Tips on Turning Your Home Into Your Own Palace!

Learn More About a Popular Home Design Trend

At least part of the world is a buzz with the Coronation of Charles the III this weekend at Westminster Abbey, but even if that is NOT on your radar, a particular design trend of 2023 could be.  This style could have you thinking about how to put a little bit of a royal flair into your very own palace, even if there is no crown on top of your head.

Sound the trumpets!  You have permission to embrace your inner royal through one of the design trends of 2023 - Royal Aspirations!

Design trends seem to fluctuate from one extreme to the other, and then back again.  First, something is in, then it is out, then it is back, and so on.  It is a wonder that anyone tries to keep up with the latest styles.  For instance, the interior design world seems to fluctuate greatly in shifting between minimalism and maximalism.  The term royal aspirations may conjure up visions of the latter, where a design could potentially border on the excessive, but the name would be deceiving.  Contrary to what you may think, the “Royal Aspiration” design trend isn’t all about excessiveness, in fact, it can be about subtle constraint, while exuding a sense of opulence and regality. The focus is to create a home space that is both visually stunning and at the same time, comfortable to live in.

So how do you teeter on the edge of being both opulent and having self-control in your decor? Follow along as we delve deeper into a guideline for creating your own regal room.

When you walk into a room that is trying to achieve a style inspired by royalty, it would make sense that your room should make you feel a certain kind of way. How would like others to describe it upon entering? How does the room make you feel?  Does it emulate any of these descriptive words?

• Romantic
• Luxurious
• Opulent
• Elegant
• Sophisticated
• Refined
• Sumptuous
• Classic
• Timeless
• Exquisite
• Luxurious

Building Materials and Paint Color

Use deep jewel tones such as emerald green, sapphire blue, and amethyst purple.  Rich, bold, and moody is the way to go.  A home designed in the royal aspiration style typically incorporates rich and luxurious materials, colors, and finishes:

Paint Colors: Rich, saturated colors are commonly used in a royal aspiration style home, including shades of deep red, burgundy, navy blue, emerald green, and gold. Neutral tones such as beige, cream, and ivory can also be used to balance the bold hues.

Building Materials: In a royal aspiration style home, building materials are often ornate and luxurious. Common materials include marble, granite, richly-stained hardwoods, and gilded finishes. Crown molding, wainscoting, and other decorative trim are also frequently used.

Upholstery: Upholstery materials such as velvet, silk, and brocade are common in a royal aspiration-style home. Richly patterned fabrics with metallic accents, such as gold threads, are also used.

Flooring: Marble or polished hardwood flooring is common in a royal aspiration style home. In some cases, the flooring may be embellished with intricate patterns or inlays.

Window Treatments: Window treatments such as drapes, curtains, and valances are often used in a royal aspiration-style home. These may be made of luxurious fabrics such as silk, velvet, or brocade, and may be embellished with tassels, fringes, or other decorative elements.

Overall, a home designed in the royal aspiration style incorporates rich materials and finishes that convey a sense of elegance, luxury, and opulence. The use of bold colors, intricate patterns, and ornate detailing are all characteristic of this style.

Fabrics

Fabrics are sumptuous with the use of velvet, silk, and brocade. Draperies are voluminous.   A home decorated in a royal aspiration style would typically feature luxurious and high-quality fabrics that exude elegance, sophistication, and regal charm. Here are some examples of fabrics you might find in such a home:

Velvet - a plush and soft fabric with a deep pile that is often used to upholster furniture and create drapery.

Brocade - a rich, woven fabric that features a raised pattern or design and is often used for drapery, upholstery, and bedding.

Silk - a smooth and lustrous fabric that exudes luxury and is often used for drapery, upholstery, bedding, and decorative accents.

Satin - a smooth and shiny fabric that is often used for bedding, decorative accents, and formal attire.

Lace - a delicate and intricate fabric that features an openwork design and is often used for drapery and decorative accents.

Furniture

Furnishings and decor pieces create a sense of grandeur, like the return of classic styles such as Victorian or Art Deco, updated with a modern twist. Pieces that feature rich wood, curved lines, and bold shapes could be popular in this trend. A home decorated in a royal aspiration style would typically feature luxurious and ornate furniture pieces that exude elegance, sophistication, and regal charm. Here are some examples of furniture that you might find in such a home:

• Four-poster or canopy bed with a grand headboard and footboard that is lavishly upholstered in rich fabrics like silk or velvet.
• Carved wooden armoire or wardrobe with intricate detailing and embellishments such as brass handles, mirrors, and ornate carvings.
• Tufted sofa or loveseat with plush cushions and high arms that are covered in a luxurious fabric like velvet or brocade.
• Set of armchairs with carved wooden frames, upholstered in rich fabrics, and featuring details such as nailhead trim and tassels.
• Large dining table made of solid wood with a highly polished finish and matching chairs with high backs, carved legs, and upholstered seats.

Lighting

A home decorated in a royal aspiration style would typically feature lighting fixtures that are grand, elegant, and ornate. The lighting should complement the overall decor and serve to create a warm and welcoming ambiance. Here are some examples of lighting fixtures you might see in such a home:

Chandeliers - grand, multi-tiered chandeliers made of crystal or glass are a popular choice for a royal aspiration-style home. They can be found in entryways, dining rooms, and living areas.

Wall Sconces - ornate, decorative wall sconces can be found in hallways, entryways, and living areas. They can be made of brass, gold, or silver and feature intricate details and designs.

Table Lamps - table lamps with decorative bases and shades can be found on side tables, nightstands, and desks. They can be made of crystal, glass, or metal and feature intricate designs.

Floor Lamps - tall, decorative floor lamps can be found in living areas and bedrooms. They can be made of brass, gold, or silver and feature intricate details and designs.

Candelabras - decorative candelabras made of crystal or metal can be found on dining tables and mantels. They add a touch of elegance and romance to any room.

Accessories

A home decorated in a royal aspiration style would typically feature accessories that are luxurious, ornate, and elegant. These accessories would serve to complement the overall decor and add a touch of sophistication and regal charm to the space. Here are some examples of accessories you might find in such a home:

Decorative Pillows - plush, decorative pillows made of luxurious fabrics like silk or velvet can be found on sofas, armchairs, and beds.

Wall Art - ornate, framed paintings or prints of classical artwork, landscapes, or portraits can be found hanging on walls in living areas, dining rooms, and bedrooms.

Decorative Vases - decorative vases made of crystal, porcelain, or other fine materials can be found on mantels, dining tables, and side tables.

Decorative Clocks - grand, ornate clocks made of brass or other fine materials can be found on mantels and side tables. They add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room.

Rugs - large, plush area rugs made of wool or other fine materials can be found in living areas, dining rooms, and bedrooms. They add a touch of luxury and warmth to any space.

If Royal Aspiration is not your cup of high tea, there is no need to worry, as interior design trends are subjective and constantly evolving. What is popular today may not necessarily be in style tomorrow. Ultimately, the most important thing when designing your home is to create a space that reflects your personal style and makes you feel comfortable and happy. That is what home should be about!