Get The Look: International Affair

Bring a timeless, elegant appeal to your home with these design tips.

Though this refined style may be described as an “International Affair,” its roots are firmly planted in Europe—think of a classic Parisian apartment that exemplifies elegance in a way that’s both warm and worldly. It’s an old-world style that works just beautifully for our modern lives; a look that’s traditional yet timeless. Whether you’re a globetrotter or someone who satisfies their wanderlust through movies and books, designing a space with international flair is the perfect way to bring some global adventure home.

While modernism is all about paring down, traditional interior design embraces little flourishes throughout: detailed plasterwork and mouldings, engraved millwork, elaborately patterned rugs, sumptuous fabrics and even a tassel or two. Ornate staircase railings are essential to cultivate that feeling of grandness, and antique furniture—or modern pieces that take inspiration from traditional designs—made from rich woods are a must. Textiles should be heavy and luxurious; artwork and mirrors hang in gilded golden frames. Every element should be incorporated thoughtfully and celebrated for its beauty.

The Palette

Creams and whites are always an elegant choice for an internationally inspired space, particularly because they let rich wood accents take centre stage. Mahogany, walnut and cherry finishes are ideal for flooring, stair railing and furniture, and traditionally include strong detailing: ornately carved newel posts look just right in a traditional-style space, and intricate flooring patterns (like a herringbone floorboard layout) are the norm. Warm metals work extremely well for lighting and plumbing fixtures, whether brushed bronze or gold.

Though the palette for this regal look is elegantly restrained, a sparing introduction of jewel tones can work well. Deep plum, navy, dark teal and ruby red can add a little color without distracting.

Inspiring Spaces

Intricate moulding work in this chic, Parisian-inspired space decorates the wall and French doors, but the beautiful olive-wood credenza and herringbone-pattern floor are attention-grabbing in their own right.

A curving staircase, intricate moulding and furniture with European flair: this elegant home would make the perfect backdrop for a film about Parisian romance.

Wood, whites, creams and warm metallics are the perfect palette for an international look.

This stunning staircase railing is a showstopper, but other elements like a glamorous chandelier and marble flooring add to the elegant atmosphere.

Key Pemeces

When it comes to staircase railings, it’s all about embracing a little flourish—no minimalism allowed for this look. A railing with a basket-style decorative element, for example, calls to mind old-world craftsmanship, at a fraction of the cost.

Ornate carved details are a beautiful nod to culture and world heritage.

Ornamental-inspired spindles give your internationally inspired home another layer of beautiful detail.

A textured finish would work well for this look, but a simple spindle in Satin Bronze or Satin Rose Gold could add a little glitz into the mix.

	A little bit of glitz via a crystal-and-gold chandelier is perfectly in line with a classic European look. (Ivory and Dean.)
	Ornate furniture designs pop when paired with down-to-earth upholstery like rustic linen. (Restoration Hardware.)
	Gilded frames can be used for mirrors and artwork alike to add a hit of metallic glamor. (Howard Elliot.)

Rich wood furnishings are essential for the International Affair look; luxe marble surfaces are a great material to incorporate, too. (1st Dibs)

A French-style settee in sophisticated cream makes for an elegant living room focal point. (Ethan Allen.)

Is This the Look for You?

You don’t need to go to Europe to find a space with old-world charm: if you’re looking for a home with warmth and elegance, all it takes is a few key design pieces to turn your current space into an international affair. A regal staircase setup and some ornate moulding set the perfect scene for a timeless Euro-chic look.