While minimalist design and crisp white interiors are the current design status quo, there is a new trend emerging. Or rather, a return to the traditional. Many millennials, known for unapologetically doing their own thing, are opting for a nostalgic design aesthetic inspired by a seemingly unusual source – their grandparents. But adding their own unique twist.
Dubbed ‘Grandmillennials’ – a hybrid grandma and millennial – by lifestyle and design press like the NY Post and House Beautiful, this new generation of Modern Traditionalists favors an opulent aesthetic where more is more, with a nod to the past and a dash of individualism.
Traditional design notes like floral wallpaper and matching window treatments, deep, rich hues like hunter green and navy blue, wicker, chintz and needlepoint at every turn, displays of classic blue-and-white porcelain Chinoiseries, and ruffles and embroidery aplenty are given new life with Millennials adding their own unique style cues. The old-meets-new style evokes cheerful comfort and even nostalgic memories of family holidays.
For those looking to embrace Modern Traditionalist style, North of NYC is flush with period homes that will provide the perfect backdrop. Read on to see which home fits your fancy.
45 Forest Ave | Rye, NY | $3,950,000
Set back from the road with a gracious courtyard drive, this 1930 brick Georgian is classic Rye. Featuring all the hallmarks of Modern Traditional style, the home includes a round entry with parquet and inlaid hardwood floor complimented by floral wallpaper, a light-filled living room with an ornate fireplace and a wood-paneled study with fireplace and walls of custom cabinetry. Listed by Marianna Glennon in our Rye Brokerage.
33 Lithgow Road | Millbrook, NY | $4,950,000
One of the most iconic estates of Millbrook with a colorful provenance dating from 1758, Lithgow Farm is incomparable. With over 200 acres of light woodlands, rolling pastures, and one of the most dramatic, far-reaching countryside views in the county, it’s centered by a period Grand Manor house that perfectly reflects the Modern Traditional aesthetic. A picture-perfect setting for entertaining, the Manor offers well-proportioned drawing rooms with 12′ ceilings, oversize fireplaces and detailed architectural appointments. Listed by John R. Friend in our Millbrook Brokerage.
14 Courseview Road | Bronxville, NY | $3,895,000
This true example of an English Country Manor home has great bones featuring original leaded glass windows, hardwood floors and beautifully proportioned rooms providing the perfect backdrop for Modern Traditionalists to make their mark. The living room with fireplace opens to a stone library/study with beautiful tall lead glass windows, while a mahogany-paneled family room with fireplace opens to a second terrace. Listed by Mariellen Sullivan Carpenter and Susan French in our Bronxville Brokerage.
41 North Broadway D | Irvington, NY | $2,999,999
Set in Matthiessen Park, a private neighborhood in the charming Rivertown Village of Irvington, this classic 1929 Georgian Brick Colonial has been lovingly renovated throughout. The perfect blend of old and new befitting Modern Traditional enthusiasts, the home features original wood floors, five fireplaces, a wood-paneled office, and a light-filled dining room with whimsical blush wallpaper. Listed by Josephine B. O’Leary-Weir in our Irvington Brokerage.
206 Cliff Avenue | Pelham, NY | $2,325,000
Every detail has been preserved and every luxury added in this Modern Traditionalist’s dream home. The meticulous 2001 restoration of this 1900 Queen Anne Victorian features unsurpassed architectural details throughout, including a magnificently restored oak-paneled foyer that has played host to numerous governors and other dignitaries in its 100+ year history. A wrap-around porch, two upper floor porches, a restored turret with third-floor tower room, restored woodwork, stained and leaded glass windows, pocket doors and seven working fireplaces are just the start of the home’s original details. Listed by Arthur L. Scinta in our Pelham Brokerage.
1386 Hillside Road | Fairfield, CT | $2,350,000
A new era of style, this 1834 estate offers the modern appeal of a renovated home. Featuring abundant windows and French doors that provide tons of natural light, plus high ceilings, an open floor plan and wide floorboards and millwork details that replicate and preserve legacy finishes and authentic details. Effortless style and multiple entertaining spaces for all ages make this the perfect Modern Traditional retreat. Listed by Linda Blackwell in our Riverside Brokerage.
10 Hickory Nut Hill Road | Carmel, NY | $559,000
This stately brick Colonial is rich in character, quality and detail. Perfectly appointed for the Modern Traditional style, the home boasts over 3,400 square feet of living spaces featuring extensive raised paneling, moldings, built-ins, French doors, and opulent design details including an indigo accented dining room and whimsical floral stair runners. Listed by Lynn Conway in our Somers Brokerage.
83 Somerstown Road | Ossining, NY | $2,000,000
This historic Westchester estate, once home to the Van Cortlandt family, features multiple dwelings ideal for Modern Traditionalists. Sited on 17.91 sprawling acres, the main house – a C. 1840 Colonial known as Rose Lodge – has been fully restored to its original grandeur and old-world heritage while seamlessly integrating every modern amenity. Grand formal rooms for entertaining, a chef’s eat-in-kitchen, tavern room with full wet bar and an elevator opening to an expansive master suite and home theater are just a few of the home’s old-meets-new amenities. Listed by Susan Strawgate Code in our Briarcliff Manor Brokerage.
Read more about the ‘Grandmillenial’ design trend on NY Post and House Beautiful.