The Art of Quiet Luxury & Understated Design

By Interior Designer Tracy Svendsen | Published on December 12, 2024 | 

Quiet Luxury in Interior Design: Although it is difficult to encapsulate this understated and timeless design style, quiet luxury is epitomized by having unassuming and refined elegance that boasts a whisper of taste rather than an exuberant display. Although these sentiments apply to several interior styles, none define this description more than that of quiet luxury.

It embodies the concept that it is the quality of materials, not the quantity, that gives pieces their enduring value and inherent beauty. It’s about investing in high-quality treasures that will last and live on for generations. Quiet luxury also embraces the standard concepts of good design leaning towards curated simplicity where thoughtful details elevate the space.

“Good design is the delicate play of interaction and connection between shapes, scale, color, and texture.  It’s deliberate juxtaposition of light and dark, soft and hard, vertical and horizontal planes.  It’s relationships between forms, volume, and silhouettes.” – Elizabeth Metcalf EM Design.

For those seeking to recreate this look at home, it’s essential to begin by understanding the fundamentals of creating curated interiors that evoke a sense of calm and completeness that reveals a layered narrative. Feature image courtesy of 1508 London Design Studio.

Here are a few ideas to get you started on your journey:

Quiet Luxury Interior Design
Image courtesy of Jenn Feldman Interior Design

1. Start with the Layout

Begin by taking note of the layout to ensure that all the needs of the space are being addressed and to create a roadmap that will guide the aesthetic and function of the space. This will allow you to tailor everything from furniture selection to the flow of movement, ensuring every square foot works for you. It’s imperative to choose furniture that is of the proper scale so the finished room looks balanced and well-proportioned.

Think about how you entertain and where you will conceal technology. It’s also a good rule of thumb to establish a focal point that draws the eye, anchors the room, and highlights the most impressive feature of the space. This sets the mood, the contrast, the sense of being, and the finishes.

Starting with the Layout
Image courtesy of Elicyon Studio Design

2. Choose a Refined Color Palette

Set the tone by choosing a neutral color palette in muted hues that exude elegance and sophistication. Quiet luxury embraces warm neutrals such as off-white, beige, and shades of taupe that are paired with nature-inspired tones such as soft greens, muted blues, and soft browns. These saturated tones are the perfect backdrop to allow furniture and artwork to take center stage while also creating a calming atmosphere that evokes the feeling of subdued luxury, similar to a high-end spa.

Refined & Neutral Color Palette
Images courtesy of Buthaina Humaidy Design

3. Layer Different Textures

Layering textures is a fundamental and necessary step in interior design that enhances the color scheme while providing richness and depth. Blending multiple sources of textures has a tremendous impact on the overall design. Velvet sofas, bouclé chairs, antique brass lighting, and marble details mix with modern finishes and abstract artwork in this elevated design style.

Layering Different Textures
Image courtesy of Humbert & Poyet Design

4. Include Textured Home Accents

Vases, sculptures, mirrors, and ornaments are another way to add glorious texture to any space. Make a strong statement by curating an arrangement of these objects throughout the space, alternating texture, shape, and scale. Keep the assortment relevant to each other, with a less is more attitude to keep the look cohesive and intriguing.

Textured Home Accents
Image courtesy of Felix Millory Design

5. Use Contrasting Fabrics

Contrasting fabrics add interest to any room in the home. Let natural light filter through sheer drapery panels and incorporate lampshades that introduce silk, velvet, or linen. Provide a sumptuous collection of throw pillows and blankets and ground the space with a soft area rug.

Contrasting Fabrics
Image courtesy of Aman & Meeks Design

6. Add Textured Furniture

Another great way to introduce texture is through furniture incorporated into the design. Consider smooth marble tables, leather chairs, rustic oak dining tables, shagreen accent furniture, or a rich and inviting velvet sofa. It is these thoughts to detail that provide an alluring view as your eye moves around the space.

Textured Furniture
Image courtesy of Humbert & Poyet Design

7. Add Bouclé for a Chic Detail

Bouclé has earned its place in the most discerning spaces throughout the world. Bring textural appeal to even understated forms, its name is derived from the French word ‘loop’, and is available in wool, silk, and cotton variations. It lends itself to rounded, soft, and sculptural furniture that is often found in modern neutral interiors. Its texture and appearance have made it one of the most polarizing materials in the history of fashion and furniture.

