This year, one of Pinterest’s predictions is the revival of Greek elements, particularly that of the Hellenistic era. What exactly is Hellenistic aesthetics? How does this differ from the traditional Greek design?
This article introduces you to the Hellenistic Revival interior design. This post briefly discusses the It will discuss the elements that make up the Hellenistic design. Additionally, it discusses tips on creating a more modern approach to Hellenistic design.
The Hellenistic Revival trend in interior design refers to the resurgence of design elements and aesthetics from the Hellenistic period of ancient Greece. This style is characterized by ornate details, Corinthian columns, and a rich color palette, often featuring terracotta, blues, and pale greens. The revival not only celebrates the grandeur of ancient Greek architecture but also infuses modern spaces with a sense of classical elegance.
Photo by Mark McCammon
The year 2023 has seen a significant shift towards more opulent and nostalgic design styles. The Hellenistic Revival, with its rich heritage and ornate aesthetics, resonates with modern-day homeowners and designers looking to create spaces that combine grandeur with a historical narrative. This resurgence is also influenced by the growing interest in Greco-Roman art and culture.
This kind of interior design is going back to the ancient times but still have to look modern. In a sense, you want to create a temple-like look to the room. A lot of the elements are ornately created, from the smaller accents up to statement pieces. But here is one caveat: you don’t need to tear down any part of your home just to achieve this look.
Corinthian columns, known for their ornate capitals, are a hallmark of Hellenistic design. Incorporating these into modern interiors can add a touch of elegance and historical significance. They can be used in entryways, as room dividers, or even as decorative elements in living spaces. Pairing them with modern furniture and décor creates a balanced and intriguing aesthetic.
The Hellenic Period occurred between the death of Alexander the Great in 323 BCE and the Egypt invasion of Rome in 30 BCE. It can be further extended for three centuries more until the transfer of the Roman capital to Constantinople by Constantine the Great. It was during this time that the Corinthian Order rose to popularity.
Wallpaper plays a vital role in setting the tone for a Hellenistic-themed room. Look for patterns that feature Greco-Roman motifs, like the Greek key or neoclassical-inspired designs. Color-wise, a palette of rich olive, gold, and pale green can create an opulent backdrop that complements the Hellenistic style.
In the realm of hospitality design, the Hellenistic Revival style is making a significant impact. Luxury hotels and restaurants are adopting this trend to offer guests an immersive experience that combines the best of nostalgic design with modern luxury. This trend is seen in the use of ornate architecture, whimsical busts, and beautiful columns, providing an impression of regality and exclusivity.
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Aphrodite is the Greek goddess of love and fertility. Her symbols included the dove, roses, myrtle, scallop, and apple. On a deeper level, Aphrodite is about self-love and care. It is no wonder that Gen Z has come to embrace this beauty and applied it to interior design.
As such, the Aphrodite aesthetic embodies the feminine beauty with soft floral elements and muted pastel colors.You can also take the traditional color interpretation of the Aphrodite aesthetic. The best way to know the colors would be by looking at the Grecian sunset, that means the following colors:
Photo by Max Vakhtbovych
These are small decorative statues you can add to your table or shelf that could act as your statement piece. But if your space allows it, you can have it on a bigger scale and put it out on the hallway. The modern Hellenistic design isn’t limited to busts and statues made of marble or plaster. Hellenistic sculpture is approached in many interesting ways. Two of these would be using a Roman bust for a planter for indoor plants or candles molded into Romana busts.
Photo by Jonathan Borba on Unsplash
There are many color combinations you can associate with the Hellenistic Revival design.
Blue is often related to Greek interior design. Afterall, Mykonos and Santorini are known for its cerulean seas. Aside from the blue and white color pairings, white can also be paired with gold. This is a royal color that can be gaudy when used too much so be careful when this to your designs.
Your homage to Greek interior design should include columns. These architectural elements are dominant during this era. Hence, this should be part of the features of your home. In the Hellenic era, these columns are commonly seen temples and stadiums. Whether you add this indoors or outdoors, columns can surely bring drama to the space they are provided.
