The medieval style has always evoked images of castles, tapestries, dark wood, and an aesthetic rich in symbolism and details. However, in recent years, we’ve seen a resurgence of this style with a modern twist. The modern medieval style in decoration combines the majesty of the past with the functionality and design of contemporary times. This approach allows medieval elements, with their historical and handcrafted character, to adapt to current tastes and needs, creating unique spaces full of personality. From CHG, we share everything you need to know about the modern medieval style.
What is the Modern Medieval Style?
The modern medieval style does not aim to recreate the Middle Ages exactly but offers a reinterpretation that retains the essence of the era while integrating the simplicity and minimalism that defines contemporary design. This style has the ability to offer a sophisticated, mysterious, and cozy atmosphere while respecting functionality and light—two essential elements of modern decoration.
Key Elements of the Modern Medieval Style
- Natural and Textured Materials
At the heart of the medieval style are natural materials: wood, stone, wrought iron, and thick fabrics. However, in its modern version, these materials are combined with more polished, modern finishes to achieve a balance between rustic and refined.
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Wood: Dark or aged wood is a medieval classic. In the modern style, it can be paired with more minimalist furniture or smoother surfaces like marble or glass to avoid the heaviness of ancient castles.
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Stone and Brick: Exposed stone walls or weathered bricks can be used to create a bold atmosphere but combined with lighter details like white ceilings or neutral walls.
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Wrought Iron: Wrought iron gates and medieval-style lamps are an elegant touch in modern spaces but without overloading the environment. This type of metal can incorporate cleaner and simpler lines to balance the medieval austerity with today’s dynamism.
- Furniture with Character
In modern medieval style, furniture tends to be robust but with a more fluid and simple design. While medieval furniture was known for its imposing size, the modern trend leans towards creating functional yet equally striking pieces. High-backed wooden chairs or large dining tables can be paired with cushions or upholstery in neutral tones or geometric patterns for a modern touch.
The pieces should be functional, but with a design that evokes the past without losing contemporary practicality. The simple lines of tables and chairs can be adorned with carved details or dark wood finishes, recalling medieval furniture.
- Colors and Shades
The modern medieval style is characterized by a palette of dark, earthy colors: grays, browns, burgundies, and olive greens, all in deep tones that evoke the sobriety of the Middle Ages. However, to avoid making the space feel too dark, it’s important to introduce lighter accents such as white, light gray, beige, or metallic tones like gold or silver to add contrast and brightness to the space.
Walls, rather than being entirely dark, can be neutral or even white, allowing furniture or decorative details, like tapestries or rugs, to provide the richer, more saturated tones.
- Decorative Details
One of the most exciting aspects of the modern medieval style is how to incorporate medieval decorative details into a modern context. This is where creativity can shine. Some traditional elements that can be merged with modern design include:
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Tapestries: Medieval tapestries, with their intricate motifs and historical scenes, can be reinterpreted with more simplified or modern patterns. Hung on a white or neutral wall, medieval-style tapestries can add warmth and color without overwhelming the space.
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Candelabras: Wrought iron or antique-style candelabras are perfect for adding drama but can also be mixed with modern LED lighting or more minimalist lamps.
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Coats of Arms and Heraldry: Decorative elements such as coats of arms, medieval flags, or symbolic representations can be transformed into artistic details or even modern illustrations on the wall.
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Glassware and Ceramics: Cut-glass wine glasses or ceramic dishware can bring a medieval air to the table, but opting for a cleaner and more contemporary design.
- Lighting: A Touch of Medieval Magic
Lighting is essential to balance the solemn atmosphere of medieval style with the brightness of modern design. Chandeliers or wrought iron candelabras can bring an elegant medieval touch while maintaining a fresh, contemporary feel. Additionally, warm, soft lighting helps create a cozy and sophisticated ambiance.
How to Integrate Modern Medieval Style Into Your Home
If you are drawn to the idea of a modern medieval style but don’t know where to start, here are some practical tips to incorporate these elements into your home:
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Start with furniture: Invest in a character piece, such as a wooden dining table or a large medieval-style bookshelf. These elements can be paired with more modern furniture, like minimalist chairs or sofas with clean lines.
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Choose a balanced color palette: Dark and deep colors should be balanced with neutral or metallic tones to prevent the space from becoming too gloomy. Light-colored walls allow the medieval details to shine without overwhelming the space.
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Add personality with details: Decorative elements such as tapestries, candelabras, and sculptures inspired by the Middle Ages can be a great starting point to create a space with character, while still feeling airy and modern.
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Focus on comfort: While the medieval style can be imposing, it’s crucial to incorporate modern elements of comfort. Soft rugs, cushions, and cozy textiles can balance out the coldness of the materials and bring warmth to the space.
In conclusion, modern medieval style in décor is a fascinating blend of the old and the new. It’s a style that invites reflection, a connection to the past while staying grounded in the present. By integrating medieval elements into a modern context, you can create spaces full of history, yet tailored to the needs and demands of the contemporary world. The key is to find a balance between the imposing and the functional, the rustic and the refined, to achieve a unique environment full of character.
If you’re looking for décor that combines historical richness with the comfort and freshness of current designs, the modern medieval style is definitely an option worth exploring.
