Coined by Emma Bazilian of House Beautiful in 2019, the term Grandmillennial has been making headlines in the ever-evolving world of home decor ever since. Grandma chic, as it’s otherwise called, emerges as a captivating blend of nostalgia and modernity. This design movement, often seen as a response to the minimalistic and industrial trends dominating the early 21st century, celebrates the charm of traditional aesthetics infused with contemporary sensibilities. But what exactly defines this intriguing style? Let’s dive in.
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Now that I’ve covered the very basics of grandmillennial home decor, I invite you to explore this style further with me. Let’s take a look at the key characteristics of the grandmillennial decorating trend. Before I go into details, here’s a quick cheat sheet covering the main elements of granny chic:
Source: @leahonourinteriors (Instagram)
Grandmillennial design draws heavily from traditional decor elements, particularly those popular in the mid-20th century. Think chintz fabrics, floral patterns, and heirloom furniture pieces. This style reveres the past, often incorporating antiques and vintage finds that evoke a sense of history and continuity.
Source: Amal Kapen Interiors
Unlike the muted tones of modern minimalism, Grandmillennial spaces are vibrant and textured. Wallpaper, once deemed outdated, makes a strong comeback with bold prints and intricate designs.
Textiles play a crucial role, with needlepoint pillows, embroidered linens, and patterned drapes adding layers of visual interest. Rattan, bamboo, and wicker play a statement role too.
Source: Pinterest
The color scheme in a Grandmillennial space is warm and inviting. Soft pastels, such as blush pinks, baby blues, and mint greens, are common, but they are often paired with richer hues like:
This combination of light and dark creates a dynamic yet cozy atmosphere.
Popular wall colors in a Grandmillennial interior might include teal, lemon or light mustard, cobalt, soft jade, lavender, and sage green.
Source: Stacie Flinner
Furniture in Grandmillennial homes is a mix of inherited pieces and contemporary finds. Wingback chairs, skirted tables, and tufted sofas coexist with modern coffee tables and sleek lighting fixtures. This blend ensures that while the space feels traditional, it does not become dated.
Source: Pinterest
The Grandmillennial style is deeply personal. It encourages the display of family heirlooms, framed photographs, and collected treasures. This personalization makes each space unique, reflecting the owner’s individual history and tastes.
Source: The Glam Pad
Details matter a great deal in Grandmillennial interiors. From monogrammed napkins and decorative napkin rings to intricately carved moldings, the emphasis is on craftsmanship and quality. These details not only add to the aesthetic appeal but also emphasize the value placed on tradition and longevity.
In this next section, I will provide examples of the Grandmillennial decorating style focusing on the living room, bedroom, and dining room.
Source: The Glam Pad
A Grandmillennial living room will make you feel fancy, yet give you that homely, grandma-home feel.
It might feature:
Source: @ashleybhanley (Instagram)
In the grandma chic bedroom, a traditional tone is set by:
Source: Southern Hospitality
The dining room might boast:
Adopting the Grandmillennial style is about more than just aesthetic choices; it’s about creating a home that feels lived-in and loved. It’s a celebration of the past, woven seamlessly into the fabric of contemporary living. For those tired of the starkness of modern minimalism, the Grandmillennial style offers a refreshing, heartfelt alternative.
Source: Southern Hospitality Blog
In essence, the Grandmillennial style is a sophisticated nod to the past, tempered with the conveniences and preferences of the present. It is both a rebellion against the impersonal and a tribute to the warmth and character to the homes of our grandmas. Whether through a carefully curated collection of antiques or the thoughtful use of color and pattern, this style invites us to create spaces that are as meaningful as they are beautiful.
