AS MENTIONED earlier, we’ve been searching for a coffee table that we both love. It hasn’t been an easy search, as I was looking for something with Carrara or Viola marble, but P was looking for a wood one. In the end, we discovered that there aren’t that many choices available after all, but in our searches, did come across all of this beautiful décor inspiration showcasing the warm minimalism style we talked about earlier in the week, juxtaposed with a little ornate austerity.
Ornate austerity, a term we’ve mentioned several times here before, when used in interior design may seem contradictory at first, as it combines two contrasting concepts.
Ornate refers to a decorative and elaborate style characterised by intricate details, embellishments, and luxurious elements. It often includes ornamental patterns, intricate carvings, elaborate moldings, and opulent materials such as silk, velvet, or brocade. Ornate design draws inspiration from historical periods like Baroque, Rococo, or Victorian, which are known for their lavishness and embellishments.
Austerity, on the other hand, implies simplicity, minimalism, and a more restrained approach to design. It focuses on clean lines, uncluttered spaces, and a reduction of excessive ornamentation. Austerity can be associated with contemporary or modern design styles, where the emphasis is on functionality, practicality, and a streamlined aesthetic.
When these two concepts are combined as an interior design style, ornate austerity creates a unique balance between opulence and simplicity, merging the grandeur and richness of ornate elements with the restraint and minimalism of austerity, resulting in a sophisticated and refined style. The key lies in carefully selecting ornate elements and incorporating them into a clean and uncluttered space, allowing them to stand out as focal points without overwhelming the overall design.
In an ornate austerity interior, you might find intricately carved furniture with simple and clean lines, a statement chandelier hanging in a minimally adorned room, or an ornate fireplace set against a backdrop of neutral colours and unadorned walls. The style is about creating a sense of elegance and luxury through select ornamental elements while maintaining an overall understated and balanced aesthetic. Here are a few of our favourite examples we’ve come across recently, while searching for the perfect coffee table…
