Minimalism and luxury are two major concepts in the world of interior design and are especially important in Scandinavian interior design. But have you ever heard of ‘quiet luxury’?
It’s a trend that’s been around in the fashion industry for a while but has been slowly gaining traction in the interior design industry lately. This approach seeks to create a sense of understated elegance in the home, one that is not flashy or pretentious but rather serene and comfortable, defined by simplicity and minimalism, and a focus on quality materials. In other words, it’s a departure from the flashy design ideas of the luxury image but without sacrificing the quality that comes with it.
Quiet luxury and Scandinavian design work very well together as a result. And so we explore what ‘quiet luxury’ is all about and why it is quickly becoming a popular trend in home design.
What is Quiet Luxury?
As mentioned above, quiet luxury is a design concept that combines minimalism, elegance, and quality materials. It’s about making design choices that feel deliberate, with an emphasis on beauty and functionality. This approach often incorporates minimalism and Scandinavian design elements, with a strong emphasis on practicality and simplicity.
Some of the hallmarks of quiet luxury include muted colour palettes, clean lines, natural materials, and uncluttered spaces. In many ways, it’s a response to the “more is more” mentality of the past decade. It’s an idea that emphasizes quality over quantity – quiet luxury is about creating a space that feels luxurious without being ostentatious.
You can see in this comparison that traditional luxury is comprised of larger, statement items with big bold colors like gold. While with quiet luxury you can see the space is utilised far more for that minimalist effect. Fewer items, but still of high quality allow for a stylish and practical living space. The focus is not on showing off but creating a sense of calm and serenity in the home.
Why is it becoming a popular trend?
In a world where we are constantly bombarded with messages and stimuli, people are seeking a sense of calm and tranquillity in their homes. ‘Quiet luxury’ offers a way to create an oasis of calm amid chaos.
One reason quiet luxury is gaining popularity is due to the increased awareness of sustainability and the desire for eco-friendly living. People want to invest in long-lasting and durable materials that don’t harm the environment. Quiet luxury embodies this desire for longevity and impact.
Another reason for its growing popularity is because of the pandemic. With people spending more time at home, there is a greater need for comfort and simplicity. The chaotic world outside has meant that many homeowners have turned to interior design as a form of escape. Quiet luxury has become a go-to trend for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing space.
Who can benefit from ‘Quiet Luxury’ interiors?
A quiet luxury home can offer many benefits, both physical and mental. By creating a serene and soothing space, homeowners can reduce stress and promote relaxation, which can in turn lead to better sleep, improved mood, and increased productivity. Additionally, the design principles often place a strong emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendliness, ensuring that your home is not only beautiful but also environmentally responsible.
It is also ideal for those who want to create a home that is comfortable and welcoming, rather than flashy or pretentious. Especially those who are also enamored by the minimalist principles of Scandinavian design, as quiet luxury borrows heavily from it and then focuses slightly more on texture to create more comfort. Essentially if you are a fan of clean and minimalist, quiet luxury offers ‘comfortable minimalism’, and who doesn’t want that?
How to Achieve the Look
A great way to begin bringing quiet luxury into your home is to look for furniture which defies its price tag. Be sure to check out this article of curated pieces from Wayfair that look far more luxurious than their price tag would suggest.
Avoid Generic
To incorporate quiet luxury into your home, start by selecting high-quality materials such as natural woods, stone, and textiles. Avoid anything that feels cheap or mass-produced, unfortunately, we can’t recommend our fan-favorite IKEA for this, as this will detract from the luxurious ambiance you are trying to create.
Stick to a Neutral Palette
When it comes to color, opt for neutral shades like beige, white, and gray, as these will create a calm and serene atmosphere. Incorporate texture through the use of throw pillows and blankets, or a plush area rug. Add natural elements, such as plants or flowers, to bring the outdoors inside and create a fresh, welcoming feel.
Embrace Simplicity
Quiet luxury is all about simplicity and minimalism. When designing a quiet luxury space, aim to create visual interest without overwhelming the senses. This can be achieved by incorporating simple shapes. For instance, emphasize an oak shelf with white vases, place woven baskets as under-bed storage solutions, and showcase a unique piece of art above the mantel.
Less is More
The ‘less is more’ approach is evident in the pieces chosen for quiet luxury rooms: every piece of furniture and decoration holds its own place in the overall composition. Keep the layout simple and uncluttered, with a few well-chosen pieces of furniture and accessories. Therefore, only a handful of carefully curated accessories will complete the look of the space. Aim to select beautiful yet simple décor pieces, such as a vase or candle, so that they can be used as a statement piece themselves.
The beauty of quiet luxury is its versatility – it can be used in any space or style and goes beyond traditional ideas about luxury. Quiet luxury also links interesting textures, choice materials, and careful craftsmanship together to create spaces with a sense of subtle sophistication and modern refinement.
As more people give preference to experience over thing-having, quiet luxury may just be the perfect trend for homeowners wanting to create comfortable yet sophisticated destinations that serve as retreats from our increasingly frantic world.
Whether you choose subtle hints of comfort or indulgent treats, allowing yourself some downtime to enjoy the little things will make all the difference. So what are your thoughts on this luxurious trend? What do you like most about quiet luxury? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
For those looking to enhance the ambiance further, consider incorporating flameless taper candles for a touch of warmth and sophistication in your quiet luxury space.