“I think bouclé has always been in style in the right places and for the right pieces,” says Sally Julien. “It definitely was used on some original, iconic, mid-century pieces, and that lends it a certain gravitas in the design world. There will always be trends that drive certain styles and fabrics into higher and lower demand, but really a nice bouclé will always be in vogue when used appropriately.” Principle Designer at Modernous, Sally Julien

Incorporating Bouclé
Image courtesy of Alix Get Interiors

8. Incorporate Cashmere Details

Known for its inimitable softness, cashmere brings a sense of warmth and comfort to a space. Most often used in throws, cushions, and upholstery, cashmere adds an elegance that aligns with quiet luxury and minimalist interior design.

It’s the epitome of refinement, bringing unique texture and color, and pairs perfectly with velvet and silk. Incorporating luxury fabrics like velvet, silk, and cashmere into your home decor is the perfect way to create a living area that exudes elegance and sophistication.

Incorporated Cashmere into Elegant & Understated Design
Image courtesy of Helen Green Design Studio

9. Velvet Touches

Velvet is a perennial favorite that instantly elevates a room’s aesthetic, infusing a luxurious and glamorous feel while adding comfort and softness. Velvet furniture, window treatments, and throw pillows can be easily integrated into a neutral color scheme without overpowering. Velvet headboards add richness to the bedroom while creating a decadent and warm focal point.

Adding Velvet Touches
Image courtesy of Buthaina Humaidy Design

10. Marble Surfaces & Accents

Marble, a timeless and luxurious material, has been used in grand palaces and elegant homes for centuries. Whether it’s a simple coffee table, the mantel above a fireplace, kitchen countertops, or an intricate floor design, marble adds a touch of sophistication and timeless elegance to any living space. It’s available in a stunning range of color and pattern choices, symbolizing refinement and upscale design.

Incorporating Marble Surfaces in Quiet Luxury Design
Image courtesy of EM Design

11. Antique Brass Lighting & Accents

Antique brass brings a sense of timeless beauty, history, and a lived-in feel to a home. It’s versatile, radiates warmth, and easily adapts to any design style. Antique brass can be used as accent lighting for artwork, statement hardware pieces, and stunning sculptural forms.

Antique Brass Details
Image courtesy of Brady Williams Studio

12. Rounded & Sculptural Furniture

You may have noticed an increase in furniture with gentle curves and rounded forms. This design is having a serious design moment that will continue strong through 2025. This organic modern style continues to grow in popularity and includes incorporating circular coffee and dining tables, large oblong mirrors, and curving sofas. Organic modern and quiet luxury pair beautifully together, and work well in all rooms in the home.  

Rounded & Sculptural Furniture
Image courtesy of Elicyon Design

13. Mixing Old With The New

Incorporating vintage or antique pieces into a modern home injects personality, keeps the space from looking one-dimensional, and creates a luxurious yet understated feel. It provides a ‘designer feel‘ to a room that looks thoughtfully curated and collected over time.

Mixing Old With New
Image courtesy of Brittany Hakimfar Design

14. Quality Over Quantity

When it comes to achieving a quiet luxury aesthetic, less is often more. Prioritize quality over quantity, selecting a few high-quality pieces that exude elegance and sophistication. By focusing on high-quality materials, luxurious fabrics, and an eye for detail, you can create a space that embodies grace and charm.

Quiet Luxury Quality VS. Quantity
Image courtesy of Brady Williams Studio

15. Include Artisanal Touches

Achieving an elegant home doesn’t require a luxury price tag. In fact, unique, handmade pieces like ceramics, textiles, and pottery can add a touch of luxury and character to a home based on warm neutrals. The joy of creating a quiet luxury aesthetic is discovering special pieces from unexpected sources.

Artisinal Touches
Image courtesy of EM Design Studio

16. Natural Materials

Decorating with natural elements creates a connection to the outdoors, promoting a sense of well-being and tranquility. Materials like wood, natural stone, and wool have a timeless quality that stands the test of time and transcends trends.

They age beautifully, often becoming more sophisticated over time, which contributes to their enduring value and aesthetic appeal. Each piece of natural material, whether it’s a slab of stone or a wooden beam, possesses unique patterns and textures that add character to a space.

Decorating with Natural Elements
Image courtesy of Brittany Hakimfar Design

17. Present Your Lighting In Layers

Strategic lighting design is crucial in injecting a sense of romance and luxury into each room of the home. By incorporating a variety of light sources, such as chandeliers, pendants, table lamps, and wall sconces, you can transform your space throughout the day. Often referred to as the ‘jewelry‘ of the home by interior designers, lighting fixtures not only illuminate the room but also serve as stunning design elements.

