While modernity, minimalism, and sleek, sharp lines seem to be popular for many modern homes, there is something about a traditional touch that can make any house feel cosier and more welcoming. You don’t need to purchase a classical 18th century home complete with rickety floorboards and its very own pantry to achieve this, though. Any modern home can achieve a traditional appeal as long as you know what to do. 

Natural Materials

Back in the day, people didn’t have the synthetic materials that seem to permeate every home wherever you go. Instead, they relied on natural materials, such as wood and metals, to provide function and style for their home. 

This is why people love handmade furniture so much, but it doesn’t end at hand carved coffee tables. You can also consider smaller pieces, such as cotton throws which can add character to sofas and chairs while also contributing to the cosy feel you want to achieve. 

Bits and Pieces

If you’ve ever spent time in an old traditional home, you’ll remember that it seems to be a cocktail of eras. You might find something from the 19th century, but also something from the early 20th century. There may be a mixture of items that have been passed through generations, becoming family heirlooms along the way. 

It feels like clutter, but it’s good clutter. While modern homes try to keep knick-knacks to a minimum, traditional houses have something odd and interesting on every shelf or wall. For anyone trying to achieve the traditional appeal, forget all you’ve learned about interior design and go with whatever you think adds some character to the place. 

Bring In Some Life

House plants are something that a lot of people are currently queuing up outside garden centres for. They have become a trendy thing, especially for millennials who don’t have kids or pets. Little dracaenas or peace lilies are an excellent way to add a touch of nature to your home, but you can also think bigger. 

Consider investigating which native plants you can grow with success and bring them into your home. Unlike tropical plants, they won’t demand much care and attention, but they will still add a traditional appeal. 

Softer Lighting

Soft lighting is a superb way for you to save money on your energy bills, but it’s also excellent for adding the cosiness that you need from a traditional home. These soft, low-energy lights can mimic candles as well as reducing eye strain while you’re sitting up by the fire reading before bed. 

If you want to dive into the traditional spirit, you can buy candles instead, just make sure you remember the slow them out before going to sleep. 

Turning a Modern Home Traditional

If you’re someone who feels modern homes are far too bare for your liking and prefer the types of home you grew up reading about in classic books or watched on period dramas every evening, these ideas will help you achieve the traditional home of your dreams. From natural materials to soft lighting, there are plenty of ways to create the traditional home of your dreams. 

We’re very proud to bring you this feature in association with Reeve & Co. For more inspiration for your home, please pay a visit to our interiors page.