There are few design styles I personally love more than the old world European look. What are some common characteristics of this style?
- Aged stone and brick
- Gravel driveways and paths
- Lush garden
- Antique doors
- Distressed floors
- Darker and medium tone wood furnishings
- wood beams
- neutrals
- pattern play
- outdoor shutters
To be clear, when I say old world European, it really is a mixture of time periods and components from European countries. For example, a Swiss chalet meets an English Tudor evokes that old world look.
So right from the start, just know this is not exclusively French Country or Italian in nature. Old world European is really just my way of identifying the charm that characterizes a time when people were more connected to their homes and it reflected the lives they led.
A time where materials were often sourced locally and there was a very simplified approach to living.
In fact, you will find that there are a few designs in here that are distinct, but similar. English arts and crafts architecture and Normandy are examples you will see in some of the homes below.
How Do I know What is Truly "Old World?"
Choose quality heirloom pieces before anything else.
Not to mention, I find that homes or apartments with a mixture of vintage pieces, evoke a sense of warmth and achieve a look that feels more connected to people.
When you have a more curated look it becomes intentional.
However, curating pieces is a great test of patience.
Even if you mix pieces from different stores, you tend to find buying things within a short period results in pieces that are too similar.
Why is this the case?
Trends.
It is the current trend that will drive design and therefore what you can find. That is why mixing old pieces with your box store finds is going to help you achieve a more curated look, regardless of your style.
Now, how do we really find something that fits your old world sensibilities?
This is where you need to focus on styles that are more traditional in nature. You can certainly then decide what your “accent” style will be.
Do you love that old world look, but enjoy some more modern lines? If you have a more cottage design preference, you will favor pieces that have been around for hundreds of years and look more “loved.”
What are some ways to easily achieve a more old world European look? Let’s dissect some things you can do!
Medium and Dark Tone Woods
Use medium and dark tone woods as they are considered classics.
You can certainly mix in more blonde woods, but keep those minimal in favor of richer tones. Let me show you an example of how this plays out in a space.
Notice that you can mix and match, but it’s really important to evoke a mood. This is one interior design that is certainly not fussy. You can literally thrift your way to this aesthetic.
In fact, using your grandparents pieces may really get you closer to what you want when imitating this style. I don’t see how you need to break the bank to achieve the look.
I would argue that outside of the staple pieces in your room, you can probably go thrift your way to a curated look with little effort. You may find an amazing vintage bed frame, but of course, it may need some serious effort and time to clean and restore. Many places now create furniture and pieces that will get you this old world look easily, without spending countless hours or weeks of your life searching online or in thrift shops.
Focus on Pattern and Warm Neutrals
Keep in mind this doesn’t mean keeping everything dark. You can get a light and airy feel while still keeping it old world.
It’s really a matter of what you do with furnishings and layering your decor.
You can have white walls and white chairs. Perhaps you just bring in some richer tones via the curtains, pillows and rug. The aesthetic of your room is also going to depend on the shapes.
If you keep everything very curved or too minimal it will feel one-dimensional. So the key is really mixing elements and making sure you focus on the textures, shapes and curated pieces.
Also, don’t be afraid of pattern. For a very sophisticated take on a European look, be willing to go bold in your pattern play.
Like any style, there is a sliding scale.
For some people they love a very chateau look and want to infuse bold colors and pattern.
Others want a more subdued version of the style and choose to keep patterns smaller, but balanced against more neutral choices. It is really up to you and the direction you want to take your home!
Pro Tip: Remember, even when selecting a neutral foundation like a white for your walls, choose a warm undertone white versus a crisp cool white. That one choice plays a key role in the overall feeling of your room.
Take Pride in Curb Appeal
The very first thing you or anyone else ever sees is on the outside. The materials, colors, landscaping and shapes will all tell the story of what can be expected on the inside. Some simple things that create an old world European aesthetic include:
- Lush garden
- Pea gravel walkway & driveway
- Shutters
- Brick and/or stone
- Bronze or copper metal finishes
- Exterior lanterns with a traditional look
- Window boxes
See some of my favorite exteriors below!
Use Thrifted Finds
Pieces that look “loved,” as I like to say, give off charm and they help keep costs down in several cases.
Even if your sideboard is only a few decades old, it can be the right piece if only you strip the veneer and restain it.
Perhaps the piece doesn’t make sense as it is, but you can take a hutch for example and use only the portion that matches your design.
Unquestionably, this is where you can really use thrifted finds that accessorize your home in a way that takes your place from “average” to AMAZING.
Thrifted finds are not easy to duplicate so it gives your space uniqueness, rather than relying on what the box stores offer. Thrifted vases, bowls, trays, books, candelabras, art, frames, containers, etc. are all relatively easy ways to get started on curating a charming old world look.
Moldings and Trim Work
I saved one of my favorites for the end, but it is not to be overlooked.
Have you ever noticed how a simple wall treatment can really elevate a room?
Why is it that people are willing to pay good money for coffered celings or shiplap?
It provides instant character and elevates your space when done correctly.
What can be a very basic baseboard can become sophisticated when done right. Stacking trim on baseboard is a great way to make a statement and with a rather small amount of money.
Wainscoting is another wonderful way to add character, but be prepared to pay for it unless you will DIY.
Also, keep in mind there are several versions of wainscoting so, know the difference between craftsman and Parisian styles for example.
I want to hear from you, what is your favorite design style? If you love the Old World aesthetic, how do you incorporate this look in your home?
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From the time I was a young child, I have loved interior design and beautiful things. Ten-year-old me would create “floor plans” on notebook paper and design the dream homes of my siblings. We would have an initial meeting and after jotting down their wish list, I got to work creating the home of their dreams.
After designing the layout, I would take the Sunday newspaper ads (are those still a thing?) and cut out pictures of furniture, lamps, and accessories to create mood boards for each room in the home. When I was all done, weeks and weeks later, I would showcase my work and pitch my design ideas to a sibling.
If you too enjoy beautiful things and the process of turning a vision into a reality, welcome! If you love watching homes transform, but just don’t know how to start or have the resources to buy everything you like, stick around. I love finding affordable and practical design solutions to give YOU a gorgeous home you can be proud of.
Together, let’s reveal what’s possible.
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