Elegant & Layered Lighting
Image courtesy of Brady Williams Studio

18. Area Rugs

A well-chosen rug can elevate your living room design, tying together the space and providing a foundation for your furniture arrangement. Consider the proportions of your room and choose a rug that complements the existing color scheme and style.  

Opt for durable and sustainable materials like wool or natural fibers to ensure your rug stands the test of time. A neutral-toned rug can create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere, while a patterned rug can add a touch of personality.

Use an Area Rug to Ground the Space
Image courtesy of Brittany Hakimfar Design

19. Lived In Aesthetic

To achieve a quiet luxury interior design aesthetic it’s important to embrace a lived-in look with timeless appeal. Display personal items like books, framed photos, and decorative objects to add warmth and character to your space. Incorporate functional elements, such as a lovely box to put your TV remote, into your decor to create a seamless and inviting environment.

Lived in Design Aesthetic
Image courtesy of 1508 London Design Studio

20. Invest in Timeless Pieces

Quiet luxury prioritizes timeless design over fleeting trends. Invest in high-quality, classic pieces that will endure for generations. Choose furniture and accessories with clean lines, impeccable craftsmanship, and enduring appeal.

Investing in Timeless Pieces
Image courtesy of Brady Williams Studio

21. Invest In Art You Love

Investing in timeless pieces that you’ll cherish for years to come is key to achieving a quiet luxury aesthetic. Consider incorporating a gallery wall featuring unique artwork and personal memorabilia. These curated displays add character and personality to your space. Another lovely option is large-scale paintings that pull in warm neutrals used throughout the space or add a vibrant splash of color.

Investing in Artwork
Image courtesy of Elicyon Studio Design

22. Clean Lines

When a design emphasizes clean lines, it shifts attention toward the quality of materials and craftsmanship. This focus on detail can elevate the overall design, showcasing premium furniture and finishes rather than competing patterns and textures.

Clean lines can improve the functionality of a space. They often facilitate better traffic flow and usage of space, ensuring that the layout works for everyday life while maintaining an aesthetic appeal.

Clean Lines in Design
Image courtesy of Brittany Hakimfar Design

23. Quiet Luxury in Entryways

Achieving quiet luxury in the entryway involves creating a space that is both welcoming and stylish while embodying the timeless elegance characteristic of this design philosophy. Ensure the entryway layout facilitates a smooth flow. Consider how people will enter and exit, and arrange furniture accordingly.

Include a chic console table or a bench that offers both style and practicality. Take a minimalist approach, choosing pieces that match the scale of the space for a balanced look. Incorporate high-quality materials such as polished wood, natural stone, or elegant metals. A marble console or a wooden bench can add that luxurious touch.

Quiet Luxury in the Entryway
Image courtesy of Brittany Hakimfar Design

24. Elegant Powder Rooms

The powder room is often an overlooked space in a home, yet it offers a unique opportunity to express style and sophistication. Embracing the principles of a quiet luxury aesthetic can transform this intimate area into a sanctuary of understated elegance.

Invest in quality materials that will stand the test of time. A marble countertop or a handcrafted sink can serve as a focal point, exuding sophistication. Choose fixtures in refined finishes such as brushed nickel, matte black, or antique brass to add subtle elegance and texture.

Elegant Powder Rooms
Image courtesy of Brittany Hakimfar Design

25. Living Rooms

The living room serves as the heart of a home, a space where style meets comfort and conversation flows. For a quiet luxury feel, and elegant design, invest in high-quality materials that elevate the look. Soft, luxurious fabrics such as velvet or linen for upholstery provide comfort and elegance.

Consider incorporating natural materials like wood, stone, or leather for furniture pieces to add warmth and authenticity. Textural variety is vital in achieving quiet luxury in a modern living room.

Layering different fabrics and materials—such as a plush area rug, floor-to-ceiling windows adorned with luxe curtains, knitted throws, and a mix of cushions in various textures—can create an inviting and tactile environment. The finishing touches – crown molding, antique pieces, curated artwork, and open shelving displaying pottery and sculptures.

