffee table complements the soft palette and brings a bit of warmth to the space. The room feels inviting and perfect for both kids and adults to relax and enjoy.
While you may think modern traditional interiors aren’t meant to be so bold, I hope you see we’ve proved you wrong. When you’re designing a modern traditional space you’ll want to keep the walls neutral and let the details speak for the modernity of the space. It’s in this contrast, you see how truly dynamic “traditional” style can be.