What's Your Style: Traditional Style Interior Design

The next installation of our series, “What’s your Style”, is the traditional interior design style. Christian and Jessica share some of the key components of traditional style.

Traditional interior design is one of the most enduring and familiar styles we work with at Pinnacle. In this edition of our What’s Your Style series, I want to break down the essential elements that define traditional design so you can recognize it in your home and decide whether it fits your tastes and goals for a remodel.

How we help you find your style

Many clients tell us they are unsure which design style best reflects their preferences. To make the process easier, we use a simple two-step approach:

• We begin with a short survey to identify preferences and priorities.

• We follow up with a visual slideshow that shows different styles so you can see the look and feel of each option.

This approach lets you see examples rather than guessing from labels. If you want to sit down with our interior designer Jessica to review your preferences and a sample slideshow, we would be happy to help.

What makes a style truly traditional?

Traditional design is rooted in classic details, rich materials, and a timeless sense of balance. When clients ask what makes a space traditional, here are the features we point to most often.

Cabinetry

One of the clearest signals of traditional style is cabinetry detail. Traditional cabinets typically use raised panels instead of the flat panels found in more contemporary or modern kitchens. The center panel of each door is slightly raised, creating depth, shadow, and an immediate sense of formality and craftsmanship.

"Traditional to me, as far as cabinetry goes, are raised panels instead of a flat panel that you see a lot of."

Countertops and surfaces

Traditional countertops favor organic, varied patterns over the crisp white and gray veining that is common in contemporary looks. Think natural stone motifs with richer, warmer color variations—materials that read as layered and tactile rather than stark and monochrome.

Color palette and tones

Traditional spaces usually incorporate warmer tones. You will often see multiple tones working together across a room—wood, stone, and painted trim—all balanced to create a comfortable, anchored environment. Wood tones tend to be medium to darker, rather than the very light finishes that are trending in other styles.

Architectural detail and trim

Decorative moldings, trim profiles, and refined millwork are hallmarks of traditional design. Details such as pencil trim, crown molding, and classical proportions reinforce the style’s sense of permanence and refinement.

A real-world example: a traditional bathroom

We recently completed a bathroom remodel that illustrates many traditional characteristics. The space used natural stone—travertine—for flooring and wall surfaces, paired with classic trim elements. Pencil trim and detailed molding added the finishing touch, reinforcing the timeless aesthetic.

These material choices and details give the bathroom a calm, established feel that will age well over time.

Is traditional right for your remodel?

If you prefer a classic, layered, and rich in architectural detail, traditional design may be a great fit. It works especially well when you want a home to feel grounded, warm, and comfortably elegant.

If you have questions about whether tradition is the right direction for your project or would like to explore design options with our designers, please contact us. We would welcome the opportunity to review your preferences, share a curated slideshow, and help you plan a remodel that reflects your style.