First coined in a HOUSE BEAUTIFUL article from 2019, the term generally references a return to classically traditional interiors.
“Grand” as a nod to new found appreciation for grandma’s old furniture and the “grand” nature of some traditional design in terms of scale and formality.
“Millennial” because the resurgence of this design style is currently traced to a desire on the part of millennials for more traditional decor. Depending on who you ask, a millennial is roughly defined as someone born between 1977 and 1995 - which makes them somewhere in their mid-twenties to early forties today. Why these folks are craving a return to tradition is an interesting discussion in and of itself. Theories posited are varied, but most point to a desire for a home experience that is cozy, layered and more visually stimulating than the neutral coastal or modern farmhouse interiors that have been all the rage over the last ten years.
To break it down stylistically, elements of grandmillennial design include:
Florals, patterns, checks applied to upholstery, curtain and accent fabrics
Wallpaper
Layered artwork
Blue and white
Mixed patterns
Rattan, bamboo & wicker
Chinoiserie
Skirted tables
Block print
Monograms
Ornate chandeliers
Collections (silver, china and crystal)
Pleated lampshades
Toile, chintz & plaid
Ruffles, pleats & fringe
Slipcovers
Brown wood furniture, like walnut, cherry & mahogany
Vintage brass
We get a good laugh around the studio when discussing this “trend,” since for most of us it’s the way we’ve been living and decorating forever. I suppose we’ve been calling the style “eclectic” as we tend to combine vintage and traditional elements with more transitional lighting and furniture frames. For me, it’s all about the mix and creating spaces that feel collected and layered - no matter what you call it. See a round up of some of our “grandmillennial” interiors below.
