Out with the old, in with the…..older? That seems to be the millennial generation’s take on interior design.
That’s right, those in their mid 20s to late 30s are trading in the more modern, minimalistic looks made popular by their slightly older counterparts for decor and furniture that give me a very “grandma” vibe.
This new style is appropriately known as – “grandmillennial.” Grandmillennial, also known as “granny chic,” is an eclectic combination of classic style, mixed with antiques, family heirlooms, and bold patterns. But since these are the children of the tech-savvy millennial generation, these designs are still equipped with state-of-the-art technology.
At first, I thought grandmillennial sounded terrible. Who wants to live in a room designed by Mark Zuckerberg and your great-aunt Ida? To be honest, I thought, what are the millennials up to now?
But after a little digging around online, I discovered this new design trend has some merits. This article in House Beautiful showcases some of the best things about grandmillennial style.
Via House Beautiful.
Think floral wallpaper, ruffles and chintz accent pieces. Needlepoint throw pillows are a nice touch, maybe some blue and white china, oh and don’t forget the doily! Some of it may be a little over the top, but if you hire a professional to help you decide what fits, I’m here for it!
Whether you want to buy all new pieces, shop estate sales or use pieces passed down through the family, the grandmillennial look can be achieved on almost any budget.
Show Off Those Heirlooms!
This style also gives you the opportunity to reuse and repurpose hand-me-downs or heirlooms from your parents, grandparents or other family members. That colored glassware your parents got as a wedding present in the 1970s will fit in just right in a grandmillennial design. Your grandmother’s china doesn’t have to sit in a box in the basement anymore – those plates will complement your dining room perfectly.
If you’re more of a “new is better than old” type shopper, never fear. Your design elements don’t all have to be vintage or retro to be considered grandmillennial.
As this style gains momentum, more designers are creating pieces that meet the grandmillennial aesthetic. We’ll continue to see a resurgence in floral upholstery, ornate mirrors and patterned tableware – the kinds of designs our grandmothers and great-grandmothers longed for 50-100 years ago.
Still, most grandmillennial lovers enjoy the organic unique quality of this design style. They love incorporating their family pieces and new purchases with thrift store and estate sale finds.
Leave it to the millennial generation to buck every decorating trend to create a design trend that screams individuality. What they’re doing is working and it is giving me all the nostalgic vibes!
A Nod Back to Simpler (But More Ornate) Times
The millennial generation, the first generation raised with cell phones and round-the-clock technology, seems intent on bringing back classic styles reminiscent of their grandparents and great-grandparents.
Perhaps they’re yearning for simpler times? Or maybe they can just better appreciate the beauty of these pieces that we were so accustomed to seeing? Either way, I’m so glad this generation is reviving these traditional looks and putting a modern spin on them.
I truly think this style is stunning and I believe it’s going to gain popularity. While it was refreshing to focus on the minimalist styles like mid-century modern and modern farmhouse for several years, it’s kind of nice to see a style that allows you to put all the things you love together and create a space full of things you find beauty in.
If you want to try this look in your own home, bust out those family heirlooms that you probably have tucked away somewhere. It’s fairly easy to add furniture and accent pieces to pretty much any existing decor style to transform a room into grandmillennial.
As always, JSB Designs is here to offer professional guidance to help you achieve the style you are dreaming of. Whether that means a major overhaul or just figuring out how to place those antique pieces to make the most out of your space, give us a call to schedule a consultation.
Click here to see more grandmillennial style ideas from bhg.com.