Within the ever-changing trends, there are a few that truly stand out and create a timeless aesthetic that is completely unique. This is where quiet luxury comes into play. Initially observed in the fashion industry, this style integrates high-quality materials into long-lasting and wearable designs. Like many trends, this idea of understated luxury is now making its way into our homes and into the world of interior design, which comes as no surprise. Quiet luxury signifies that there is no excessive glamour. Instead, these spaces evoke calmness, tranquillity, and graciously invite you into their oasis. In this atmosphere, every detail feels perfectly flawless. Its concept celebrates the beauty of simplicity, modest charm, and a perfectly balanced classic aesthetic. It embraces the principles of minimalism and focuses on removing excess clutter and unnecessary decor in order to allow the allure of the space and the quality of the materials to shine through.
Features of quiet luxury
Quiet luxury in home decor allows the materials and textures to take centre stage. Furniture with clean lines, a neutral colour palette, and natural materials like wood, stoneware, and linen work together to create a peaceful and inviting environment. In their very nature, these items embody effortlessness, timelessness and tranquility. Keep in mind, a true quiet luxury interior is all about items that are consistent in quality and maintain their value over the time. The emphasis is on crafting a space that is not only visually appealing, but can also stand the test of time against fleeting trends. To invest in the quiet luxury interior is to invest in a quality experience.
Credits: Studio Mcgee
Credits: Studio Mcgee
Vintage.. again?
Vintage pieces have been making an increasing appearance in interiors, and are known for their ability to meld seamlessly into varying interior aesthetics. When it comes to incorporating vintage pieces into the quiet luxury aesthetic, they go from being a classic choice, to one with intention. Not only are they an environmentally conscious option, they also offer a different take on quality - we have discovered that the most enduring items are the ones that have a history.
The secret to finding eternal pieces lies in looking into the past to honour the sentimental charm of bygone periods, something that is achieved through the very existence of vintage decor. When sourcing these pieces, it is not so much about the price or rarity, but rather about finding something that profoundly resonates with you. By incorporating vintage items, people can infuse their space with a unique and personal touch. Each piece carries its own narrative, enabling us to curate our own stories through the art of decor. Vintage pieces offer a quiet luxury that embodies both the past and the future, creating a new take on everlasting quality.
Credits: Studio Mcgee
Credits: Jake Arnold
Get creative with how you incorporate everyday objects
Embrace the essence of quiet luxury by curating a space that perfectly suits your needs. Don't hesitate to showcase the items you use in your daily routine, especially those that combine both style and function like berry bowls and trays. Easy everyday items like these can help effortlessly enhance the aesthetic appeal of any shelf, cabinet, ottoman, or coffee table. Pieces like these create a perfect balance of visual appeal and practical purpose. With their ability to elevate the everyday, these decorative pieces add a touch of sophistication to any space. By investing in distinctive and refined items that catch the eye, while ensuring their functionality aligns with your needs, you effortlessly invite quiet luxury into your life without adding unnecessary clutter.
Light up
Lighting can change the way an entire room feels. It plays a crucial role in setting the mood and atmosphere of a room, yet it is an interior technique often overlooked. To embody the essence of quiet luxury, classic and precisely crafted lighting steals the spotlight. By integrating various types of light, (such as ambient, task, and accent lighting) to a space, you create an extra layer of depth and a seriously cosy ambiance! And definitely do not underestimate the power of natural light. Through strategic placement of furniture near windows and the use of sheer curtains to maximise natural light, you can create a sense of openness and brightness within your living space. And don't forget, lighting doesn't have to be limited to just the inside of your home - play with hanging lanterns and sconces on the exterior of your home for that extra touch of luxury.
Credits: Chrislovesjulia
Credits: Studio Mcgee
Enhance architectural features
It's important to appreciate the beauty of quiet luxury by focusing on the design of your living space and selecting decor that highlights its architectural features. Enhancing the softer shapes in your home, particularly if they are already a part of the architecture, can add a touch of elegance. Consider incorporating elements like an arched mirror or a curved island to elevate the overall aesthetic and to counter the more rigid shapes of a space. Small details can make a big difference in the ambiance of a room. And don't forget to include negative space in an impactful way in your design. Negative space within a room creates a sense of openness and balance. It is utilised to harmonise the "positive space" and establish a well-balanced and inviting atmosphere. Simplify arrangements by placing individual objects or pairs on select shelves to draw attention to the most captivating pieces.
Credits: Lonefoxhome
The art of combining antique & contemporary decor
Achieving a balanced blend of old and new involves selecting items that bring you joy and that will hold a special place in your home. The combination of old and new does not necessarily mean incorporating antique or vintage items; it is more about repurposing a classic style or material with a contemporary touch. While vintage pieces can add character, too many can lead to a cluttered look. Pair them with sleek, clean surfaces and luxurious textures for a balanced aesthetic. Experiment by placing a new silk cushion on a weathered leather chair, for instance. Infuse natural textures such as leather, wool, and linen to create a cozy atmosphere. Layer plush throws and cushions, along with a variety of lamps, to bring warmth and depth to your space.
