Why Quiet Luxury is Redefining Modern Interior Design

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Time to read 4 min

In the fast-paced world of fashion and design, trends come and go, but some designs resonate deeply and withstand the test of time. In home decor, as in fashion, "quiet luxury" has come to describe the tastes of those who appreciate refinement.


Allow us to share a few of quiet luxury’s principles and strengths for anyone keen to create a more sophisticated, timeless aesthetic at home.

The Origins of Quiet Luxury Decor

A studio apartment just a stone’s throw from Avenue Montaigne, opposite the Saint-Régis Hotel. Designed by Studio Le Cann. Photo by Alice Mesguich. 

“Quiet luxury” emerged as a term in the fashion industry as an appreciation for quality, craftsmanship and timelessness.


As Kerrie Kelly, an esteemed interior designer, articulates, "this embodies a refined elegance that whispers rather than shouts."


The essence of quiet luxury isn’t merely in its aesthetic, but rather the lifestyle it represents - a sophisticated, lived-in approach to beauty that emphasizes under-stated elegance and genuine quality.

Quiet Luxury’s Key Strengths

The rise of quiet luxury at home isn’t anything new. In fact, this style has existed for centuries in many variations. That’s its strength - timelessness.


While they take many unique forms, quietly luxurious interiors share a few common characteristics:


  • Neutral Colors: Soft, muted color palettes create tranquil atmospheres that serve as retreats from busy life. Shades of beige, cream, and soft greys promote calm and serene moods.
  • Classic Silhouettes: Timeless designs endure, making them the perfect selection for furniture and decor that will never go out of style. Look for pieces that have simple lines and elegant forms. They will complement one another easily.
  • Quality Furnishings: Quiet luxury emphasizes craftsmanship by using high-quality, well-made items. Whether sourced from online or at a local shop, choose furnishings that possess unique stories from independent designers and retailers.

9 Tips To Create Quiet Luxury Spaces

Kitchen by Interior Designer Hollie Bowden
As sunroom room with the La Plume Armchair by Lemon exudes connects indoor and outdoor beauty.

Embracing quiet luxury involves thoughtful curation and design choices. Here are several ways to bring this timeless aesthetic to life in your home:

  1. Celebrate Items with Story: Showcase beautiful, functional objects that you use in your day-to-day life or cherished heirloom pieces to create spaces with character, reflecting laid-back elegance.
  2. Opt For Quality Over Quantity: Fewer, high-quality items of interest can speak volumes. Focus on statement pieces and let special pieces have room to breathe within the space.
  3. Be Intentional with Lighting: Layer different types of lighting - ambient, task, and accent - to create depth. Enhance natural light to create an airy, open feeling.
  4. Lean Into Your Architecture: Focus on your home's architecture and best features. Use decor elements that reference your homes’s fundamental design and flatter its assets, making the space feel cohesive and intelligent.
  5. Mix Old And New: Blend vintage or antique items with contemporary pieces in a ratio that feels right for you. This fosters a sense of authenticity and warmth.
  6. Connect Interior And Exterior Spaces: Establish connections between indoor and outdoor areas using bi-fold doors or the strategic placement of greenery at entries. This integration enhances the experience of your home, acknowledging nature as a great luxury.
  7. Add Artisanal Touches: Incorporate ceramics or textiles that showcase artistry and craftsmanship, adding texture and a human touch to your design.
  8. Embrace A Lived-In Look: Create a comfortable aesthetic that reflects your personality and is open to evolution. Display personal items like books, photographs, and candles.
  9. Invest In Timeless Pieces: Prioritize classic, heirloom-quality furnishings that offer lasting beauty. Select items with clean lines and exceptional craftsmanship, ensuring that each piece carries timeless appeal.

Reflecting on Quiet Luxury Decor

In a world filled with frenetic energy and fleeting trends, quiet luxury promotes timeless elegance and quality. By embracing neutral colors, classic silhouettes and quality furnishings, spaces become intimate gathering places and retreats that embody tranquility. This need for tranquility is timeless, so in a sense, the quiet luxury trend is an age-old aesthetic redefined. 

Seven Ball” Cutlery Set by Jessi Burch, available on The Oblist.
Mixing old and new furniture and architectural features, featuring the Constant nightstand designed by Yaniv Chen, available on The Oblist.

FAQs

What does quiet luxury mean in interior design?

In interior design, quiet luxury is characterized by a focus on understated elegance and quality craftsmanship. It refers to any refined aesthetic that prioritizes subtle sophistication over flashy or overtly branded items. The trend highlights a "lived-in" feel with an emphasis on quality rather than excess.

Why is quiet luxury trending in home design?

Its popularity reflects a shift toward intentional living, where comfort, authenticity, and longevity matter more than passing fads. It promotes a curated, balanced space that feels both personal and timeless, in a world that moves faster than ever before. 

How do neutral colors enhance a room?

Neutral colors and muted tones create a calming and serene atmosphere. They provide a subtle backdrop that allows furnishings and artwork to stand out. 

What role does lighting play in quiet luxury?

Layered lighting - ambient, task, and accent - adds depth and warmth, enhancing the space’s elegance.

How should I mix old and new pieces for timeless style?

Focus on quality craftsmanship and simple silhouettes to maintain a harmonious balance.

Why is investing in timeless pieces important for quiet luxury interiors?

Heirloom-quality furniture and decor offer lasting beauty and durability. Choosing well-crafted, classic designs ensures a refined aesthetic that transcends trends.

Gary SFEZ - The Oblist Co founder

Gary SFEZ

Co-founder of The Oblist and a passionate advocate for timeless design. Through his writing, he explores history and craftsmanship to inspire unique and authentic interiors.