Creating the Perfect Old Money Living Room: A Luxury Designer’s Guide
Listen, I’ve been designing high-end interiors for over 15 years, and there’s something magical about walking into a room that whispers old money elegance.
Today, I’m sharing my insider secrets for creating that coveted old money aesthetic in your living room.
The Foundation: Essential Elements
First things first – let’s talk about what makes an old money living room truly stand out:
- Rich, muted color palette
- Quality antique furniture
- Classic architectural details
- Layered lighting
- Heirloom-quality accessories
The Color Palette
I always start with a sophisticated base:
- Deep navy blues
- Rich burgundy
- Forest green
- Warm gold accents
- Creamy whites for contrast
Pro tip: Avoid anything too bright or trendy. We want timeless, not trendy.
Furniture Selection: The Heart of Old Money Style
Here’s what I tell my clients about choosing furniture:
Must-Have Pieces:
- A well-worn leather Chesterfield sofa
- Wingback chairs in velvet or brocade
- Solid wood side tables (mahogany or walnut)
- An antique writing desk
- A substantial coffee table with character
The secret? Mix genuine antiques with high-quality reproductions. Not everything needs to be from the 18th century.
Lighting: Creating the Right Atmosphere
In my experience, lighting makes or breaks an old money room:
- Crystal chandeliers
- Brass table lamps with silk shades
- Picture lights for artwork
- Hidden uplighting for architectural features
Budget tip: Start with one statement piece (like that chandelier) and build around it.
Accessories That Tell a Story
This is where the magic happens:
- Vintage oil paintings
- Antique mirrors
- Family photographs in silver frames
- Leather-bound books
- Oriental rugs
Remember: Less is more. Each piece should look like it has a history.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Trust me, I’ve seen these mistakes plenty:
- Using too many new items
- Overcrowding the space
- Choosing trendy colors
- Skimping on quality
- Following rules too strictly
The Budget Breakdown
Let’s be real about costs:
Investment pieces ($1,000+):
- Main sofa
- Oriental rug
- Chandelier
- Antique cabinet
Mid-range items ($300-1000):
- Side chairs
- Coffee table
- Table lamps
- Artwork
Accessories ($50-300):
- Throw pillows
- Books
- Photo frames
- Small decorative items
Final Thoughts
Creating an old money living room isn’t about spending the most money – it’s about making thoughtful choices that reflect history and sophistication.
Remember, this style developed over generations. Take your time building your space. Each piece should feel intentional and tell part of your story.
Looking to create this look on a budget? Start with one quality piece and build around it slowly. Even the oldest money started somewhere.