Credits: Sean Anderson Design
Embrace craftsmanship
Creating the perfect aesthetic requires the presence of handcrafted and artisanal pieces. By using natural materials and showcasing unique craftsmanship, you can effortlessly cultivate a space that radiates a sense of quiet luxury. Artisan items are usually available at artisan markets, craft fairs, and local shops that specialise in handcrafted products. You can also discover artisan pieces in online stores that offer handmade items and curated pieces, like ours! Pictured here are a few of our cushion covers, find out more about their make here.
Moreover, numerous artisans directly sell their creations through their own websites or social media platforms. It's important to note that achieving an elegant home doesn't necessarily mean shopping exclusively at high-end retailers. In fact, unique items often bring an elevated sense of luxury. Incorporate ceramics, woven textiles, and artisanal pottery into your decor to infuse it with character and authenticity.
Create a seamless indoor-outdoor flow
Transform your outdoor area into an extension of your home, blending your home décor seamlessly. Merge indoor and outdoor spaces with features such as bi-fold doors, terraces, and indoor plants to achieve a harmonious flow. By bringing elements of nature into your interior space, you can establish a strong connection to the outdoors. Achieving a balance of natural elements in your indoor-outdoor living area will give it the feeling of one cohesive room, rather than two separate spaces. In addition to incorporating plenty of greenery, you can also introduce natural and earthy materials such as wood, rattan, and bamboo into your furniture and decor to create a seamless flow and reinforce the connection between the two areas. When making your material selections, consider the two spaces as one unified design, just as you would with any other interior in your home. This approach will help you achieve a cohesive and visually appealing design that strengthens the connection between your indoor and outdoor living spaces, accomplishing that sense of quiet luxury.
Credits: Studio Mcgee
Credits: Studio Mcgee
The timeless appeal of timber
Timber has a timeless appeal that can complement any style of home, whether it's traditional or modern. It adds a touch of warmth and texture, adopting the quiet luxury trend. Over the years, innovative techniques have breathed new life into this classic material, making it a popular choice for those seeking a touch of elegance and sophistication in their living spaces. Wooden interior design has undergone significant changes throughout the years, being incorporated in chalets, villas, residential and commercial spaces, as well as in various architectural elements like cornice details, furniture, and ceiling rafters. Despite the introduction of new materials like glass, cement, and metal, timber remains a fundamental component. While individual preferences for colours, furniture, decor, and other elements may vary, timber continues to be a versatile and timeless choice that complements any design concept. The natural appeal and durability of wood makes it a versatile option for various applications in home decor, making it a go-to option in design.
Credits: Sean Anderson Design
Credits: Sean Anderson Design
Texture matters
In both interiors and life, it's the small details that can have the greatest impact. This is especially true when it comes to achieving understated elegance. By incorporating subtle and unexpected elements into your interior design, you can elevate your style without appearing overly deliberate. Introduce texture into your space by incorporating luxurious fabrics such as velvet or linen. These additions will add depth and dimension to your decor while still maintaining a refined and subtle aesthetic.
Credits: Sean Anderson Design
Bold patterns & textile layering
Bold and striking patterns may not be a central focus in the quiet luxury trend, but when used strategically they can still add a touch of refined style. Just remember to incorporate them with care. For instance, consider placing a textured bed throw over a simple duvet cover for a chic look. In a perfectly designed room, strategic textile layering will look effortless. By combining various textures and patterns, you can effortlessly introduce intrigue and depth into your living space. And the best part is, it doesn't have to be a complex process - even just adding a simple throw blanket can have a significant impact.
Credits: Studio Mcgee
Credits: Studio Mcgee
Finding the right balance
Achieving a sense of understated elegance in your home is all about finding the right balance. It's not about everything being perfectly symmetrical, but rather about creating a harmonious flow throughout the space. Strive to harmonise traditional architectural features with modern design elements. Explore the fusion of diverse textures and patterns but do so with subtlety, making sure that each element complements the others. Ensure that you do not skimp on high-quality materials and aim to seamlessly connect your outdoor and indoor areas. Ultimately, the goal is to create a space that feels welcoming and peaceful, where every element works together effortlessly. By following these simple guidelines, you can achieve the perfect balance for your own elegant and understated home.
Credits: Sean Anderson Design
Credits: Studio Mcgee
Trust your instincts
The concept of understated elegance has been a classic choice for centuries, but it has recently regained popularity among interior enthusiasts. By effectively balancing out these various elements through subtle adjustments, you can attain a classic and refined appearance that shines in its simplicity. This shift mirrors our continuous desire to make our living spaces feel personalised and multi-dimensional. Embracing the essence of quiet luxury allows you to craft a peaceful sanctuary within your own space, and if there's one valuable lesson to be learned from inviting quiet luxury into your home, it's to take your time, appreciate quality craftsmanship, and trust your instincts above the noise of passing trends. The focus is on quality over quantity, with a preference for materials and objects that age gracefully, acquiring character over time.
