Home decor tips: 10 ways to integrate classical art into modern living spaces

By embracing some unconventional approaches, you can infuse your modern living space with the timeless charm of classical art while maintaining a fresh and innovative aesthetic. Classical Indian art is an ideal design choice as its timeless elegance can infuse your modern home with beauty and cultural history that cannot be replicated.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Aakanksha Singh, Creative Director at Bridge Bharat, suggested four tips to seamlessly blend tradition with contemporary style –
Choose a striking masterpiece such as a Pichwai, which is traditionally intended to be a focal point, as the centerpiece of your living room gives direction to your home.
Create a focal wall by covering it with a traditional wall art like Madhubani or Gond. These art forms are ancient forms of adorning walls which hold significance to this day.
Incorporate classical motifs into your furniture through upholstery, carvings, or inlays. A modern sofa with intricate Indian-inspired patterns can be a stunning conversation piece.
Lighting is an essential element of enhancing the artwork that you incorporate. Warm lighting accents bring out the inherent beauty of traditional Indian artforms

Mira Bai, 22×30 in Acrylic on Paper_Avinash Karn
Bringing his expertise to the same, Love Choudhary, Principal Architect at AND Studio, recommended –
Transform your space into thematic zones where classical art influences each area uniquely. For example, create a “Renaissance Lounge” with a classic bust paired with modern, abstract furniture and a sleek glass coffee table. By designing distinct zones, you bring a fresh perspective to how classical art interacts with contemporary design.
Use classical art to define functional areas in open-plan spaces. For instance, a tall, ornate column or a framed antique tapestry can serve as a visual divider between a living area and a dining space, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality.
Integrate technology with classical art by incorporating interactive elements. Imagine a classic painting with augmented reality features that reveal its history or artist’s insights when viewed through a smartphone. This fusion of classical art with modern tech creates a dynamic and engaging experience.
Challenge conventional design by mixing classical art with unconventional modern pieces. Hang a classical portrait next to a sleek, industrial metal sculpture or place a baroque mirror in front of a modern geometric-patterned wallpaper. These surprising combinations highlight the versatility and timelessness of classical art.
Incorporate classical motifs into modern furniture designs. Commission a contemporary sofa with upholstery featuring subtle classical patterns or create custom cabinetry with carved classical details. This approach infuses classical elegance into everyday items, blending seamlessly with modern functionality.
Opt for minimalist, modern frames for classical artworks. A simple, unobtrusive frame can help contemporary art stand out without competing with the classic piece itself, allowing the art’s intrinsic beauty to take center stage in a modern setting.