Wood provides a great contrast to the whitenes that is prominent to the Greek design.
Olive trees are symbols of health and beauty during the Hellenistic period. It’s only apt that you add this feature when designing your Hellenistic Revival interior design look. This element is deeply rooted in many Grecian rituals and traditions.
For one, it is used as the award for the Olympic games. It is also used when both teams declare truce. You can use the olive branch, its fruit or just a leaf as an element for this interior design look.
The Hellenistic Revival often overlaps with neoclassical elements in contemporary home decor. This includes the use of symmetrical designs, classic art, and a color palette inspired by ancient Greece. Incorporating these elements can make a home feel like a sun-drenched day in the Mediterranean, filled with culture and history.
In this section, you are given tips on how to decorate your living space the Hellenistic Revival interior look. Read on to know more.
Photo by Hutomo Abrianto on Unsplash
Be more Grecian by incorporating blue into your color palette. You can make it as your main color or just accents to your Hellenistic Revival living room. Find a blue toile wallpaper to replace your old one or use this to cover an accent wall. This wall paper is best combined with white. You can also use blue on your rugs and artwork. Better yet, choose a blue sofa and combine it with the white walls.
Think marble structures, a large bathroom fit for a king and embellished with gold finish. Add small Cupid statues to complete the look.
One subtle way to incorporate the Greek style interior design look is to add intricate mouldings to your ceilings. You can match this with the beveled ceiling medallion but you have to make sure that both elements have a common denominator.
This is the time to celebrate the human body through Greek-inspired sculptures. You can also cut out an image of gods and goddesses and put them in frames. You can also repurpose your old Greeks busts to make them into jewelry and key holders and flower vases.
This screams Greek in all aspects.You can paint your wood panels and beams white for that refreshing look. Aside from the classic blue and white combination, you can tap into other colors associated with Greece, especially its landscape. That being said, you can paire white with greens, reds and purple as seen in the variety of flora present in Grecian meadows.
Your Hellenistic Revival look won’t be complete if you don’t add the Greek amphora as a design element. It can be a standalone piece or place two or more pieces of different sizes on the floor beside your sofa.. It could hold its own, by the way. Or you can balance it with a potted indoor plant.
You don’t have to remove the door and install a pair of Grecian column just to tap the Hellenistic Revival design. Look for shorter ones that you can use to put plants on or that Greek god bust, a clear nod to the Hellenistic period. The columns can also act as a bedside table. Match it with your four-poster best draped in chifon for a total look. Remember that you have three kinds of columns to use as inspiration: the Ionic, Doric and Corinthian. The Doric is the oldest and the simplest of the three. Next, the Ionic is a scroll design while the Corinthian is the most elaborate and ornate among the three.
This pattern can be found in traditional Grecian friezes and pottery. The Greek key pattern is said to be a representation of the Minotaur’s labyrinth. You can use on your window treatments, bathroom elements such the towels and rugs and as the print for your throwpillows.You can also use this pattern to upholstery some of your dining room chairs.
As you have by now noticed that Greek interior design is mostly curves and arches. The best way to apply this is on your furniture. Look for ornate furniture with floral elements, scallops, doves and the olive tree or leaf..
Wood can be used for flooring, stools and tables. To make it a great investment, make sure that your wood element becomes the center of attraction for a particular room. Combine this with a textured material such as wool throw blanket that you can put over your sofa. One traditional look you can apply is to use wooden tables and match this with mosaic tiles in white and blue combination.
Use lightweight fabrics for your draperies. You don’t want to overwhelm the eyes with too much opulence. A simple sheer fabric in neutral color would do the trick. Simple, airy and light fabric is reminiscent of Greek summers. Choose linen and chifon. You can also use these sheer fabrics to drape over your canopy bed.
To tap into the Hellenistic Revival interior design, you can use marble and limestone for your flooring. Wood can also be used as this is also a popular material to use in floors.
The Hellenistic Revival is a wonderful interior design style suited for those who want to cherish anything classical. Add modern touches to the traditional elements so you have an updated look.
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