Quiet Luxury in the Living Room
Image courtesy of Buthaina Humaidy Design

26. Up-Scale Kitchens

When it comes to creating a kitchen that embodies quiet luxury, the focus should be on elegance, functionality, and quality. Invest in premium materials such as natural stone countertops, solid wood cabinetry, and high-end appliances.

Marble or quartzite for countertops can add a sophisticated touch to a modern kitchen, while hardwood floors add warmth and longevity to the space. Opt for sleek cabinetry with minimalist hardware or even handleless designs to maintain a clean aesthetic. Custom cabinetry adds refinement and ensures that every inch of space is maximized for functionality without sacrificing style.

Quiet Luxury in the Kitchen
Image courtesy of Olivia Crawford Design

27. Quiet Luxury Style in Dining Rooms

Choose high-quality, timeless pieces for your dining table and chairs. A wood or stone table can create a warm, inviting atmosphere, while upholstered chairs in luxurious fabrics like linen or velvet add a touch of softness.

Consider a muted color palette featuring soft neutrals and nature-inspired tones, or embrace the rising trend of dark and moody design by incorporating shades of olive green, deep purples, or navy blues.

Select tableware and decor that aligns with the quiet luxury and modern dining room theme. Opt for fine dinnerware, minimalist centerpieces, and elegant glassware. Keep decorations subtle, such as a simple vase with fresh flowers or scented candles in understated holders. Be sure to include curated art pieces, a statement chandelier, and a large-scale area rug.

Quiet Luxury in the Dining Room
Image courtesy of Brittany Hakimfar Design

28. Home Offices in Quiet Luxury Interiors

Choose a calm and cohesive color scheme for your home office that reflects understated luxury. Invest in high-quality furniture that combines comfort with style. A beautifully crafted desk made from solid wood or a sleek marble tabletop can serve as a stunning focal point.

Incorporate various textures to create visual interest without overwhelming the space. A plush area rug underfoot, combined with smooth leather or soft upholstered seating, can add depth. Integrating textured wall art or greenery, like a living plant or elegant vase, further enriches the environment.

Home Office Design
Image courtesy of Brittany Hakimfar Design

29. Layered Bedrooms

The bedroom is a sanctuary, a place for rest and rejuvenation, and it can greatly benefit from the principles of quiet luxury and understated design. The use of multiple textures is essential in achieving a luxurious feel.

Choose bedding made of high-quality materials such as cotton, linen, or silk for a sumptuous touch. Incorporate a variety of throw pillows and blankets with different textures, like velvets and knits, to add depth and warmth.

Select modern bedroom furniture pieces that are both functional and stylish. A beautifully crafted bed frame, perhaps in a rich wood or upholstered in bouclé or velvet, can serve as a centerpiece. Consider a plush armchair or a chic chaise lounge to create an inviting nook.

Quiet Luxury in the Bedroom
Image courtesy of EM Design

30. Refined Bathrooms

Creating a bathroom that embodies quiet luxury involves focusing on subtle elegance. Opt for high-quality materials such as natural stone, marble, or glossy porcelain for tiles and countertops.

Invest in sleek, streamlined modern bathroom fixtures like a freestanding bathtub, a wall-mounted faucet, or minimalist shower heads. Opt for finishes in matte black, brushed nickel, or polished brass for a sophisticated touch. Create a spa-like bathroom by displaying fluffy white towels, fresh greenery, contemporary trays, and decadent soaps and lotions.

Quiet Luxury in the Bathroom
Image courtesy of Brady Williams Studio

31. Outdoor Areas

Quiet luxury isn’t confined to indoor spaces; it can extend beautifully into outdoor areas, creating serene retreats that emphasize understated elegance. Invest in high-quality outdoor furniture made from durable yet luxurious materials, such as teak, powder-coated aluminum, or premium wicker. Look for sleek designs with neutral cushions that convey a refined aesthetic.

Quiet Luxury in Outdoor Spaces
Image courtesy of Brittany Hakimfar Design

Quiet Luxury Conclusion

In conclusion, the essence of quiet luxury in interior design lies in its ability to blend sophistication with simplicity, focusing on quality over quantity. By embracing curated details, a refined color palette, and a harmonious mix of textures, homeowners can create spaces that reflect understated elegance and timeless beauty.

As we incorporate elements like bouclé and cashmere into our interiors, we elevate the design with layers of comfort and warmth, allowing each room to tell its own story. Ultimately, quiet luxury is about being discerning in our choices, making investments that resonate with personal style while also standing the test of time, crafting an enduring sanctuary that truly feels like home.

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